Spring Counselling
London and Online
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.
"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
Bringing Baby Home Educator Training &
Emotion Coaching: The Heart of Parenting
The Gottman Institute, Nov 2022
Grief Therapy, Portland Institute for Loss and Transition, Oct 2023
International Trauma Studies Program (Clinical), World Human Relief (WHR), Jan-May 2021
Dialectical Behavioural Therapy Training
Modules I, II & III - Diyalektik Terapi, 2021
Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level I, II & III The Gottman Institute, Summer-Autumn 2020
Foundations of Psychodrama
Istanbul Psychodrama Institute, 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)
GMBPsS membership no: 558457
British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
Registered Member MBACP: 00990292
American Psychological Association (APA)
International member: 00222239
LANGUAGES
I offer therapy in English and Turkish.