Neetha Priya Mascarenhas
Psychiatric social worker
Coordinator of the Psychosocial Rehabilitation Program and the Internship Program at COOJ. With 19 years of experience as a Psychiatric Social Worker, Neetha finds fulfillment in building meaningful connections with clients and their families. Her passion for continuous learning, professional growth, and the inspiring resilience of clients keeps her motivated. Neetha values the gratitude and trust she receives in her role, which makes her work truly rewarding.
Aldela Pereira
Psychologist
Employment Training Head for the STEPPN Program at COOJ Foundation.nAldela Pereira brings 13 years of experience working with neurotypical individuals. She holds a diploma in computer applications and a Master’s degree in Psychology, equipping her with a strong foundation to support those with psychological disabilities. Aldela has successfully led the vocational training center at COOJ in Vasco, empowering individuals to develop skills for meaningful employment. Her previous role as Assistant Coordinator for the Geriatric and Dementia Care program further showcases her dedication to improving the lives of vulnerable populations. Aldela is passionate about fostering inclusive opportunities and making a positive impact in the community.
Rashmi Palav
Administration
Rashmi Palav serves as an Administrator at COOJ, bringing 14 years of experience innher field. With a background in managing operations and ensuring smooth administrative processes, she plays a vital role in supporting the foundation’s mission.
Dayle Rodrigues
Psychologist
With an M.A. in Psychology from St. Xavier’s College, Mrs. Dayle Rodrigues has beennpart of COOJ since 2015, contributing to the Rehabilitation Program for adults withnmental illness. In 2019, she took on the role of leading the Geriatric and Dementia Care program. Her deep empathy, patience, and love for her grandparents, especially as they faced dementia, inspired her to pursue psychology and specialize in dementia care. Mrs. Rodrigues believes that active listening, validation, and setting a positive mood are key to helping clients thrive. Her professional journey is one of growth, continually learning and evolving alongside her clients.
Sanya Pereira
Administration
With five years of experience, Sanya Pereira holds a BA with Honours from Parvatibai Chowgule College and an MA in Psychology from St. Xavier’s College. Her passion for understanding human behavior drives her to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), particularly cognitive restructuring, to help clients transform negative thought patterns. Sanya prioritizes genuine presence and mindfulness in her practice, ensuring clients feel heard and respected. She finds great satisfaction in witnessing her clients’ growth and breakthroughs. Committed to ongoing learning and collaboration, Sanya engages in professional development and connects with peers to stay at the forefront of mental health advancements. Her work not only benefits individuals but also contributes to broader mental health initiatives and stigma reduction.
Zeba Mohammed Yasin Shaikh
Psychologist
With a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from DCT’s Dhempe College of Arts and Science and a Master’s degree in Psychology from St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa, ZebanShaikh is a passionate psychologist driven by her fascination with the human mind and behavior. Her journey into psychology began with a desire to explore the intricatenconnection between mental and physical health. She believes in creating a warm, client-centered environment where individuals feel heard and understood. Zebanempowers her clients to take charge of their lives by helping them rationalize theirnthoughts and overcome challenges. For Zeba, the most rewarding part of her work is witnessing her clients grow, gain insight, and improve their lives with her support.
Donella Noronha
Coordinator, COOJ Suicide Prevention Program
With over 11 years of experience as a dedicated Befriender, Donella has been instrumental in holding emotional space for those in distress, offering a compassionate ear to those in need. Her passion lies in conducting community outreach programs, including gatekeeper workshops on suicide prevention and life skills programs for adolescents. Donella’s leadership in the u0022Go Yellowu0022 campaign led to one of her proudest achievements—the installation of railings on the Borim Bridge, significantly reducing suicide attempts at a once notorious location. Inspired by Dr. Peter Castelino, she remains committed to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and helping bridge the gap in support.
Meenakshi Mhambre
Counsellor
Meenakshi V. Prabhu Mhambre is a dedicated counsellor with a background innElectronic Engineering and an MBA. After discovering her passion for CounselingnPsychology, she has spent over 10 years providing support to individuals from various fields. Certified in Choice Theory and Reality Therapy, Meenakshi also serves as faculty for The William Glasser International in India. She is driven by the joy of making a difference in people’s lives and is committed to making psychological care accessible toall.
Vijeta Vinayak Kandolkar
Social Worker
Vijeta Vinayak Kandolkar has been a dedicated social worker at COOJ for over fivenyears. Her passion for helping others led her to this field. Over the years, Vijeta hasngained confidence and a deeper understanding of mental health and the challengesnpeople face. She values the supportive and family-like tmosphere at COOJ, which has helped her grow both personally and professionally.
