Ilkay Alici , BACP

Ilkay Alici is a counsellor and psychotherapist who combines formal training with practical experience to support individuals and couples facing a wide range of challenges. She is a member of the MBACP, which indicates membership of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, and holds an MSc in Psychology, a Master of Science degree in the study of psychological theory and practice. She specialises in areas such as stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, parenting difficulties, addiction, relationship struggles, and related concerns.

Ilkay appreciates that seeking support can feel difficult and sees that first step as a sign of strength. She aims to offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space where clients can explore thoughts and emotions openly. Working collaboratively, she helps people and couples navigate complex feelings, improve communication, and develop practical strategies for a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Her approach is grounded in respect and empathy, with attention to each client’s unique history and goals. Ilkay remains committed to supporting clients through change and challenge and to helping them build stronger relationships and greater emotional wellbeing.

Therapeutic approaches and online support

Ilkay uses client-centered therapy to create a supportive, empathic environment where clients lead the pace and focus of sessions. This approach helps people feeling overwhelmed by life events, relationship difficulties, or self-esteem concerns to explore their emotions and find their own solutions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, is applied to identify and adjust unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours - it is often helpful for anxiety, depression, stress, and many everyday challenges. Mindfulness therapy is offered as a complementary approach, teaching simple attention and breathing practices that can reduce rumination and increase moment-to-moment awareness, which supports stress management and emotional regulation.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Ilkay works collaboratively with clients to determine which methods best match their needs, goals, and personal preferences. She adapts her style over time as progress and circumstances evolve.

Online therapy options - including video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging - make it easier to fit sessions into busy lives and to access support from different locations. These formats offer flexibility in scheduling and communication style, allowing clients to choose the mode that feels most comfortable while still receiving consistent, professional care from licensed professionals and therapists.