Our Professionals
Meet Our Team
Dr Sonal Sharma
MPT (Neurology), Lead - Physiotherapy & Jt Head Administration
Dr Sonal Sharma
MPT (Neurology), Lead - Physiotherapy & Jt Head Administration
Sonal holds a Masters in Physiotherapy from the Indraprastha University Delhi, having completed his Bachelor’s program from the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore. He has 13 long years of experience; is a passionate physiotherapist, having been with the Neuroaid & Research Foundation since 2013. Sonal went on to do a Diploma Program in Yoga Therapy from Mangalore University and completed a joint mobilization technique course. He worked as Consultant Physiotherapist at the KR Hospital and Orthopaedic Centre, Chhatarpur and with Sukhmani Hospital at Safdarjung Enclave, Delhi. He is associated with HCRA (Handicapped Children’s Rehabilitation Association) and continues to do a good amount of charitable work in his personal capacity as well. He did exemplary work during the Covid-19 pandemic : gathering a small team, sourcing food and beverages through personal funds, standing long hours on the road over several weeks, to feed the migrant exodus during the pandemic’s first wave. Sonal Sharma continues to upgrade and enhance his techniques, and is certified in Manual Therapy, Movement with Mobilization from Capri Institute of Mobilization; Kinesiology Taping, Dry Needling and Cupping therapy. Besides being competent in clinical skills, Sonal is a proficient administrator, continuously seeking ways to take NRF’s services to the community. Today, the Neuroaid & Research Foundation is the official Physiotherapy partner to the Delhi Wheelchair Cricket Team; the Delhi Wheelchair Lawn Tennis Association, and the CR Park 37+ Veterans Football League, thanks to the initiatives taken by him.
https://youtu.be/IzzcyImOMGk
https://youtu.be/IzzcyImOMGk
Dr Monika Srivastava
MSc Occupational Therapy (Neurology) Lead Occupational Therapist & Jt Head Administration
Dr Monika Srivastava
MSc Occupational Therapy (Neurology) Lead Occupational Therapist & Jt Head Administration
Dr Monika Kundu Srivastava specializes in Neurological conditions and has 26 years experience in clinical, administrative (including setting up new OT departments in reputed institutes and hospitals across the country) and academic domains (including curriculum development) in Occupational Therapy colleges. She is an alumnus of Pt. Deen Dayal National Institute for Persons with Physical Disabilities, Delhi (formerly IPH) having pursued her Bachelor’s Program in OT with them, and of the All India Institute for Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (AIIPMR), Mumbai, where she completed her Master’s Degree in OT. In addition, Monika holds a post graduate degree in Psychology as well. She has spent most of her career handling and treating children with special needs, and has also had a tenure as Principal of a Special School. She has the proud privilege of being on the Board of The Ability People (TAB), Visakhapatnam : an NGO formed by and for persons with spinal cord injuries and other permanent disabilities in the capacity of Honorary Advisory Consultant. Monika was amongst the few senior professionals selected to participated as an examiner for the Bayley Scale of Infant & Toddler Development - 4th edition (BSID-IV) India Standardization study by Pearsons India Education Services Pvt Ltd. During her extensive career, she has been invited as a resource person by reputed institutions including naval professionals and their families, for a number of workshops in the field of rehabilitation. Monika has volunteered in a number of social work initiatives as an active member of The Navy Welfare Wives Association (NWWA). Besides, she has over 9 years’ experience as a freelance editor and enjoys writing in a professional and personal capacity. She has a number of publications to her credit, and has been a freelance science content writer for India Science Wire (Vigyan Prasar, Department of Science and Technology, Govt of India). A Naval daughter and wife, Monika has travelled extensively, and interacted with different cultural groups. She believes that learning is a lifetime process and keeps herself updated through short duration courses in various domains.
Dr Ankita Singh
BPT, PG Dip in Neuromusculoskeletal Physiotherapy (UK)
Dr Ankita Singh
BPT, PG Dip in Neuromusculoskeletal Physiotherapy (UK)
Ankita holds a Master’s degree in Physiotherapy (Orthopaedics) from Keele University, United Kingdom, having done her Bachelor’s degree from Jamia Hamdard University, Delhi. Prior to her joining NRF, Ankita worked at ITI as a physiotherapy teacher for 18 months, during which period, she worked in an NGO-supported Day School for Children with Special Needs. She is well-versed in handling the intense physical therapy needs of children with cerebral palsy, mental retardation, agenesis, hemiparesis and Down’s Syndrome. She is highly adept at managing the frequently varying moods of children with utmost compassion and understanding, while continuing to ensure compliance to their therapy needs. Ankita has also had considerable experience in an Orthopaedics cum Neurosciences Centre, where she treated numerous conditions including frozen shoulder, low back ache, osteoarthritis, cervical spondylitis, tennis elbow, etc. A total of 13 years’ experience stands her in good stead today. She was also part of the team that provided excellent pre- and post-tournament physiotherapy care to the Indian Wheelchair Premier Cricket League and the 37+ Veteran Football League. Ankita is a multi-tasker like her peers, and also serves as the Foundation’s Accountant, deftly handling complex responsibilities in coordination with NRF’s Chartered Accountant.
Dr Shalini Singh
MPT (Orthopaedics)
Dr Shalini Singh
MPT (Orthopaedics)
Shalini completed her Masters in Physiotherapy (Orthopaedics) from Jivaji University, and Bachelor’s from the Dolphin Post Graduate Institute of Biomedical & Natural Sciences, Dehradun. In partial fulfilment of her Master’s degree, Shalini submitted a project on Neonatal Asphyxia and Resuscitation. In her 13 years in the field of Physiotherapy, Shalini has had considerable experience in working with patients with cerebral palsy and stroke rehabilitation. She is certified by the Manual Concept of Australia as a Peripheral Manual Therapist; has completed Level I & II Practitioner Program in Kinesio Taping from the Kinesis University, USA; and certified as a Dynamic Taping Practitioner - Level I by DT Australia. Shalini is passionate about exploring new techniques in her field. She is one of the physiotherapists in the recently held tournament ‘Delhi 37+ Veterans Football League’ and ‘Indian Wheelchair Premier League 2022’.
Dr Nidhi Sharma
MPT (Orthopaedics)
Dr Nidhi Sharma
MPT (Orthopaedics)
Nidhi completed her Master’s degree in Physiotherapy from the IAMR Institute affiliated to CCS University, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh in the First Division, post her Bachelor’s from the same University in Musculoskeletal Therapy – also with distinction. Her dissertation as part of her Master’s program was on the “Effect of Median Nerve Gliding Exercises in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome amongst Computer Professionals in the Community”. Nidhi is an accomplished physiotherapist with a demonstrated history of working in the wellness and fitness fields. She has independently handled Outpatient Orthopaedic Clinics with singular focus on treatment of neck pain, musculoskeletal conditions, low back and shoulder pain. During her 16 years’ in the field of Physiotherapy, Nidhi worked as Guest Professor for five years as Course Coordinator in Acupuncture & Diabetic Rehabilitation Program at the DS Institute Ghaziabad, affiliated to the Lucknow University. Subsequently, she worked at the Jain Trust Hospital at Kavi Nagar, Ghaziabad. Nidhi was invited to set up and manage independently, the Physiotherapy Centre at IMA Bhavan, Ghaziabad, which she did most successfully for five years. She then worked with Sai Physiotherapy Centre at Dwarka before joining NRF. Nidhi Sharma successfully completed a workshop in ‘Manual Therapy Concepts : An Integrated Approach’ (covering Cyrax, Maitland, Kaltenban Elvey & Butler concepts); she attended several workshops and conferences at the Indian Spinal Injuries Center and participated in the workshop on “A Comprehensive Approach to Low Back Pain Management” at IAMR Ghaziabad. At NRF, Nidhi helped set up and operate several Mobile Clinics in Noid, for patients trying to recover from post-COVID complications. She was also amongst Team NRF that supported the Delhi Wheelchair Cricket players at the tournament held in June 2022.
