Get to know us - Elif Koklu

I am a bilingual humanistic and integrative counsellor (registered with the BACP), with a BA in Psychology and a MSc in Clinical Psychology. I have worked with adults from different walks of life within social care, charity organisations and my private practice.

I am rooted in working relationally, and prioritise building solid therapeutic relationships with clients by offering my full and genuine presence, empathy and utmost care. I strive for my clients to feel safe, held and trusted throughout their journey of self-exploration and self-discovery.

I have a holistic approach and I am interested in seeing the whole of the client. This involves their thoughts, feelings, actions and bodily responses and overall, their unique ways of experiencing the world.

No matter what difficulties my clients are facing; whether it’s unhelpful patterns, overwhelming feelings, challenging conditions or the past holding its grip on the present, I always endeavour to approach them with openness and curiosity. I aim to help my clients to gain deeper insight into their difficulties and themselves, gain new perspectives, make constructive changes if desired, ultimately helping them lead a life that is meaningful and aligned with their authentic selves.

As an integrative counsellor, I draw upon multiple therapy models to meet the needs, circumstances and histories of the individual. These models involve humanistic, psychodynamic and transpersonal (spiritual) ways of working. I also value creativity, and can incorporate creative skills if this is a suitable way for the client to express or to explore themselves.

I have a specific focus and experience in working with individuals dealing with early and severe trauma, attachment wounds, relational and identity issues, low self-esteem and negative self-beliefs and narratives. I employ a trauma-informed approach, bringing stabilisation and grounding techniques when and if it feels right for the client.

Diversity and inclusivity are of great importance for me, both within and outside the therapy room. My practice is anti-discriminatory and anti-racist, and supportive of GSRD (Gender, Sexuality, and Romantic Diversity) and LGBTQIA+ individuals, as well as those with less neurotypical traits. I welcome anyone with respect regardless of any aspects or intersections of their identity.

I have experience working and offering help with a wide range of psychological difficulties including the following: