Welcome to Affirming Paths

I’m really glad you’re here.

I’m a first-generation Canadian South Asian woman (she/her), and my path into this work has been shaped by lived experience as much as by formal training. Growing up in an immigrant family meant navigating between cultures, expectations, and systems that were not designed for us. I carried responsibilities early—such as translating language and supporting my parents under financial and emotional strain. I learned what it meant to adapt, to hold complexity, and to find resilience in the spaces where support was limited. That inspired a commitment to nurture resilience in others, with deep respect for the many different paths each of us walks.

I began my professional journey in 2004, completing my Bachelor’s degree and later my Master of Social Work at the University of British Columbia in 2007, with a focus on disability studies and mental health. For two decades, my work has been grounded in trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, culturally responsive, and inclusive care. I have spent much of my career supporting neurodivergent individuals and families of children and youth with complex medical and developmental needs. It is a privilege to walk alongside clients on their unique journeys, and I warmly welcome you to explore the support available here. -Veena

MISSION

Creating an inclusive space where every voice is heard, valued and empowered toward positive growth.

EXPERIENCE:

Veena brings 20 years of experience supporting children, youth, families, and individuals across diverse settings. Her work includes the Ministry of Education’s autism outreach program, BC Children’s Hospital and Sunny Hill Health Centre (PHSA), as well as earlier experience with the Office of Children and Youth with Support Needs in Vancouver and Employee & Family Assistance counselling.

REGISTRATION & MEMBERSHIPS

• Registered Social Worker - BC College of Social Workers (#10099)

• Member of the BC Association of Social Workers (#2001152)

EDUCATION & TRAINING

Master of Social Work (Honours) – University of British Columbia, 2007

Certifications & Specialized Training

• Anti-Indigenous Racism Response Training Certificate

• Neurodiversity Specialist Certificate

• PATH-Planning Alternative Tomorrows with Hope Certificate (Spectrum Learning)

• Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

• Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS)

• Conflict Resolution

• Solution Based Brief Therapy(SFBT)

• Motivational Interviewing (MI)