Who we are
Founder: Dr Anindita Sarkar, AFBPsS
I am a consultant clinical psychologist, with more than two decades’ worth of experience in the NHS and local authority, working with children, young people and adults. In my last role, I was head of clinical services for a large London local authority.
I decided to set up Affiniti+ because I feel strongly that mental-health services should be brought into the mainstream. We need to normalise conversations about mental health and neurodiversity. No-one should feel alone in their struggles, so I want to forge positive connections and encourage collaborative thinking.
As a woman of colour with dyslexia, I know what it’s like to feel different. I understand the desire to belong and the challenge of fitting in. I am therefore keen to make mental-health support more accessible and relevant to all communities.
I believe strongly in providing a personalised service, listening and responding to what my clients tell me about their needs and the obstacles they’ve faced.
I am a board trustee for the charity Chasing the Stigma. Previously a trustee for the Missing People charity. I am proud and humbled to provide paid placements to aspiring psychologists.
Outside work, I enjoy spending time with friends and family. I love the arts, like TV murders, travelling, sunshine and crunchy snow. I embrace life with enthusiasm and an open mind.
Qualifications:
Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society
Doctorate in clinical psychology (Canterbury Christ Church University)
MSc in mental-health studies (King’s College London)
Assistant Psychologist: Zara Tandy
I initially joined Affiniti+ as an intern and am now an Assistant Psychologist here. I have a Master’s degree in Developmental Psychology and Psychopathology from King’s College London. My master’s research focuses on the effects of early life experiences on later development, particularly how childhood trauma may influence psychotic-like experiences in young adults. I also hold a Psychology degree from the University of Bristol, and am proud to be the first one in my immediate family to go to university.
At Affiniti+, I am drawn to our tailored approach to mental health care and am committed to normalising mental health discussions and advocating for therapy. I am currently actively involved in leading the development of groups, workshops, and training sessions aimed at enhancing our community's understanding and management of mental health and neurodiversity. I have also had the opportunity to deliver neurodevelopmental assessments and therapy, as well as write clinical reports. As part of my continuing professional development, I have been given the opportunity to act as secondary supervisor to future psychology interns, supporting them with the audit, service evaluation, and research aspects of Affiniti+. Additionally, I contribute to enhancing our online presence and communication strategies, ensuring they reflect our core values.
Outside of my professional life, I am passionate about the arts, regularly attending ballet performances, visiting galleries, and playing the oboe in several classical orchestras. I work hard to be great at my job, help others, and grow personally.
Affiniti+ Alumni
Psychology Intern: Shantel Harris
My experience as an intern at Affiniti+ was both informative and advantageous, and it helped me better comprehend the potential effects of a person-centred, responsive healthcare system. My internship allowed me to observe firsthand the need for prompt, personalised mental health care, which Affiniti+ regularly provides, frequently bridging the crucial gaps caused by protracted NHS wait times.
One of the most fulfilling parts was feeling like I was in a setting where I could actually use the knowledge and analytical abilities my psychology degree had taught me, from comprehending the needs of each individual client to making a significant contribution to clinical talks and research. Additionally, the trust, autonomy, and support I received during my internship enabled me to make a significant contribution to both clinical and research activities. With a strong emphasis on development and innovation, the atmosphere was friendly, cooperative, and progressive.
Despite the fact that the internship is over, I am proud to stay in touch as an Affiniti+ alumni and am looking forward to seeing the service grow and continue to have a great influence on more lives.
“I cannot recommend her enough”
— Student, Greater London
