Sasha Pather

Sasha Talia Pather, the founder of Sasha Talia Counselling, runs a private mental health practice based in Durban. Her services are provided through online platforms as well as in-person consultations, making mental health support accessible to a wide range of clients. “It’s not just about counselling,” she explains, “it’s about meeting people where they are and providing the help they need.”

With a background rich in both education and volunteer work, Sasha’s experience extends beyond the typical counselling environment. She holds degrees in psychology, social work, and theology, which have shaped her holistic approach to mental health. “My involvement in ministry has definitely influenced my practice,” she acknowledges, “because I believe that healing should address the mind, body, and spirit.”

Sasha’s exposure to community work began at the age of nineteen. She was involved with local organisations and government bodies, working at the grassroots level to provide services in communities facing mental health challenges. “I grew up in these communities,” she explains, “so I know first-hand the struggles that people face and the impact that mental health issues can have.”

From an early age, Sasha took initiative by founding a community-based organisation to deliver essential services. “I started by going into communities to feed, clothe, and provide mental health support to those who couldn’t afford it,” she says. Her efforts quickly expanded as she connected with others who shared her vision for community empowerment. “It just made sense to me to make this my career,” she adds, “so I took that step and officially launched my private practice.”

One of the primary goals for Sasha is to shift how people perceive mental health. “Mental health is often seen as a luxury especially in different cultural contexts or among people who have not been exposed to the idea that mental well-being is as crucial as physical health.” She believes that addressing mental health problems can have an impact on other social issues, such as crime and safety. “If you solve a mental health issue,” she insists, “you’re not just helping one person; you’re contributing to the well-being of an entire community.”

“People are sometimes hesitant to discuss mental health because it’s still considered a foreign concept or taboo in many areas. My aim is to normalise these conversations. We need to make it OK to talk about mental health, to seek help, and to believe that things can get better.”

Sasha has gained recognition through various media platforms such as SABC’s Lotus FM, and her work has been featured in major publications. “People noticed my work because the need for mental health services is so great,” she states. “Being invited onto platforms like radio and TV wasn’t something I pursued; it happened because people saw the impact of what we were doing.” Despite these achievements, Sasha remains focused on the mission rather than the accolades. “The recognition is nice,” she concedes, “but what really matters are the changes we’re able to make in people’s lives.”

Overcoming Adversity
Sasha’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. “I’ve faced rejection, financial struggles, and doors shutting in my face,” she admits. “As a woman, I’ve also dealt with violations and discrimination.” However, she attributes her resilience to the strength of the women who raised her. “I was brought up by my grandmother and two aunts,” she shares, “and all I saw was women making things happen, even without a male figure around. They showed me that you could stand on your own, have a voice, and achieve what you set your mind to.”

Sasha believes in the power of self-definition. “You don’t have to let your circumstances decide who you are,” she says. “If you’re called a victim, you don’t have to accept that label. You can choose how you define yourself.” This mindset has guided her through the adversity she’s encountered. “Whenever there was no door, I just created one,” she adds. “If there was no table, I built one.”

The importance of resilience is a key message Sasha shares, especially with young women. “I tell them to figure out who they are,” she says. “If you know your worth, you won’t need external validation or seek it in the wrong places. As long as you’re following your purpose and doing what makes you happy, that’s what truly matters.”

Sasha’s dream is to expand her impact even further. “I want to open a mental health centre in Durban,” she reveals, “focusing on wellness, addiction recovery, abuse support, and women’s empowerment.” The envisioned centre would be staffed by a team of counsellors dedicated to addressing the various needs of the community. “We want to be known for changing lives,” she states, “for being a place where people can come, regardless of their problems, and find hope.”

Nature and Well-Being
Outside of her counselling work, Sasha finds solace in nature. “I love the outdoors,” she says. “Being in natural settings is calming and therapeutic for me.” She also enjoys spending time with loved ones, whether it’s relaxing at home or enjoying a day at the mall. “It’s important to find activities that relax and ground you,” she adds. “For me, it’s all about balance and ensuring that I’m taking care of myself while taking care of others.”

Sasha acknowledges the ongoing nature of her mission. “Mental health is not something you solve overnight,” she asserts. “It’s an ongoing process of creating awareness, breaking down barriers, and supporting people through their healing. The biggest achievements aren’t the awards or recognitions,” she concludes. “They’re the moments when someone tells you, ‘You helped me save my life.’ Those are priceless.”

In her view, the work of normalising mental health must continue. “We can all play a part,” she says, “whether it’s through professional practice or simply by being open to discussing mental health.” Sasha’s commitment is clear: “It starts with all of us, recognising the importance of mental well-being and making it a priority.