About me

Hi, I’m Akshat. I’m a consulting philosopher and coach based in Bengaluru, originally from Kullu, Himachal Pradesh.

I work one-on-one with people on the questions underneath everyday problems: careers, relationships, how you feel and how you live.

The approach I take in my private practice is derived from the field of “philosophical counselling”. I have been an academic researcher in this field since 2019, and practicing professionally since 2022.

I did my MPhil at Panjab University, on how Indian philosophy could be used in this kind of work. I was lucky to have Dr Elliot Cohen, one of the people who built the field in the US, co-supervise my thesis, and I learned a great deal from him. The thesis is available as a pay-what-you-want ebook [LINK TO COME]. I came to this through philosophy rather than psychology, and that still shapes how I work.

We take ideas like freedom, purpose and isolation seriously and test them against how you actually live. I also help with the practical side: how you spend your time and energy, organising what you learn, and following through on what you decide.

I’m a committed mental health advocate. Living with a mood disorder since my early 20s shaped how I understand suffering, recovery and growth.

Outside of work: I enjoy singing, football, and playing board or video games with friends and family.

Certified consultant, National Philosophical Counseling Association (US) · ICF Coach Level 1 · NET Qualified Researcher in Philosophy.