Alexandra Chikhacheva
Counsellor & Couples Counsellor
I specialise in:
About me
I hold a degree in Psychology from the University of Amsterdam, where I developed a strong academic foundation in understanding human behaviour, relationships, and emotional processes. What drew me to psychology, however, did not begin in a lecture hall - it grew out of lived experience.
Having moved across multiple countries throughout my life, I have been immersed in different cultures, values, and ways of relating. This constant exposure taught me early on that there is no single “normal” when it comes to communication, conflict, or emotional expression. The same behaviour can carry entirely different meanings depending on context, upbringing, and cultural background. This perspective continues to shape my work: I approach each client with curiosity rather than assumption.
My interest in psychology deepened as I began noticing patterns - how people protect themselves, how misunderstandings form even when intentions are good, and how relationships can become stuck in cycles that feel difficult to break. Rather than seeing these as problems to “fix,” I became interested in understanding what drives them and how change becomes possible.
In my work with individuals and couples, I focus on helping clients make sense of their experiences, recognise patterns, and develop more effective ways of relating to themselves and to others. I aim to create a space that is both supportive and honest, where clients feel safe to explore difficult emotions while also being gently challenged when needed.
Ultimately, my goal is not to offer quick answers, but to help clients build deeper understanding and lasting change in a way that feels meaningful and sustainable to them.
I speak:
Location:
Approach
My approach to counselling is highly personalised. I believe that there is no one-size-fits-all method, and I take time from the very beginning to understand what each client is looking for. Some people come with a clear goal, while others may feel unsure or simply know that something is not working. Both are equally welcome.
In our first sessions, we will explore together what feels important to you, what you would like to gain from the process, and what kind of support suits you best. Therapy with me is a collaborative process, where your pace, preferences, and needs guide the work we do.
I aim to create a space that is open, non-judgmental, and grounded, where you can speak freely and feel genuinely heard. At the same time, I value being active and engaged in sessions - offering reflections, asking meaningful questions, and helping you notice patterns that may not always be immediately visible.
My work focuses on building understanding, improving communication, and supporting clients in developing more awareness of themselves and their relationships. With couples, I pay particular attention to interaction patterns and how partners relate to one another, helping them move out of cycles that can feel repetitive or stuck.
I also recognise that not every conversation needs to be goal-oriented, sometimes having a space to talk openly and be listened to can be valuable in itself. Whether you come with something specific or simply the need to talk, we can use the space in a way that feels most helpful to you.
For those who are unsure about starting therapy or what they need, I see that as a valid starting point in itself. You do not need to have everything figured out before beginning—part of the process is discovering that together.