Balkrishna P. Malwankar
Community Health Worker
With over nine years of experience in the field, Balkrishna Malwankar is a dedicatednCommunity Health Worker at COOJ Mental Health Foundation. His career began at Sangath (NGO), where he contributed to Depression projects as a Health Assistant and Field Surveyor Supervisor, engaging in both quantitative and qualitative research. At COOJ, he has played a key role as a Digital Buddy in the Geriatric Digital Intervention Program and has been instrumental in community awareness initiatives like the Yellow Run Suicidal Prevention Programs. Balkrishna’s passion for making a positive impact is evident in his empathetic approach and commitment to his clients. His skills in problem-solving, time management and teamwork are complemented by his creativity and openness to learning. He is known for his patience and receptiveness to feedback, which enhances his interactions with both clients and colleagues. The joy he finds in seeing the smiles of seniors in the Geriatric project fuels his edication to his work. Balkrishna embodies the belief that giving is more rewarding than receiving, and this philosophy drives his ongoing commitment tonthe field.
Anarose D’souza
Bakery – pastry chef
Anarose is a passionate and dedicated team member at COOJ, motivated by a deepndesire to support individuals in overcoming challenges. With a unique ability to connect with others, she uses her skills to teach baking, empowering clients to enhance their future by creating and selling food products. Their most memorable experiences come from witnessing the joy and excitement of those they teach. Through patience and understanding, Anarose continues to make a meaningful impact on both the foundation and the community.
Khloe Lobo
Marketing and Communications
Khloe is a marketing and communications executive with a Bachelor’s degree in Arts for Mass Communication and Journalism, along with two diplomas in Visual Effects. Driven by a passion for psychology and helping others, her internship at COOJ provided invaluable insights into the practical applications of counseling theories and techniques. Impressed by the diverse services offered at COOJ, Khloe is eager to contribute to their meaningful work while learning from experienced professionals in the field.
Divya Bagve
Account Assistant
Divya Bagve brings over 3.5 years of expertise in accounts and administration.nPassionate about fostering a positive work environment, Divya values openncommunication and teamwork. What she enjoys most about being part of COOJ is the chance to contribute to meaningful mental health initiatives that create real change in the community. Staying motivated by celebrating small wins, Divya remains dedicated to making a lasting impact through her work.
Rochelle D’Souza
Physiotherapist
Known as Healing Hands, Dr. Rochelle Queency Antao E D’Souza is a dedicated Senior Physiotherapist with 17 years of experience. Currently practicing at CarvalhonPhysiotherapy Clinic in Mapusa, Goa, she also makes weekly visits to COOJ MentalnHealth Foundation in Bastora and provides on-call services at Sankalp Hospital,nMapusa. Dr. Rochelle is passionate about improving her clients’ well-being and isncommitted to delivering compassionate care that makes a difference in their lives.
Kavita Keni
Kavita has been a part of COOJ for three years and is loved by both clients and staff for her warm, always-smiling presence. She deeply values the positive environment at COOJ and holds a special admiration for its founder and director. Following in hernmother’s footsteps, who also worked at COOJ, Kavita continues to spread joy and compassion throughout the foundation.
Anvi Vengurlekar
Anvi has been with COOJ for the past three months and enjoys the positive atmosphere created by the supportive staff and clients. She finds her work at COOJ both happy and rewarding. Before joining the foundation, Anvi worked as a beautician at a salon and also gained experience in a pharmacy, bringing a diverse skill set to her role.
Vandana Fernandes
Pharmacist and Dance Enthusiast
Vandana Fernandes is a dedicated pharmacist based in Mapusa, where she provides expert advice on medication usage and the management of lifestyle diseases. With a passion for helping others, she was invited by Dr. Peter to share her love of dance with clients who had limited access to social dancing. What began as a simple teaching opportunity has blossomed into a fulfilling journey over the past decade. Vandana’s dance sessions have evolved to include body coordination, therapeutic movements, and expressive dance, enriching the lives of her clients while also nurturing her own enthusiasm for dance. With an active lifestyle that seamlessly combines her professional work and exercise regimen, Vandana is energized and committed to making a positive impact on those she teaches.
Volunteers
Doris
Linda
Zeili
Eliza
Housekeeping
Sushmita Kalapurkar
Bus driver
Santiago
Caretaker
Cyril