Dr. Hvovi Bhagwagar (PhD)

Dr. Hvovi Bhagwagar is a Clinical Psychologist and Psychotherapist with 25 years of experience, and the founder of Manashni (meaning “Good Thoughts” in Persian), a private trauma-informed practice based at Gateway Plaza, Powai, Mumbai. Her clinical work is grounded in a trauma-informed, compassionate approach that supports adults, adolescents, and families in managing challenges related to anxiety, complex trauma, dissociative symptoms, personality disorders, and the aftereffects of abuse and neglect.Dr. Bhagwagar holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from SNDT University and a Ph.D. in Social Sciences from Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai. Her journey spans hospital settings, NGOs, and academia, she previously served as Head of the Department of Psychology at Sweekaar Rehabilitation Institute, Hyderabad. Since 2002, her focus has been on building a dedicated trauma-oriented private practice.Trained in EMDR Therapy through EMDR-HAP (USA), she works extensively with trauma survivors and also offers clinical consultation for complex trauma, dissociation, and personality disorders. She has initiated EMDR supervision groups in India and teaches trauma-focused interventions as visiting faculty at leading academic institutions.In addition to clinical and academic work, Dr. Bhagwagar is a strong advocate for mental health literacy and media engagement. She has contributed articles and interviews to platforms such as FM Radio Channels, Mumbai Mirror, MidDay, Times of India, Hindustan Times, Femina, among a few, with the intention to make psychological concepts accessible to the public.She has presented her work on trauma recovery and therapist well-being at both national and international conferences. A Founding Board Member of the Mental Health Support Foundation (MHSF), she remains dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive, and trauma-sensitive mental health ecosystem.