Q+A with Atara Kaye Psychologist at Purple Rain Psychology

Q&A with Atara Kaye, Psychologist and Founder of Purple Rain Psychology and Danielle Samama

1. What inspired you to choose psychology as a career path, and what continues to motivate you in your work today?

I initially aspired to work in Centrelink. One day, while submitting forms for youth allowance, I asked the customer service representative how I could work there. He suggested pursuing a qualification in community service. Consequently, I enrolled in a diploma in Community Services. During my studies, a wonderful teacher named Myra took an interest in me. Despite having only completed Year 10, she saw my potential and encouraged me to pursue university studies.

Although I doubted my ability to study psychology, given my limited academic background, I completed my diploma and enrolled at UNSW. Not only did I manage to gain entry into a Bachelor of Psychology program, but I also eventually completed a Master's in Professional Psychology at UNE. The journey was challenging, requiring me to catch up on the English, maths, and science I missed in high school as a mature aged student and mother of two children. However, my passion for psychology and thirst for knowledge kept me going.

Initially, I pursued psychology to understand myself better, but I also found great fulfilment in helping others lead more meaningful lives. At Purple Rain Psychology, I am motivated to support clients with care, compassion, and expertise. It is both a significant responsibility and a privilege to assist individuals at their lowest points, knowing that our work together can contribute to making a difference in improving people’s lives.

2. How do you ensure that your therapy sessions provide a safe and non-judgmental space for your clients?

I firmly believe in maintaining a non-judgmental approach, both in life and in my practice. I treat everyone as equals, recognising that no one is inherently better than another. As the saying goes, "from the dust you have come and to dust you shall return."

Creating a safe therapeutic space, both physically and psychologically, is essential for fostering vulnerability and growth. My approach is holistic, ensuring clients feel comfortable and secure. My therapy rooms are aesthetically pleasing, comfortable, soundproof, and physically safe. I adopt a holistic, non-judgmental, confidential, person-centred, strengths-based, and evidence-based approach. Throughout sessions, I check in with clients to ensure their comfort and safety.

3. What is one common misconception about therapy or mental health that you wish more people understood?

A common misconception is that therapists can read minds. While it might seem like a cool superpower, it's simply not true. Psychological training equips psychologists with excellent observational skills. We make educated guesses based on knowledge, statistics, and experience, which are often accurate but not infallible. Therefore, I consistently check in with clients to confirm the accuracy of my observations.

My role as a psychologist is to help clients enhance their observation skills and understanding of human behaviour. In a way, I aim to share this 'mind-reading' ability with them, empowering them to navigate their lives more effectively.

4. Before meeting you, what is something important that you would like your clients to know about your approach to therapy?

My approach is person-centred, individualised, and strengths-based. I do not tell clients what to do or reprimand them for their actions. Instead, I offer support, encouragement, and skills training. I do not claim to cure or 'fix' anyone.

I believe people achieve the best outcomes when they are the driver of their recovery journey. Therapy is most effective when clients are motivated to learn new skills and invest effort into their personal growth. My goal is to empower clients to become their own therapists, equipping them with the tools they need to lead fulfilling lives.

5. What is one self-care practice that you personally find most effective and would recommend to others?

I find mindfulness or awareness practice very helpful. Being aware of one's reality, body, thoughts, feelings, and behaviours enables more effective responses to current situations.

Practising these skills during calm moments helps create neural connections that can be utilised during stressful times. For instance, practising mindfulness while drinking coffee in the morning—savouring the flavours, noticing sensations, and being present—can help me stay composed and solve problems more effectively when faced with challenges, such as managing my children's evening chaos.

6. Finally, could you share a fun fact about yourself that clients might find interesting or surprising?

I grew up in a large Hasidic household in Sydney, with eight siblings, and now a Kelpie brother. Growing up in such a dynamic and sometimes chaotic environment taught me valuable communication, problem-solving, and social skills. My role as a family mediator and support person for my siblings, each with unique personalities, has profoundly shaped my ability to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics.