About Me

Hello!

My name is Emel Kahraman and I am a qualified Integrative Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist, with a background in the creative arts. My early training in puppetry shaped the way I work with children and young people, and creativity remains central to my therapeutic practice.

I use art, play, storytelling, metaphor and symbolic work (such as sandplay and clayfield therapy ) to help children and adolescents make sense of overwhelming feelings and difficult experiences that can be hard to put into words.

I’ve completed a training in psychoanalytic parent–infant psychotherapy and I do work with families from pregnancy up to around two years old, helping to strengthen the bond between the parents and their baby.

I believe that compassion, empathy and a strong therapeutic relationship are at the heart of meaningful change. My integrative approach allows me to draw on different therapeutic models and tailor the work to each individual child, young person or family.

My clinical framework includes an understanding of attachment and trauma informed by neuroscience, alongside psychodynamic, humanistic and cognitive approaches, including psychoeducation.

Alongside working with babies, children and adolescents, I also offer reflective parenting sessions. I have experience supporting families and individuals with a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, developmental trauma, abuse, loss and bereavement, self-harm, eating difficulties, selective mutism, family conflict, divorce and separation, behavioural difficulties, and challenges around self-esteem and emotional regulation.

For children with neurodivergent diagnoses or presentations, my work focuses on understanding how their experiences affect their feelings, behaviour, and relationships. Together, we explore strategies to help them navigate their world and feel more understood and supported.

I have a Master’s in Integrative Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy, am registered with UKCP, and hold an enhanced DBS for working with children and adults.

Practicalities

Starting therapy

The process usually begins with an initial consultation involving parents or carers (and sometimes the child or young person). This is an opportunity to think together about what feels difficult and whether psychotherapy feels like the right support at this time. It also gives you space to ask questions and get a sense of how I work.

Sessions

Sessions usually take place once a week, at the same time and in the same room. This consistency helps to create a sense of safety and continuity. Sessions last 50 minutes. My practice is based at Charing Cross Centre, NR2.

Confidentiality and parental involvement

Therapy offers a confidential space for children and young people. At the same time, parents and carers are an important part of the process. Regular review meetings or reflective parenting sessions provide a space to think together about how things are going and how best to support your child.

Confidentiality would only be broken if there were concerns about immediate safety or significant risk.

Length of therapy

Psychotherapy is not a quick fix, although some children and young people may experience some relief early on. The length of therapy varies depending on individual needs and is reviewed regularly. The aim is to support meaningful and lasting change, rather than short-term symptom relief.

Fees and practical details

Sessions are £85. I am registered with AXA and Aviva; please check your policy for details of coverage. Payment is usually made by bank transfer at the end of the calendar month once I send the invoice.

I aim to keep mental health support accessible; reduced fees may be available in some circumstances and can be discussed if needed.

Cancellations with less than 48 hours’ notice are usually charged at the full fee.

Please feel free to get in touch to arrange an initial consultation or to ask any questions.

If we decide to begin working together, I will provide a contract outlining these arrangements and other practical details, which you will have the opportunity to read through before therapy begins.