Ilma is a therapist and writer who views words as her own kind of magic — whether using them to support others in their healing journeys or to share knowledge with the world.
Her work is grounded in deep presence, curiosity, and attuned listening, helping clients process their past and present experiences, build more resilient nervous systems, and move toward greater joy and connection in their lives.
Ilma takes a non-pathologizing, relational, and embodied approach informed by Compassionate Inquiry (CI), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Polyvagal Theory. Through this lens, she guides clients in exploring their inner landscapes, building trust with their parts, and understanding how their patterns influence their lives and relationships. At the heart of her work lies a core belief: healing happens in connection.
Beyond therapy, Ilma is an active writer who explores topics such as mental health, relationships, trauma, nonprofits and social impact, language, and travel. She blends lived experience with research to create meaningful, thought-provoking work. Whether through one-on-one sessions, writing, or facilitating healing spaces, Ilma’s goal is to invite more clarity, safety, and self-compassion into people’s lives.
Education and certification
- Master of Science - MSc, Psychology, University of Surrey (current)
- Felt Sense Polyvagal: A Certificate For Treating Trauma and Addiction, Polyvagal Institute
- Somatic Experiencing (Introduction), Somatic and Expressive Arts International
- Compassionate Inquiry Trainee, Compassionate Inquiry Professional Training Program by Dr. Gabor Maté
- MDMA-Assisted Therapy Education, Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS)
- MOE Professional Coach Training, MOE Foundation
Core skills & strengths
- Trauma-informed therapy
- Polyvagal-informed therapy
- Relational and attachment healing
- Psychedelic integration and preparation support
- Psychedelic therapy
- Deep listening and presence
- Psychoeducation
- Mindfulness and presence-based approaches
- Integrative perspective bridging psychology, body, and spirituality
- Curiosity and lifelong learning
- Ability to translate complex ideas into accessible language
- Capacity to hold nuance and paradox