Meryem Kalayci

I really enjoy travelling and learning about different cultures. I am an avid chef, who loves conjuring new dishes in the kitchen. My other big passion is knitting - anything from baby clothes to adult scarves, bags and hats.

I also have a keen interest in psychology and psychotherapy and spend a considerable amount of time reading books on the topic. Finally, I love the outdoors, am quite an active person (used to do kick boxing) and often attend live dance and music performances (Sadler’s Wells Theatre being one my favourite places).

For most of my professional life, I have worked with children and young people in various capacities from a childminder and au pair to a youth worker and school counsellor. I have extensive experienced working with children and families from a variety of different backgrounds, which has made me culturally aware and sensitive. Working with young people has given me an insight that it is often hidden anxieties, fear of failure, bullying, learning difficulties, lack of adequate support at home, school or the family situation that can have a huge impact on their academic performance, and contribute to behavioural problems or poor attendance.

I work in an integrative way but in my sessions, I often incorporate elements of psycho- education, cognitive behavioural approaches and coaching.

I see my role as not only supporting students during a period of difficulty but also enabling them to achieve their personal and academic goals. On an individual level, I am a naturally caring, empathetic and passionate individual and aim to provide a safe, non-judgmental and confidential space for all my clients to explore difficult feelings and learn more about themselves. I want my clients to recognise their true potential and find courage to deal with obstacles in their life.

Diploma in Integrative Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy and Counselling, Terapia (Middlesex University).