Dr. Hasti Raveau, PhD, LP, knew from a young age that she wanted to study psychology. Raveau immigrated with her family from Iran, and her own experiences drove her commitment to provide health and healing to others.
After losing her brother who had ADHD to suicide and her own son being identified as autistic, Raveau began to see the need for a different approach in mental health care for individuals and families.
“I’ve experienced firsthand how hard it can be to navigate the healthcare and education systems, even the extended family system, when you are raising a child who is differently wired,” Raveau said.
Mala Child and Family Institute
Raveau is the founder and director of Mala Child and Family Institute, which not only provides care for individuals of all ages, but also trains other professionals in mental health fields. They currently have clinics in Plymouth, Ann Arbor and Farmington Hills, with a team of 60 providers, directors, staff members and trainees.
“Finding affirming providers and educators, and building a supportive community has taken consistent intentional effort, things I wish my own immigrant mother and my neurodivergent brother had access to when he was growing up,” Raveau said. “It gave me a deep commitment to making sure families don’t feel alone in their struggles.”
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Mala offers therapy from a culturally sensitive approach, taking into consideration the individual’s family background and history. They offer trauma therapy, occupational therapy and psychological evaluations, along with school advocacy services and help for neurodivergent clientele.
“At Mala, we bring providers together across disciplines to collaborate closely, making care feel seamless and whole. In a time when clients are stretched thin and facing rising stress, our model offers not only support, but also hope and healing.”
A safe space for healing
Raveau feels that her clinics provide a safe space where children, teens, adults and couples can find connection. She understands the challenges that many families face, and hopes to offer care and compassion as they overcome obstacles.
“Mala’s mission to end intergenerational cycles of trauma and to provide trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming, culturally sensitive care comes directly from both my professional training and my personal journey as a mother,” Raveau said.
Getting to Know Dr. Hasti Raveau
Tell us about yourself!
I live in Metro Detroit with my husband and our blended family of four kids between the ages of 6 to 16. Our home is full, lively and never boring! We recently adopted a baby bearded dragon, and have been enjoying taking care of him. He is teaching us to slow down, observe and be patient.
Dream vacation?
Somewhere with beautiful architecture, history and nature all in one that will somehow remind me of my country of birth.
Are you a book person or a movie person?
Both. I love reading educational books so I can keep growing my understanding of things. I love movies that make me cry and feel.
Do you have a mom superpower?
I think my mom superpower is that I see my children as my biggest teachers. Every day, they are teaching me lessons, but I receive them only when I stay humble and choose to listen and learn.
What do you like to do on a day off?
Spending time with my family, repotting my indoor plants while listening to music in the background and cooking something simple but delicious.
What is your favorite season in the Midwest and why?
Fall. When I immigrated to America, I could not believe the beauty of fall in Michigan. There is something so magical about it. It is the season that invites reflection on mortality, endings and the beauty of letting go.
Favorite local restaurant?
The Sardine Room in Plymouth. I love fresh oysters, their Spanish sardines appetizer is divine and the drinks never disappoint.
Favorite beverage order?
Lavender oat milk latte, half the pump on the syrup.
Any mottos, quotes or sayings that inspire you?
People are always gaslighting their own emotions. I love saying to them “If you did not feel this way given this circumstance, that would be concerning.” I watch their entire body drop in relief. It reminds them that their feelings are not the problem, and they can shift to curiosity and making a value driven action.
Any advice for parents who are trying to maintain a work-life balance?
I think we’ve tricked ourselves into believing we can “do it all” on our own, but the truth is, doing it all while still having pockets of joy and sanity takes resources. And the number one resource families need is community.
