Dr Tani Khara

Psychotherapist & Lecturer/Researcher

"I am a psychotherapist, and also a researcher specialising in human–animal relationships and their impact on mental wellbeing"

About Me

I’m a psychotherapist and academic, with a focus on how human–animal relationships influence mental health and wellbeing.

My 20-year career began in consumer psychology, working in different parts of the world with large corporations. My path later led me into the field of mental health.

As a therapist, I offer a steady, compassionate space for my clients where my clients can unpack the emotional weight they’ve been carrying - be it anxiety, chronic stress, depression or the lingering impact of trauma. We trace how these experiences are often woven through the quieter toll of prolonged exposure to suffering - whether in personal life or at work.

I also work with clients navigating ADHD, autism, and other forms of neurodiversity - often misunderstood or overlooked in both personal and workplace settings.

I work in an integrative way, drawing on a range of evidence-based approaches to meet the unique needs of each individual.

For certain client presentations, I may use a more structured approach incorporating modalities such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT).

Where a more exploratory and fluid process is helpful for other types of clients, I use Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) and Narrative Therapy approaches to support deeper emotional processing and meaning-making.

I also incorporate spiritual and existential perspectives, honouring the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit in each client's experience.

My approach is grounded in presence, curiosity and respect, allowing room for deep exploration, healing and meaningful change.

I hold a PhD, undertaken at UTS, where my research focused on human–animal bonds. I am also currently completing a Master’s in Counselling and Psychotherapy at Monash University.

A significant part of my work, as a therapist, also involves supporting clients who work in animal care and advocacy. These are people who carry immense compassion - and, at times, equally immense emotional burdens.

I bring warmth and care - and I aim to create an inviting, safe space for deep exploration, healing and growth.

What is a Psychotherapist?

A psychotherapist is a mental health professional who uses therapeutic techniques to help individuals explore and resolve emotional difficulties and psychological distress.

Qualifications

Degree:

PhD (UTS) - Social Psychology & Sociology
Masters in Counselling & Psychotherapy (Monash University) - Ongoing.

Academic Research

I research and publish in the domain of psychosocial issues mental health and human-animal interactions at UTS.

Expertise and Interests

Areas of Specialty

Stress & Anxiety - Chronic worry, generalised anxiety, panic, and the pressures of high-responsibility roles.
Depression - Encompassing persistent low mood, emotional numbness, and feelings of hopelessness or disconnection.
Trauma - Including complex trauma, developmental trauma, attachment wounds, and experiences of violence or violation.
Grief, Loss & Bereavement - Including death-related grief, anticipatory grief, ambiguous loss, and mourning tied to identity shifts or major transitions.
Workplace Issues - Such as burnout, chronic stress, workplace bullying, low motivation, and navigating complex team dynamics or leadership roles.
Existential Concerns & Life Meaning - Including end-of-life reflection, spiritual crises, and the search for purpose, belonging, or direction.