Dr Arun Jha is a British psychiatrist of Nepalese origin with over four decades of experience in men...

Dr Arun Jha is a British psychiatrist of Nepalese origin with over four decades of experience in mental health care. He began his medical journey at the prestigious Institute of Medicine in Nepal, where he worked for four years, followed by a year at Lagankhel Mental Hospital. In 1986, he moved to the United Kingdom, where he continued to advance his career in psychiatry. Passionate about improving mental health care globally, Dr Jha has maintained a strong connection with Nepal. Since 2006, he has been actively involved in various mental health initiatives across the country. Notably, after the devastating 2015 earthquake, he returned to Nepal to train 50 psychologists in psychological therapies for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), helping to strengthen the nation’s mental health response. In November 2025, Dr Jha is set to return to Nepal with a pioneering new treatment for depression, continuing his lifelong commitment to mental health innovation and international collaboration.

Mr Prabhat Kiran Pradhan is a seasoned mental health social worker and one of the three core members...

Mr Prabhat Kiran Pradhan is a seasoned mental health social worker and one of the three core members of the Namaste Mindfulness Team. With deep expertise in the landscape of mental health challenges in Nepal, Mr Pradhan brings decades of hands-on experience and compassionate service. Prior to meeting Dr Arun Jha in 2006, he worked at the Maryknoll Rehabilitation Centre, supporting individuals in recovery. Since then, he has collaborated closely with Dr Jha on numerous mental health initiatives, including the South Asia Forum on Mental Health, Mental Health First Aid Nepal, Memory First Aid, the PTSD Project, and mindfulness-based relapse prevention programs for drug and alcohol addiction. His most recent focus is the Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) initiative, marking the latest chapter in his continued dedication to mental wellness in Nepal.

Dr. Shreeram Upadhyaya is a Clinical Registrar with an MBBS and MD in Psychiatry, and he holds a Fel...

Dr. Shreeram Upadhyaya is a Clinical Registrar with an MBBS and MD in Psychiatry, and he holds a Fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry. He is Nepal’s first psychiatrist to formally complete a specialized course in Addiction Psychiatry from the esteemed Institute of Medicine (IOM), Tribhuvan University (TU), Kathmandu. Dr. Upadhyaya developed a strong interest in Addiction Psychiatry early in his MD training. While diagnosing addiction-related disorders may be relatively straightforward, he notes that their management is often complex and challenging. Over time, he has found mindfulness—rooted in Eastern philosophy and Buddhism—to be a highly effective tool in treating addiction. In his clinical practice at the Teaching Hospital, he integrates mindfulness techniques, which have proven beneficial not only for individuals with addiction but also for those dealing with depression, other psychiatric disorders, physical illnesses, and major life stressors. His patients frequently report significant improvements through consistent engagement in mindfulness practices. Dr. Upadhyaya is deeply involved in academic and research activities, exploring various aspects of Psychiatry. He actively mentors MD Psychiatry residents, helping them excel both clinically and academically. A dedicated learner and empathetic listener, Dr. Upadhyaya is committed to working collaboratively across disciplines to promote mental health and well-being. His motivation is continually fueled by his patients, colleagues, and mentors, as he strives to grow both personally and professionally.