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YAPRAK BAHAR, MA, MSc
Psychologist

 

 

I am a trauma-informed individual and couples therapist who works with people from various  cultural, sexual, racial and religious backgrounds. In addition to psychotherapy and counselling, I provide psycho-education in mindfulness, emotion regulation and interpersonal skills. I am also a trained researcher with a focus on close relationships, attachment, and existential anxiety. 

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"The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination."

Carl Rogers

“Many people suffer from the fear of finding oneself alone, and so they don't find themselves at all.”
Rollo May

ABOUT

ABOUT 

ABOUT ME

I was born in Turkey, a country that is known for its ethnic and religious diversity. Raised in a Macedonian – Turkish family, I have become aware of the cultural differences and how they translate into our society at an early age. I developed an interest in understanding social dynamics, interpersonal relationships, and psychological processes of human behavior.

 

I received my bachelor's degree in sociology with a minor in psychology and a master's degree in clinical and counselling psychology. I also have a research master’s degree in social psychology as I am very interested in the influence of social context and interpersonal relationships on psychological wellness. In addition, I have completed the Level 1 & 2 trainings, and Level 3 practicum training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy which I use in my therapy work with 

couples.

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I integrate the current scientific evidence in psychotherapy into my work. I am a trauma trained therapist and my practice is influenced by the following therapy models: humanistic, psychodynamic, Gestalt, existential, and cognitive behavioural therapy.

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My approach to therapy is informed not only by my training, but also my passion for drama, cinema and literature which I enjoy blending into my practice. 

EDUCATION & TRAININGS

 

         Social Psychology Research Master’s

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands

2018 – 2020  

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         Clinical and Counselling Psychology M.A.

La Salle University, USA / Czech Republic       

2011 – 2013

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         Sociology B.A. with minor in Psychology         

BoÄŸaziçi University, Turkey                                   

2006 -2011

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Grief Therapy, Portland Institute for Loss and Transition, Oct 2023

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International Trauma Studies Program (Clinical Level), World Human Relief (WHR)

Jan-May 2021

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             Dialectical Behavioural Therapy Training

          Modules I, II & III - Diyalektik Terapi

          Winter 2021 

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             Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level I, II & III            The Gottman Institute

          Summer & Autumn 2020 

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          Foundations of Psychodrama 

 Istanbul Psychodrama Institute, Turkey              

 Spring 2011

 

EXPERIENCE

I worked as a psychotherapist in Prague, specialising in working with international students and expats. I did my practicum and internship in the counselling center at my university campus where I had the chance to gain experience working with young adults, international students from various cultures, different religious affiliations and socioeconomic backgrounds. I also co-led group therapies focusing on the issues of cultural adjustment and multicultural relationships.

 

After my graduation, I provided individual psychotherapy in English and in Turkish to expats who live in Prague. I helped my clients with issues such as depression, anxiety, cultural adjustment, relationships, existential and identity questions.

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In Amsterdam, following my second master's, I started working at a private practice called Inter-Being Psychologists as an individual and couples therapist, and co-led support groups. 

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From 2018 until June 2021, I also worked in my private practice in Amsterdam. Currently, I offer therapy in London as well as online sessions. 

RESEARCH EXPERIENCE & INTEREST

close relationships, attachment theory, existential anxiety

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publications: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17207648

PRACTICE AREAS

  • anxiety and stress

  • depression

  • mood swings

  • self-esteem issues

  • work-life balance

  • burn-out

  • cultural adaptation

  • relationship problems

  • identity and career questions

  • trauma and related issues

  • loss and grief

  • personal development

  • existential and life questions

  • couples therapy

MEMBERSHIPS AND REGISTRATIONS

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The British Psychological Society (BPS)

GMBPsS membership no: 558457

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British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) 

Registered Member MBACP: 00990292

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The Dutch Association of Psychologists (NIP)

PSYCHOLOOG NIP: 228427

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LANGUAGES

I offer therapy in English and Turkish. 

TESTIMONIALS

TESTIMONIALS

I started counseling with Yaprak at a time where I was going through relationship anxiety. Apart from my love affairs, I knew deep down that thought processes that served me so far weren't working for me anymore. 

 

Yaprak helped me clarify my goals and desires, kept me accountable in my growth and self-awareness journey. Our sessions became my dedicated self-care time, something I eagerly anticipated each week.

 

After working with her for 6 months, I made progress in all of my goals, which included: being happy in my relationship, treating wounds from past relationships, feeling at ease when I'm not in control, being more present, prioritizing and advocating for myself over others, accepting others as they are and trusting the process.

 

C, London

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