Dr Nidhi Kashyap
MPT (Neurology)
Dr Nidhi Kashyap
MPT (Neurology)
Nidhi is a highly skilled and dynamic physiotherapy professional with over 15 years’ extensive experience in the outpatient units in Ortho, Neuro & Paediatrics. She completed her Master’s in Physiotherapy with specialization in Neurology from the Indian Spinal Injuries Centre, Institute of Rehabilitation Sciences, New Delhi. She is a certified Mulligan Concept Manual Therapist. In her career, she has worked as Assistant Professor in Neuro Physiotherapy at the Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Physiotherapy (BCIP), New Delhi. During her tenure, she held major responsibilities including Head of the Outpatient Dept, where she ensured smooth functioning of all systems and processes. As senior lecturer, her responsibility included planning, organizing and executing Neuro Physiotherapy classes for Bachelor’s & Master’s curriculum in compliance with GGSIP University. She played a significant role in achieving ISO certification for BCIP. She was invited as an honorary external examiner at various institutes like Manav Rachna International University, Faridabad; Amity Institute of Physiotherapy, Noida, etc. She was a member of the Neuro Inspection Team of the Delhi Council of Physiotherapy & Occupational therapy (DCPTOT), conducting periodic inspections at various Physiotherapy Institutes. She guided many undergraduate and postgraduate projects. Nidhi has many research articles published to her credit. She has played a crucial role in organising successful workshops and conferences at BCIP. She is a lifetime member of the Indian Association of Physiotherapists. Nidhi Kashyap has an analytical mind with excellent written and spoken communication skills. She continues to upgrade herself with upcoming new techniques in the field of Physiotherapy.
Dr Priya Jain
MD DNB (Paediatrics), Developmental Neurology
Dr Priya Jain
MD DNB (Paediatrics), Developmental Neurology
Dr Priya Jain completed her graduation from the prestigious Maulana Azad Medical College, Delhi following which she specialized in both Paediatrics and subsequently in Developmental Neurology. Dr Priya is obsessively passionate about treating infants and children, especially those with special needs, who are unable to communicate their own discomfort to the outside world. Their unwavering trust and ever-ready hug is what motivates her to deliver her best. Working with differently abled children has been the most rewarding experience of Dr Priya’s professional career. She is zealous about the holistic development of a child, not just physical or rehabilitative, but aims at helping the child develop into an overall socially adjusted and emotionally happy individual. She strongly feels that as parent and caregivers are the key to achieving this level of development, parental guidance and counselling are integral to her practice. When doctors, parents, caregivers and society come together and work with their hearts, everything is possible, Dr Priya Jain emphasizes.
Dr Jyotsna Wadhwa
MA PhD (Psychology)
Dr Jyotsna Wadhwa
MA PhD (Psychology)
Jyotsna is a highly qualified professional with a Diploma in Vocational Rehabilitation (Mental Retardation) (DVR MR) from the Rehabilitation Council of India. She did her MA Psychology from IGNOU with specialization in Clinical Psychology; completed an Advanced Diploma in Learning Disability from Shristi Child Development & Learning Institute under the PwD Act; has a B.Ed from Jammu University, and Early Childhood Education (ECE) including Education on Special Children from Symbiosis University, Pune in 2011. Jyotsna has completed Certificate Programs in Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). She successfully completed a Doctoral Program in Psychology in June 2023, adding yet another feather in her cap. Jyotsna has nearly 12 years experience in various facets of psychological counselling and teaching, including Autistic & ADHD children; in offering therapy and treatment for difficulties relating to mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, addiction, social and interpersonal problems and challenging behaviour; with specialized training in Specific Learning Disabilities like Dyslexia & Dyscalculia. She is RCI registered and a member of the Counsellor Council of India.
