Nice to meet you!

My name is Ilkim and I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist dedicated to promoting mental health wellbeing and advocating for social justice. With a Doctorate in Counselling Psychology from Glasgow Caledonian University, my work is deeply informed by research into complex trauma and its profound impact on individuals. I specialise in trauma-focused therapies, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), and work with clients to heal from trauma and reclaim their sense of self.

Currently, I work within the NHS, providing psychological care to adults navigating various mental health challenges. I also work with children using attachment-based therapies, and with couples through Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), supporting partners to strengthen emotional bonds and improve their relationships.

In my practice, I believe each client is the expert on their own experience, and I value their input in designing their psychological care. I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches, including Person-Centred Therapy (PCT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Schema Therapy (ST), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), tailoring my interventions to meet the unique needs of each individual.

Milestones and Achievements

Having grown up in Istanbul, Turkey, and now living in Glasgow, I bring a culturally sensitive approach to my work, recognising how cultural and social contexts shape our lives. This awareness, combined with my commitment to social justice, informs my work with marginalised communities and my involvement in violence prevention efforts through the YORET Foundation.

Whether working with individuals, couples, or children, my goal is to create a safe, compassionate space where clients feel empowered to explore their challenges and work towards meaningful change.

Professional Qualifications

Doctorate in Counselling Psychology
Glasgow Caledonian University, 2020–2023
MSc in Clinical Health Psychology
University of Strathclyde, 2016–2018
BA in Psychology
Istanbul Bilgi University, 2011–2015
- Erasmus Exchange at Umeå University, Sweden (2014)
- Summer School at University of Roehampton, UK (2013)

Professional Experience

Counselling Psychologist
Motherwell Psychological Therapies Team
October 2023 – Present
Trainee Counselling Psychologist
Psyche Therapy Centre, 2021–2023 Motherwell Psychological Therapies Team (Adult Mental Health Service), 2021–2023
Psychologist
Istanbul Acibadem Hospital, 2018–2019
Family Support Worker
Promote Positive Contact, 2021–2022
Board Member
YORET Foundation (Foundation for the Advancement of Counselling in Education), 2017–Present

Certifications and Training

DBT Essentials Skills - 2024
EMDR Level One Training – 2022
Trauma and Grief Therapy Training – February 2019
Emotionally Focused Therapy Training – December 2018
Solution Focused Counselling Therapy Training – December 2018
Theraplay (Attachment-Based Play Therapy) Level 1 Certificate – May 2016
Mindfulness for Professionals – January 2018

Volunteer and Community Involvement

Volunteer and Playmaker
Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity – 2017 Y People Charity Glasgow – 2018
Foundation for Violence Prevention
YORET Foundation – Violence prevention projects and board game creation for children's rights.
Various Roles
Nadis Education and Counselling Centre, Istanbul, Tohum Autism Foundation, Istanbul, and other children-focused charities.

Conferences and Workshops

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder UK Conference – July 2017
Psychoanalytic Therapy for Adults (Tavistock Institute, London) – August 2017
CPD: Treating Generalized Anxiety Disorder – January 2017

Let's Talk

Starting therapy is a big step, and finding the right fit matters. I offer a free 15-minute introductory session, where you can share a bit about what you’re looking for, ask questions, and see if my approach feels right for you. Together, we’ll begin exploring how therapy can support you on your journey.