About Me
My passion for connecting with and supporting others is a journey that stretches from my childhood dreams to the present.
Hi, I'm Idil
My passion for connecting with and supporting others has been a guiding force throughout my life. As a child, I dreamed of being a florist, perhaps the purest expression of wanting to help people feel better. This early calling evolved into a deep fascination with psychology and has become the foundation of my professional journey as a counsellor.This passion has become an unwavering compass that strengthens my connections with both others and myself.
My journey to transform this passion into a career began with mental health workshops in high school and gained solid foundations at Bilkent University's Psychology Department. Throughout my university education, I gained valuable experiences at leading Turkish mental health institutions such as "Madalyon Psychiatric Center" and "Heltia."
I furthered my education with a Master's in Clinical Psychology Practice at Kingston University in the UK, where I had the opportunity to translate theory into practice. I worked as a counsellor under supervision at Accessible Counselling and Therapy, a non-profit organization, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I also served as a Teaching Assistant for Special Educational Needs at Zen Educate, deepening my understanding of developmental psychology. These experiences earned me Graduate Membership of the British Psychological Society (GMBPsS).
"I've always found profound fulfillment in building genuine connections and supporting others on their personal journeys. I feel incredibly blessed to have found my true calling early in life and to have turned this passion into my profession."
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"Everyone has their own unique story and the inner wisdom to chart their own course. I would be privileged to support you in discovering and navigating your path to growth."
My academic research has explored areas including the therapeutic benefits of mindfulness techniques and the impact of sociocultural factors on mental health, deepening my understanding of holistic approaches to wellbeing.
Currently, I am expanding my expertise through a BACP-accredited Counselling Diploma program at The Gestalt Centre London. This training integrates Gestalt therapy's theoretical foundations with hands-on practice. The core Gestalt principle of "here and now" guides my approach, inviting clients to explore their inner experiences with present-moment awareness.
I work as a counsellor at Solas Mind, where I support individuals on their healing journeys. I also serve as an Assistant Psychologist at Cassiobury Court Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Centre, conducting risk assessments, developing personalized care plans, and facilitating both individual and group sessions. I incorporate mindfulness, meditation, and breathing exercises to offer a holistic approach to recovery.
My commitment to ethical practice includes engaging in my own regular therapy and receiving supervision from an accredited supervisor. My practice is fully insured by Howden Insurance, and I am registered with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), strictly adhering to GDPR guidelines for client confidentiality and data protection.
In my work, I honor each person's unique journey with attentive presence. Drawing from both clinical experience and personal practice, I walk alongside my clients as they discover their own path toward healing and growth.
Achievements & Certifications
● Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Essentials course from the Association for Psychological Therapies (APT), Certificates of Success, UK 2024
● Health and Safety Awareness - Certified - CPD Accredited (2024)
● Medications Level 2 (VTQ) - CPD Accredited (2024)
● Care Certificate - CPD Accredited (2024)
● Care Certificate Standard 9 - Awareness of mental health, dementia and learning disabilities - CPD Accredited (2024)
● Care Certificate Standard 11 - Safeguarding Children - CPD Accredited (2024)
● General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) - Certified - CPD Accredited (2024)
● Bullying and harassment in the workplace - a practical guide for employees - Certified - CPD Accredited (2024)
● Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults part one - Introduction and the risks faced by vulnerable adults - CPD Accredited (2024)
● Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults part two - Types of abuse, disclosures and reporting - CPD Accredited (2024)
● Safeguarding of Children (Child Protection) Level 2 (VTQ) - CPD Accredited (2024)
● Data Protection Law, Definitions and Principles, Certificates of Success, UK 2024
● Mindfulness Therapy Training - Rehber Clinic, June 2023
● Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Training - Rehber Clinic, June 2023