Dr Maya Gimalova

I am a Chartered Psychologist (BPS) and a registered Counselling Psychologist (HCPC). My therapeutic practice is based on the idea that it’s the relationship that heals. I believe that the connection between client and therapist plays an important role in a successful therapeutic experience. I aim to meet my clients as human to human, with acceptance and understanding that everyone goes through challenges in life that may cause emotional suffering. I am aware that to begin exploring difficult feelings, experiences, or patterns clients need to feel comfortable. With that in mind, I aim to create a safe and trusting space where you feel heard and understood. Together, with the help of my respectful and gentle inquiry, we will make sense of your unique life experiences. We will also pay attention to how you relate to the world, to self and to others. My role is to help you become curious about your internal world, to help you understand how relational themes from the past impact the present, and to help you find ways to reach your ambitions to live a meaningful life.

I work in an integrative relational way which means I draw on various therapeutic approaches including, existential, cognitive-behavioural or psychodynamic, while always paying attention to the process in a therapeutic space. I previously worked at the NHS and have experience supporting individuals with a range of presentations including existential questions, low mood, anxiety, trauma, stress, and relationship difficulties. I also have extensive experience helping individuals make sense of their sexual health, helping them adjust to living with various diagnoses, as well as understand their sexual behaviours, and manage their anxieties related to sex. I have an international upbringing which positions me well to work with individuals from a diverse range of cultural and social backgrounds. I also sometimes rely on my knowledge of neuroscience as it helps to understand how our brains work, how some memories are processed and why we react a certain way to situations. I believe in the power of long-term therapy but can also work in a more structured and directive, short-term framework. I would be honoured to gently hold your life story and walk beside you in discovering your internal world.