Psychotherapist

My name is Ilva Mehmedaj, and I'm an integrative counsellor and psychotherapist committed to creating a safe, compassionate, and non-judgemental space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences openly.

My journey into psychotherapy grew from a deep belief in the power of being truly heard and understood. Through my professional training in Counselling and Psychotherapy, and my work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, panic attacks, trauma, abuse, relationship difficulties, and addiction, I have seen how meaningful change becomes possible when people feel supported, respected, and emotionally safe.

After completing my training, I built a practice based on empathy, collaboration, and the understanding that healing begins when mind and heart connect. I work in a warm and relational way, believing that every client brings their own strengths and inner resources, and that therapy is a shared journey towards greater self-awareness, resilience, and emotional wellbeing.

I am an integrative practitioner, drawing on approaches such as Person-Centred Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). This allows me to tailor therapy to each individual, recognising that no single approach fits everyone. My work is guided by flexibility, curiosity, and a strong therapeutic relationship, which I believe is the foundation for lasting change.

Alongside my private practice, I work extensively with young people aged 16 and over within a college counselling service. This role has strengthened my ability to support students with academic pressure, relationships, identity, confidence, family dynamics, and future concerns. Over more than two years in this setting, I have developed a grounded understanding of the challenges young people face and a strong commitment to empowering them.

I also have over two years’ experience working in a specialist trauma centre, supporting clients who have experienced complex and long-term trauma. This work has shaped my trauma-informed approach, including grounding techniques, emotional regulation, and a strong focus on safety and personal agency. Supporting clients through long-term healing has given me deep insight into how trauma affects the mind, body, and relationships.

In addition, I have worked with asylum seekers and refugees, supporting individuals navigating displacement, loss, legal uncertainty, and social isolation. This experience has strengthened my cultural sensitivity, empathy, and ability to work across diverse backgrounds and life experiences.

Across all my roles, I work in a collaborative and respectful way, helping clients understand their experiences, reconnect with themselves, and find healthier ways forward. Under the BACP ethical framework, I am committed to providing professional, confidential, and ethical support at all times.

My Personal Journey
Originally from Albania, I moved to the UK over ten years ago. This transition was challenging and becoming a mother in my twenties while holding on to big dreams brought both growth and hardship. Along the way, I experienced profound loss, including the death of my father, and carried the impact of childhood trauma for many years.
My own experience of therapy showed me how transformative it can be to speak openly about what we often keep hidden. While the love of friends and family is invaluable, I learned that professional therapeutic support can offer something deeper: space for healing, reflection, and lasting change.
These personal experiences continue to inform my work, helping me understand what it means to carry pain silently, to feel conflicted about wanting more from life, and to take courageous steps towards change.

Session Information
Format: Online or Face-to-Face
Duration: 50 minutes
Fee: £100 per session (adjustments may be discussed in certain circumstances)
Initial Assessment:
A free introductory session to discuss your needs, confidentiality, contracting, and safeguarding procedures.