Ayça Özen
Clinical Psychologist & Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Therapist
I specialise in:
About me
I’m Ayça, a clinical psychologist from Turkey, currently living in Italy. I take a holistic approach to therapy, recognizing the deep connection between mind, body, and emotions. For me, understanding people—who they are, what they’ve experienced, and how they perceive the world—always comes before any diagnosis or treatment. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where clients feel heard and empowered to navigate life’s challenges.
Living abroad has been a transformative experience that has broadened my perspective on different cultures, identities, and ways of thinking. Being an expat has deepened my appreciation for diversity and has made me even more open-minded in both my personal life and professional practice. In therapy, I integrate various psychological approaches based on individual needs, seeing it as a collaborative journey toward healing, growth, and self-awareness. My holistic perspective extends beyond my work—it's a way of life, centered on balance, curiosity, and continuous learning.
I speak:
Location:
Approach
As a therapist, my approach is deeply holistic, recognizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and emotions. I believe every individual is unique, with their own experiences and strengths, and I aim to create a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts and feelings. I pay close attention to each person’s expression style and try to match their pace throughout the therapy process. This sensitivity helps me meet clients where they are, ensuring that they feel understood and respected in every step of their journey.
I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) techniques, adapting them to each client’s specific needs. Whether addressing thought patterns, cultivating self-compassion, or enhancing emotional resilience, my goal is to work collaboratively with my clients to achieve meaningful change. I focus on empowering clients to develop healthy coping strategies, self-awareness, and a sense of personal growth that continues beyond our sessions.
Having lived abroad, I also bring cultural sensitivity and a deep appreciation for diversity into my practice. I understand how cultural, personal, and life experiences shape a person’s worldview and behaviors. With an open mind and flexible approach, I support clients from all backgrounds in navigating their unique paths toward healing and self-discovery.
