In the realm of human experiences, some individuals embark on extraordinary journeys that intertwine the diverse threads of their lives into a tapestry of inspiration and empowerment. Neha Taparia, a practising Psychologist, and well-being coach, is one such remarkable soul. Her path, filled with unexpected turns, resilience, and passion, serves as a beacon of hope for those seeking to make a profound impact on others’ lives.
The Birth of a Vision
Neha’s journey commenced with a simple yet profound question: “What does it mean to understand the human mind and behavior deeply?” Armed with this curiosity, she embarked on a journey that would span over a decade and culminate in a career dedicated to the well-being of individuals and communities.
Educational Roots and Insights
Neha’s educational foundation in psychology, including a bachelor’s and master’s degree, laid the groundwork for her deep understanding of human behavior. Her journey into the intricate workings of the human mind was initially an unexpected detour, as she candidly admits. Yet, her innate curiosity led her to explore the mysteries of why people do what they do, how their childhood experiences shape them, and the complexities of their relationships.
As she delved deeper into the subject, Neha recognized that psychology was not just an academic pursuit but a profound lens through which she could better comprehend the world and the people around her. It was this newfound understanding that eventually ignited her passion for psychology and well-being.
A Career in Teaching: Nurturing Young Minds
Neha’s career journey initially led her to the teaching profession. She taught Organizational Psychology to students pursuing master’s degrees in psychology and worked closely with 11th and 12th-grade students. This period of her life revealed her natural affinity for working with young adults.
In her role as a teacher and mentor, Neha found that she effortlessly connected with the age group of young adults. They confided in her, seeking guidance and support. Her ability to empathize with their concerns and provide valuable insights confirmed her comfort in this role. The impact she had on these young minds left an indelible mark on her heart.
The Transition: From Teaching to Psychology Practioner
Life has a way of guiding us toward our true calling, even if it requires us to navigate uncharted waters. After a fulfilling teaching career, Neha found herself at a crossroads. It was a pivotal moment that would redefine her path.
Returning to Hyderabad, Neha made a conscious decision to step away from the teaching profession. She yearned for a fresh challenge, a chance to delve deeper into her passion for psychology and well-being. The decision was bold, and it marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life.
Skandhaa: A Dream Unveiled
The idea of Skandhaa was conceived during Neha’s sabbatical year, a period of introspection and self-discovery. She started by exploring the emotional regulation of children through career counseling. Slowly, Skandhaa’s wings expanded to encompass the well-being space in schools, colleges, and corporate settings, as well as the broader community.
Neha’s vision for Skandhaa was clear: to foster holistic development by working with all stakeholders around children. In educational institutions, this involved engaging teachers, management, and parents. For corporate
clients, the focus was on employees who balanced their professional roles with their responsibilities at home.
Challenges and Triumphs in Entrepreneurship
Starting Skandhaa was not without its challenges. One of the most significant hurdles Neha faced was navigating the crowded and, at times, unregulated field of psychology and counseling. In a landscape where individuals with minimal training often posed as experts, she was determined to uphold the integrity of her profession. This struggle is one shared by psychologists worldwide, striving to provide genuine support and guidance in a world where the lines between expertise and inexperience blur.
ImpacKul Well-being Initiatives
Through her work with Skandhaa, Neha has touched countless lives. She has conducted sessions for various stakeholders in schools, colleges, and corporations. Teachers who seek her guidance continue to reach out to her long after their sessions, a testament to the profound impact she has on their lives.
In corporate settings, her sessions resonate deeply, fostering a culture of well-being among employees. Beyond the content of her sessions, Neha emphasizes the importance of creating a comfortable space for open dialogue. It’s in these moments of vulnerability and shared understanding that transformation truly takes root.
Awards and Recognition: A Humble Validation
Neha’s journey has been punctuated by well-deserved recognition. Awards such as the EG Parameshwaran Award for topping her MA first year in 2008 and the Women Leadership Award in 2022 are more than accolades; they are validations of her unwavering commitment to the well-being of others. Yet, she remains grounded, understanding that there is always more work to be done and more lives to impact.
Balancing Act: Family and Passion
One of Neha’s most remarkable achievements is her ability to maintain a harmonious balance between her professional commitments and personal life. She attributes this balance to setting her priorities right. Family, for Neha, has always been at the forefront. She manages her sessions while considering her daughter’s schedule, ensuring that her family life remains uninterrupted.
Future Horizons
As Neha looks ahead, her vision extends to early childhood mindful education. She aims to establish her own setup dedicated to the holistic development of young children and adults through mindful education. Her dedication to this vision and her continuous work in the well-being space promise a future filled with impactful initiatives and transformative changes.
In a world where understanding the human psyche is both a science and an art, Neha Taparia stands as a beacon of hope and a guide to those navigating the labyrinth of emotions and relationships. Her journey from psychology to empowering lives is an inspiring testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and unwavering dedication to the well-being of all. Through Skandhaa and her various endeavors, she continues to shape a brighter, more emotionally intelligent future for individuals and communities alike.
The ImpacKul Canvas of Neha’s Work
Neha’s canvas of well-being extends across various domains, each stroke leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to experience her guidance. Her work encompasses a wide array of initiatives, each aimed at enriching lives and fostering emotional intelligence.
• Corporate Well-being Sessions: Neha’s contributions are not limited to academic settings; they reach into the corporate world. Her well-
being sessions for corporate professionals to create spaces for introspection and growth. In the often high-stress corporate environment, her sessions serve as vital tools for navigating the challenges of the modern workplace.
• Teacher Empowerment and Student Sessions: The foundation of a thriving society lies in its educators and their ability to inspire young minds. Neha recognizes this and conducts teacher empowerment sessions. These sessions provide teachers with the knowledge and emotional tools necessary to create a positive and nurturing educational environment. Additionally, student empowerment sessions offer invaluable guidance to the leaders of tomorrow, instilling in them the importance of emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and personal growth.
• Social and Emotional Intelligence Programs: Neha’s commitment to enhancing social and emotional intelligence is evident in her programs for schools and corporations. In schools, her initiatives focus on nurturing these crucial skills among students. These programs are instrumental in preparing young minds to navigate the complex web of emotions and relationships. In the corporate sphere, they contribute to building emotionally intelligent and cohesive teams.
• Career Counselling: Neha’s guidance extends to career counseling, a critical phase in an individual’s life. Her insights help young adults make informed decisions about their future, ensuring that their chosen paths align with their strengths, aspirations, and well-being.
Neha Taparia’s work is a testament to her holistic approach to well-being. Her diverse initiatives paint a picture of an individual wholly dedicated to the betterment of society through the nurturing of emotional intelligence, personal growth, and self-awareness. The canvas of her work continues to inspire and transform lives, one brushstroke at a time.
You can contact Neha on WhatsApp or via email at nehastaparia@gmail.com. Feel free to follow Neha on Instagram.
