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)
Psychology Intern: Shantel Harris
I joined Affiniti+ as an intern after completing my BSc Psychology degree at University College London. I have always been fascinated by human behaviour; how we think, connect, and perceive others. My recent dissertation explored biological sex differences in facial expression recollection and processing, reflecting my broader passion for both understanding and helping people. As a person of colour, this fascination has been shaped by witnessing how mental health conversations were often stigmatised in the communities I grew up in. Understanding these social barriers has driven my commitment to making psychological support more accessible. I was drawn to Affiniti+ because I firmly believe in Dr. Sarkar's objective to normalise discussions about neurodiversity and mental health while also assisting people in realising their full potential.
Since joining, I have developed skills in writing clinical patient reports to support ASD and ADHD assessments, while gaining invaluable insight into how mental health support translates from theory to practice. I have enjoyed the experience of regular supervision and continuing my professional development. I am currently contributing to an exciting internal research database project designed to track the long-term impact of Affiniti+'s services; work that has the potential to inform future published research and improve outcomes for the communities we serve.
Outside of my studies and work I enjoy spending time with loved ones trying new cuisines. I love true crime documentaries and podcasts, listening to music, reading fiction novels and engaging in endurance activities. I embrace life with creativity and curiosity.
Assistant Psychologist: Zara Tandy
I initially joined as an intern and now an Assistant Psychologist here. I have a Master’s degree in Developmental Psychology and Psychopathology at 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 Bristol University. I’m proud to be the first one in my immediate family to go to university which is something that means lots to me.
At Affiniti+, I am drawn to our tailored approach to mental health care. I 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 managing of mental health and neurodiversity. I also had the opportunity to deliver neuro-developmental assessments, therapy and write clinical reports. As part of my continuing professional development I have been given the opportunity to be the 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.
“I cannot recommend her enough”
— Student, Greater London
