Dr. Ali Ihsan Yaka
(he/him)
Clinical Psychologist & Psychotherapist
Available for new clients
I am a Clinical Psychologist (MA, PhD) with extensive experience in psychotherapy, grounded in rigorous academic training and years of clinical practice.
I specialize in:
At a glance
Istanbul, TurkeyAvailable in-person, online and via text
Last active
Experienced on It's ComplicatedOver 3 years on It's Complicated
Offers free 20 minute introductory callThis provider offers a free introductory call
Note from Dr. Ali Ihsan Now welcoming new clients for psychotherapy. Flexible scheduling offered.
Usually responds within 2 hours
About me
I offer psychoanalytic psychotherapy with a Lacanian orientation in English, Turkish, and Kurdish. My work focuses on helping individuals explore unconscious dynamics to uncover the roots of their suffering and support lasting change. I use techniques like free association and scansion to foster insight, growth, and a renewed sense of agency. I specialize in issues related to trauma, loss, life transitions, and existential crises, and provide an LGBTQI-affirmative, inclusive space for diverse identities.
I speak:
EnglishTurkishKurdish
Location:
Istanbul, Turkey
Approach
Treatment Approaches
Lacanian PsychoanalysisRecommended for those who want to explore the unconscious mind through the lens of language and desire, focusing on understanding deeper motivations.
Psychotherapy Recommended for those who want to work through emotional or mental health challenges by talking with a trained psychotherapist.
Trauma Informed CareRecommended for those who have experienced trauma and need a safe, supportive space to heal at their own pace.
I practice clinical psychoanalysis to help uncover the root causes of emotional suffering and support lasting change. My approach respects each person’s cultural background and gender identity, creating a space for deep self-exploration and healing. Reaching out is the first step toward meaningful transformation.
Experience
19 years in practiceOver 3 years at It's Complicated
Internships
Clinical Supervisor, METU, Ayna Clinical Psychology Unit (2019 – 2023)
Child and Adult Clinical Practicum, METU (2017 – 2018)
Child Clinical Practicum, Ankara University School of Medicine (2010 – 2011)
Adult Clinical Practicum, Ankara University School of Medicine (2008 – 2009)
Mental Health Sector
Clinical Psychologist, Ahi Evran University Hospital, Kırşehir (2009 – 2014)
Psychologist, Ak Psych Technical Center, Ankara (2008 – 2009)
Psychologist, Medical Center of Disabled Children, Tekirdağ (2007 – 2008)
Psychologist, Medical Center of Deaf Children, Kocaeli (2005 – 2006)
International NGOs
Consultant Psychotherapist, Center for Victims of Torture, Iraq (2020 – 2021)
Mental Health Program Manager, Action Against Hunger (2018 – 2019)
Mental Health Officer, Médecins du Monde, Diyarbakir (2016 – 2017)
National NGOs
Volunteer Psychologist and Executive Member, Human Rights Association, Ankara (2008 – 2010)
Volunteer, Elder Brother/Sister Program, ÇAÇA
Education
Ph.D., Clinical Psychology, Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey, 2024
Dissertation Title: Examining the Discourse of Mental Health Workers in Iraq: A Lacanian Approach to Social Trauma in Clinical Supervision
https://tez.yok.gov.tr/UlusalTezMerkezi/tezlerim.jsp?sira=1
M.S., Clinical Psychology, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey, 2012
Dissertation Title: The Relationships Between Attachment, Early Maladaptive Schemas, Self-Regulation, and Psychological Symptoms
https://tez.yok.gov.tr/UlusalTezMerkezi/tezlerim.jsp?sira=0
B.S., Psychology, Dicle University, Diyarbakır, Turkey, 2005
Cost
Free 20 minute introductory callSliding scale starting at €70
Individual Session
€80
Insurances
Private Pay
At a glance
Istanbul, TurkeyAvailable in-person, online and via text
Last active
Experienced on It's ComplicatedOver 3 years on It's Complicated
Offers free 20 minute introductory callThis provider offers a free introductory call
Note from Dr. Ali Ihsan Now welcoming new clients for psychotherapy. Flexible scheduling offered.
Usually responds within 2 hours
Explore more
My offerings
Course
Case Conceptualization in Clinical Psychoanalysis:
Next available: Apr 26