Spring Counselling
London and Online
YAPRAK BAHAR, MA, MSc
Psychologist
I provide counselling and psychotherapy for expats and international students who struggle with issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, work and life balance, cultural adjustment, relationships, identity and career questions, existential anxiety, dealing with loss and trauma.

"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 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.
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.
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
Clinical and Counselling Psychology M.A.
La Salle University, USA / Czech Republic
2011 – 2013
Sociology B.A. with minor in Psychology
Boğaziçi University, Turkey
2006 -2011
International Trauma Studies Program (Clinical Level), World Human Relief (WHR)
Jan-May 2021
Dialectical Behavioural Therapy Training
Modules I, II & III - Diyalektik Terapi
Winter 2021
Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level I, II & III The Gottman Institute
Summer & Autumn 2020
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.
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.
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
publications: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17207648
PRACTICE AREAS
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anxiety and stress
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depression
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mood swings
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self-esteem issues
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work-life balance
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burn-out
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cultural adaptation
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relationship problems
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identity and career questions
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trauma and related issues
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loss and grief
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personal development
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existential and life questions


MEMBERSHIPS AND REGISTRATIONS
The British Psychological Society (BPS)
MBPsS, GBC membership no: 558457
The Dutch Association of Psychologists (NIP)
PSYCHOLOOG NIP: 228427
American Psychological Association (APA)
Membership no: 00222239
LANGUAGES
I offer therapy in English and Turkish.
TESTIMONIALS
TESTIMONIALS
"With my partner, we were going through a hard time not being able to solve our conflicts. Yaprak welcomed us with great empathy and a clear goal. This therapy was life changing for both of us. In a few months, our communication and interactions changed drastically. We definitely can say that her guidance helped us to listen and understand our own history as well as each other’s. "
N & A , France