Maria Rakhmanova

About me

I’m a highly qualified and clinically trained psychodynamic counsellor and psychotherapist. My work experience includes various public and community-based services across London, as well as NHS referrals. I offer an empathetic, consistent and confidential space where difficult and unprocessed feelings and thoughts can be safely explored and put to rest. My approach is psychoanalytically oriented and is probably more suited to those looking to understand themselves and others on a deeper level.

Most of us experience difficulty of making sense and moving on from painful experiences, especially when we’re overwhelmed by our feelings and by what has happened to us. I can help clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, bereavement and other losses, identity and body image problems, issues related to sexuality and gender, concerns related to transitional changes in life, obsessive compulsive behaviours and thoughts, addictions, eating disorders and self-harm. I welcome clients from diverse communities and backgrounds.

I work in a psychodynamic way, which, unlike some other forms of therapy, is non-directive. This provides you an opportunity to spontaneously express whatever might be on your mind at any given moment in time. We will also consider the relationship that emerges between us, where we think together about what could be learnt from the dynamics between us and how it may be relevant to your past and present relationships. This may help to bring light to unconscious coping strategies and let go of forces that might be impacting your relationships, feelings, thoughts and behaviours, so that you feel lighter and freer in your daily life. Working through these in a professional and non-judgemental environment can help to rebuild a fuller sense of the self and open new perspectives for the future. The process might be gradual but the change is profound and more permanent.

I offer open-ended in-person sessions here in Pimlico, Westminster. I also try to accommodate those who are unable to attend in person by offering online sessions. If you would like to get in touch, please contact me by email or phone, and we can then arrange a free introductory call and discuss further steps.

Training and qualification

-MSc (Distinction) in Psychodynamic Counselling and Psychotherapy from the University of London

-HE Diploma in Counselling and Counselling Skills from the University of London

Additional training in:
- trauma
- grief and bereavement
- attachment
- sexuality and gender diversity

Professional affiliation: