Welcome to Aruvadai
Mental health is a journey and Aruvadai a supportive space for healing, growth, and transformation. Inspired by the Tamil word for "Harvest," symbolizing the essence of reaping the rewards of nurtured potential and transformed lives.
We offer counselling, therapy, support groups, internships, training programs and a lot more to promote healing and resilience whilst ensuring that professional mental health support is accessible to everyone
Located in the vibrant heart of Old Washermanpet, Chennai, Aruvadai Psychological Support Services started in the year 2018, has grown from a place of limited mental health awareness into a thriving, stigma-free space for healing, growth, and accessible support, deeply aligning with the concept of harvest. Founded by psychologist Mridhula, MSc, M.Phil.
Mridhula's journey toward founding Aruvadai was driven by an unwavering dedication to making a positive difference. Before launching the center, she worked closely with Rotaract clubs in Chennai, sowing the seeds of psychological support in the minds of over a thousand children, guiding them through the challenges of Child Sexual Abuse. This early cultivation of trust and understanding formed the bedrock for the flourishing initiative that would later become Aruvadai.
Aruvadai's first mission was rooted in compassion, as it sought to provide psychological support to children and families living with HIV. Like skilled farmers tending to their crops, Aruvadai nurtured hope and healing amidst the struggles of illness and societal stigma.
Yet, just as unpredictable weather can affect a harvest, the COVID-19 pandemic brought unforeseen challenges to the world. In the face of these obstacles, Aruvadai displayed remarkable resilience, adapting to the shifting landscape like experienced cultivators. Embracing digital platforms such as Zoom, Google Meet, and social media tools like Instagram, we seamlessly transplanted our nurturing approach into the virtual world. Just as dedicated farmers care for their crops no matter the season, Aruvadai continued to promote growth and connection during these turbulent times.
The center's impact soon reached beyond local borders, much like seeds carried by the wind to distant places. Through partnerships with international organizations, Aruvadai built a network that enriched their collective knowledge and wisdom, similar to how various crops thrive in a balanced ecosystem. With over 100 regular clients benefiting from their therapy services, Aruvadai blossomed into a thriving hub of well-being.
Our book Ulaviyal was written by Arungokul & Vivek Bharathi With the help of Team Aruvadai and launched in September 2022.