Paonam Thoibi, founder of The Collective Trust, is an RCI licenced clinical psychologist whose work merges mental health with social justice. Her practice focuses on survivors of torture, children in conflict with the law, and LGBTQIA+ individuals, offering queer-affirmative, trauma-informed care. Listed by Varta Trust as an affirmative therapist, Thoibi collaborates with human rights organizations like Matai Society, addressing intergenerational trauma in Manipur’s conflict-affected regions. Trained in psychosocial support by the Peacebuilding and Development Institute in Sri Lanka, she has facilitated rehabilitation, psychosocial support and self care sessions in Pattani, Thailand, supporting survivors of violence. Thoibi’s affiliations with the Centre for Organisation and Research and Education enhance her trauma-responsive initiatives in Northeast India. Her writings and talks on mental health, violence, and resistance amplify marginalized voices. Viewing herself as an evolved recipient of care, Thoibi fosters collective healing through ethical, inclusive practices. Her leadership drives our mission to make mental health accessible, empowering communities to heal and resist.

Nganthoi Tongbram, a licensed Clinical Psychologist, is a cornerstone of The Collective Trust, focusing on trauma recovery, addiction, and men’s mental health. His expertise stems from training at Mental Health Action Trust (MHAT) in Kerala and The Banyan’s BALM in Tamil Nadu, shaping his community-driven approach. Nganthoi’s career began at SOCH Foundation in Delhi, designing remedial programs for children with learning disabilities. During COVID-19, he provided crisis support, and his internships at addiction centers like Desire Home fueled his passion for recovery. Specializing in Trauma Incident Reduction and Mindfulness in Recovery, he offers the same through TALÁ, enhancing access for underserved communities. Nganthoi co-facilitates Wakhong, evolving it from a men’s support group into an inclusive platform for emotional well-being. His commitment to creating grounded, healing spaces aligns with our goal of equitable care. Nganthoi’s work, rooted in empathy and cultural responsiveness, empowers individuals and strengthens community resilience in Manipur’s complex landscape.

Damini Laitonjam, an RCI-registered Consultant Clinical Psychologist, brings extensive expertise to The Collective Trust. Based at MGMIHS and MGM New Bombay Hospital, she specializes in individual, couple, and family therapy, psychological assessments, and caregiver support. Damini contributes to multidisciplinary teams, including the Child Guidance Clinic and Tobacco Cessation Clinic, and engages in community outreach at primary health centers. Holding an M.Phil in Clinical Psychology and pursuing a Ph.D., she has authored book chapters, earned Best Paper Awards, and lectures on addiction and therapies. Her advanced training in CBT, DBT, Clinical Hypnotherapy, and Family Counselling informs her evidence-based approach. Damini coordinated the ‘I Am Human’ workshop with the Eva Lustigova–Ernest Lustig Foundation and led ‘Trauma Solutions’ for the Bombay Psychiatric Society. Her work creates safe, empathetic spaces where clients feel seen, fostering healing through tailored care. Damini’s dedication to accessible mental health strengthens our mission in Manipur.

Haorongbam Iris Chanu, a licensed Clinical Psychologist and Ph.D. scholar, enhances The Collective Trust with her focus on psychosocial clinical studies. Her work explores the social, emotional, and cultural dimensions of mental health, grounded in psychotherapeutic modalities. During COVID-19, Iris provided tele-counseling, and in 2023, she volunteered in psychosocial support for internally displaced persons in Manipur, addressing collective trauma. Her culturally responsive, trauma-informed approach creates spaces where clients can be authentic. Iris’s academic research delves into intersectionality, examining how lived experiences shape well-being. An introvert, she finds solace in books and quiet conversations, believing healing begins in unjudged spaces. Her commitment to community-oriented care and gentle, reflective practice aligns with our mission. Iris’s work fosters stillness and connection, empowering individuals and communities to navigate Manipur’s complex mental health landscape with dignity and resilience.

Athokpam Nidhi Bala, an RCI-licensed Clinical Psychologist and Ph.D. scholar, brings a neurodiversity-affirming lens to The Collective Trust. Specializing in adult ADHD and mental health advocacy, her practice is shaped by experiences at The Banyan’s Emergency Care and Rescue Center in Tamil Nadu and the Cancer Institute in Chennai, where she explored psycho-oncology. During COVID-19, she answered distress calls, and her work with SASO in Manipur deepened her commitment to community-based care. Pursuing doctoral research on adult ADHD, Nidhi presents papers on autism and transgender coping mechanisms, reflecting her focus on identity and resilience. Her therapy, research, and writing emphasize understanding and dignity, creating spaces where clients feel heard. Nidhi’s dedication to inclusive support aligns with our mission to address Manipur’s mental health crisis. Her compassionate approach and academic rigor empower individuals, fostering healing and advocacy for neurodiverse and marginalized communities.

Chanu Konsam, an RCI-licensed Clinical Psychologist, enriches The Collective Trust with her passion for personality dynamics and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Holding a Master’s in Applied Psychology, an M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology, and a Diploma in Guidance Counseling, she brings a robust academic foundation. Chanu served as Project Psychologist for NIMHANS’ ICMR-funded “Neurodevelopmental Disorders” initiative, honing her expertise in complex behavioral issues. Her interest in forensic psychology adds depth to her practice, exploring human behavior’s intricacies. Currently, she works in academia, advocating for psychology’s integration into education to inspire future generations. Chanu’s INFJ personality drives her empathetic, reflective approach, creating therapeutic spaces where clients feel understood. Her involvement in community-driven mental health initiatives in Manipur, including support for marginalized groups, aligns with our mission. Chanu’s dedication to culturally responsive care and her vision for inclusive education make her a vital force in breaking mental health barriers and fostering resilience.