Nalini Channapatna Prasanna

MSW, LCSW

My name is Nalini Channapatna Prasanna, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I am a bilingual therapist who speaks English and Kannada. As an Indian living in the United States, I bring a strong understanding of cultural context and identity into my work. I provide therapy for adults experiencing anxiety, perfectionism, chronic stress, and burnout particularly when these patterns are rooted in early stress or trauma. My practice is located in Reno, Nevada, where I offer in-person therapy as well as online therapy for clients throughout Nevada.

Starting Mindspace Psychotherapy LLC has been a lifelong aspiration. I have always dreamed of providing thoughtful, high-quality mental health care to the community, and this vision became a reality in December 2020. At Mindspace Psychotherapy LLC, you will find a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate space—one where you are respected, validated, and supported throughout your mental health journey.

I was born and raised in South India, and my interest in the field of mental health developed during my adolescent years. Growing up in a culture where mental health concerns were often overlooked or stigmatized shaped my desire to pursue this work. These experiences continue to inform my trauma-informed, culturally sensitive approach to therapy. At heart, I am a mental wellness advocate, committed to reducing stigma and supporting healing—one person at a time.

When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our two dogs. I also enjoy experiencing different cultures, running, hiking, biking, rock painting, reading, embroidering, and spending time with family and friends.

Qualifications

  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) (7115-C)

  • Master's in Social Work (MSW), University of Nevada, Reno

  • Bachelor's in Social Work (BSW) with high distinction, University of Nevada, Reno

Work experience

My most recent and long-term employment has been with the State of Nevada-Division of Public and Behavioral Health (DPBH) at the community outpatient mental health clinic in Carson City, NV. I was hired as a full-time clinical resident and continued as a fully Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW.) During my 7 years of employment at the clinic as a psychotherapist, I treated clients with Serious Mental Illness (SMI) and substance and alcohol issues. I enjoyed working with clients of all ages and cherished the opportunity to work with a multidisciplinary treatment team. I had the opportunity to complete my internships at the Child Protective Services (CPS) in Washoe county and the Veterans Affairs Sierra Nevada Health Care System in Reno, NV during my undergraduate and graduate programs respectively.

I am able to provide weekly clinical supervision for clinical social work interns who are pursuing their LCSW. If interested, please contact me to schedule a meeting.

Professional training

Trained in:

  • Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT)

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)

  • Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

  • Mindfulness Practices

  • Motivational Interview (MI)

  • Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE)

  • Somatic & Nervous System–Informed Training

  • Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

Lola, office mascot

Lola is an 11-year-old border collie and lab mix. She is the best therapist in the world. She is a gentle and cheerful girl who loves spicy Indian food, doggie treats and is always eager for table scraps. She is very loving and has a special spot in her heart for her big brother Wali and her dad. She outsmarts her parents by predicting their moves. She enjoys the outdoors and leads life on her terms. Lola will be with us during our sessions; however, if you feel uncomfortable by her presence then please feel free to let me know in advance.

Book an appointment today

Complimentary 15-minute phone consultation to find out how I can help you create the life you desire.