Ms Stuti Sharma
Bachelor’s in Audiology and Speech Language Pathology (ASLP)
Ms Stuti Sharma
Bachelor’s in Audiology and Speech Language Pathology (ASLP)
Stuti Sharma completed her Bachelor’s in Audiology and Speech Language Pathology (ASLP) from the All India Institute of Speech & Hearing, Mysore : India’s 4th Centre of Excellence which is NAAC-accredited. She has 8 years’ experience across all age groups and disorders at different set ups (hospitals, polyclinics, schools, teletherapy platforms, etc). Stuti has considerable experience as Lead Speech Therapist at the Indian Navy’s Early Intervention Centre, Delhi. Stuti has had clinical hands-on training by UK’s leading speech therapist Dr Jackie Harland and is adept at carrying out diagnostic assessments and planning therapy goals customised to each individual. She is on the consultant panel for a stuttering app (Stamurai) and provides teletherapy to clients in need across the country. She is trained in providing Auditory Verbal Therapy (AVT) for Cochlear Implantees. She is a certified AVAZ AAC (Augmentative & Alternative Communication) specialist. Stuttering, misarticulation, language delays and rehabilitation for stroke/ neurological disorders are her other areas of expertise. Stuti is self-driven and delivers good speech rehabilitation proactively with extreme patience, understanding and care, to help individuals and families achieve a better future filled with communication.
Ms Rajni Nagar
BSc MA (Counselling Psychology), Dip in Special Education
Ms Rajni Nagar
BSc MA (Counselling Psychology), Dip in Special Education
After completing her Bachelor’s in Science from Delhi University, and MA in Counselling Psychology from IGNOU, Rajni Nagar obtained a PG Diploma in Early Childhood Education, followed by a Diploma in Special Education from the American TESOL Institute. Interestingly, Rajni is also a software professional and a trained teacher. Of her 17 years’ experience in teaching, Rajni spent 6 years as Special Educator for Special Needs Children at the Navy Children's School, Vishakhapatnam. Her dedication and compassion draw her to children very easily. Her IT background is her major strength, as she is able to apply the latest technology-based tools and methods in her teaching, and also keep updated with emerging protocols in the training and counselling of both special needs children and their parents.
Dr Rahul Thakur
MPT (Sports)
Dr Rahul Thakur
MPT (Sports)
Rahul Thakur did both his Bachelor’s in Physiotherapy and Master’s in Sports Physiotherapy from Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, having graduated in April 2023. Rahul is also certified in Manual Therapy and Movement with Mobilization from the Capri Institute of Mobilization.Being an athlete himself, Rahul has been associated with the world of sports from his student days; this has helped him better understand the nature of an athletic body. As a sports therapist, his early exposure to sports and sports injuries allows him to assess and evaluate the functionality of the athletic individual from biomechanical evaluation to injury assessment. His aim has always been to ensure effective rehabilitation and quick return to play, of those injured during games. He has built his skillset to deliver appropriate training and treatment, depending on the mode and extent of injury.Rahul Thakur has worked at many national and international tournaments and treated athletes from many distinctive sports disciplines like Volleyball, Football, Cricket, Lawn Tennis, and combat sports like Wushu. He has also worked with the Haryana Rowing team as a team physio for Khelo-lndia Youth Games 2022 held at Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. His work involved working with special athletes of different kinds, from able-bodied and wheelchair-bound, to athletes of organ transplant category.The events that Rahul covered during his Master's, have given him an additive advantage to work in all kinds of sports settings. To him, an athlete is an individual who constantly pushes the body to unlock its true potential. He understands that the specially-abled athletes also require the same degree of focus and training, as do the able-bodies, which he is capable of.Rahul's vision is to provide exercise and rehabilitation services to athletes who are determined to play for the nation, but lack the resources and awareness of injury prevention and exercise — a critical factor which limits their performance. Rahul hopes to fulfil his mission through his association with NRF
Ms Neha Sharma
Junior Audiologist & Speech Language Pathologist
Ms Neha Sharma
Junior Audiologist & Speech Language Pathologist
Neha Sharma holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Audiology & Speech Language Pathology from Amity University. She has received extensive hands-on training during her internship programme at AIIMS (Patna), V-Listen Clinic and Sant Parmanand Hospital, Delhi that has helped hone her clinical skills. Neha has worked at Udaan Clinic in the past few months after graduating as a speech therapist and has gained valuable experience in patient care and treatment. Beyond her professional life, she is also passionate about art, with a keen interest in traditional and digital painting. She has used her creative skills to support a few organisations and create various artworks and publications. Neha wishes to make a positive impact on the lives of people who she serves, while continuing to grow professionally.
