Meet Aakanksha Punj | Psychotherapist & Psychedelic Facilitator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Aakanksha Punj and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aakanksha, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting my own business was a really intentional decision. While working in agency settings with court mandated clients, I often found myself pushing for more client-centered, trauma-informed care but the traditional structures only allowed so much flexibility. I wanted to create something different. A space where healing didn’t feel boxed in or too clinical. I wanted to blend both Western and Eastern practices, offering something that traditional clinics often don’t.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I started my business with a simple idea: I wanted to create a space where healing didn’t feel clinical or limited. After working in traditional agency settings especially with mandated clients, I saw how important it is to offer care that’s truly client-centered, trauma-informed, and holistic. At Giggle Garden, we blend psychotherapy, psychedelic therapy, life coaching, and sports coaching, integrating both Western and Eastern healing practices. I was born and raised in New Delhi, where I grew up surrounded by Eastern approaches to wellness—things that most agencies don’t offer. I came to the U.S. at 19 to play Division 1 tennis and study psychology, and over time, I’ve learned to fully embrace both parts of my identity. It hasn’t always been easy being an immigrant woman of color in the mental health world comes with its own set of challenges—but it’s also shaped the heart of my work.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d kick things off with a hike at Garden of the Gods to take in the stunning red rock views, followed by an early morning trek up the Manitou Incline to watch the sunrise, challenging but unforgettable. We’d spend time strolling around Old Colorado City, exploring local shops and soaking in the historic charm. For food, we’d hit Slice420 for casual bites, grab drinks at Shame and Regret, enjoy a good meal at Four by Brother Luck, or brunch at Garden of the Gods Café. We’d take a day trip to Denver with breakfast at Denver Biscuit Company, spent time exploring Meow Wolf, and a downtown stroll for shopping and people-watching. Midweek, we would head to Buena Vista to either hike and explore in the summer or enjoying winter sports if it’s snow season. Then we would wrap up the trip with a relaxing stay at Mt. Princeton Hot Springs.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Oh I have so many people to thank who’ve helped me get to where I am today. Two of my supervisors in particular stand out. They were incredibly supportive and truly believed in me. Their encouragements helped me build confidence, grow into my voice, and step into the best version of myself so I could show up fully for the clients I serve. I’m beyond grateful for their guidance and the impact they’ve had on both my personal and professional journey.

Website: https://www.gigglegarden.org

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aakanksha-punj-98b113350/