Dr Huzaifa Shahid
Junior Physiotherapist
Dr Huzaifa Shahid
Junior Physiotherapist
Huzaifa is a highly motivated and dedicated professional in the field of
physiotherapy, with a stellar academic record and comprehensive training
experiences. She holds a Master of Physiotherapy in Musculoskeletal from Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, coupled with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy
from Teerthanker Mahaveer University. Her academic journey reflects her
profound commitment to excellence, marked by consistently outstanding
performance. Complementing her academic achievements, she has undergone extensive training at prestigious institutions, including INDRAPRASTHA
APOLLO HOSPITAL, where she served as a Clinical Trainee. This training
provided her with invaluable hands-on experience in rehabilitation techniques and
treatment strategies, augmenting her ability to deliver comprehensive care to patients. Furthermore, she has participated in notable conferences such as PHYSIO MANTHAN, the 1st NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF IAP WOMEN CELL, and JAMIA PHYSIOTHERAPY CONFERENCE. These engagements have allowed her to present scientific papers on critical topics in physiotherapy, showcasing her dedication to research and academic excellence. Her Area of Interest is Spine Biomechanics. Driven by a genuine passion for her field and backed by a strong academic foundation and diverse training experiences, She stands as a beacon of excellence in the realm of physiotherapy. Her unwavering commitment to continuous learning and growth positions her to make significant contributions to the advancement of healthcare and education.
Ms Mihika Mittal
Child Guidance Counselor
Ms Mihika Mittal
Child Guidance Counselor
Mihika Mittal is a highly accomplished individual with a strong educational background and extensive experience in the field of mental health. She holds an Advanced Diploma in Child Guidance and Counselling from the prestigious National Institute of Public Cooperation and Child Development. Additionally, she pursued Master’s in Applied Psychology from Amity University, Noida, where she emerged as a University Gold Medallist, showcasing her exceptional academic prowess. Mihika’s journey in the realm of mental health commenced early on, evident from her Bachelor's (Hons) degree in English from Delhi University, which provided her with a strong foundation in communication and interpersonal skills - vital assets in the field of counselling.
Mihika’s professional journey is marked by diverse experiences and enriching engagements. Notably, her commitment to professional growth is evident from her internships and apprenticeships at various esteemed institutions and organizations, where she honed her skills across different domains of mental health. From her stint at the Adolescent Guidance Service Centre (NIPCCD) to her involvement with the Delhi Council of Child Welfare, she showcased a deep understanding of psychological interventions, ranging from cognitive behavioural therapy to play therapy, aimed at fostering holistic well-being among children and adolescents. She has also interned at Neuroaid-Shakti, through which she gained invaluable insights into the organization's mission and methodologies.
Apart from her professional endeavours, Mihika has actively contributed to research and academia, with her engagements at the International Journal of Neurolinguistics and Gestalt Psychology. Her dedication to her craft extends beyond her professional commitments, as evidenced by her voluntary work at Amar Jyoti Charitable Trust, where she provided invaluable services to children with special needs and their families, exemplifying her altruistic spirit and compassionate nature.
Furthermore, Mihika’s pursuit of certifications, including her GATE qualification and certifications from Yale University and Johns Hopkins University, reflects her commitment to continuous learning and professional development. She is an RCI registered counsellor.
With her multifaceted skillset, Mihika emerges as a dynamic and proficient mental health professional, poised to make significant contributions in the field of psychology and mental health.
Dr Akshay Kumar Joshi
MOT (Neurology) Senior Occupational Therapist
Dr Akshay Kumar Joshi
MOT (Neurology) Senior Occupational Therapist
Dr Akshay Kumar Joshi has more than 7 years’ experience in the area of neurorehabilitation. He has completed his Masters in Occupational Therapy (Neurology) from Chaudhary Charan Singh University and his Bachelor’s from the Delhi University. His work experience covers clinical, administrative, research and academic fields, having worked in reputed government and private institutions.
Work experience, publications, academics
• Skilled in both adult and paediatric therapy
• Associated in an ICMR-sponsored research project while with Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali
• Assistant Professor at Santosh College of Occupational Therapy; core member of their Research and Ethical committee; conducted numerus hands-on workshops for professionals and patients
• Five international publications to his credit
• Has presented his work at more than 10 national and international conferences
• Has guided more than 60 postgraduate and graduate students in research work
