“Healing begins when mind and heart meet.”
At Open Heart, we provide a safe, compassionate space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment.
At Open Heart, we provide a safe, compassionate space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment.
My name is Ilva Mehmedaj, originally from Albania, I moved to the UK over 10 years ago. This transition was not easy at all for me. Becoming a mum in my twenties while holding on to big dreams while navigating life’s challenges was one of the most demanding chapters of my journey. Along the way, I endured some of life’s deepest heartbreak, the loss of my father and the heavy, unspoken weight of childhood trauma that I carried silently for years.
Through therapy and my studies in Counselling and Psychotherapy, I learned how transformative it is to talk about the things we often keep hidden. Many of us believe that sharing with a friend or family member is enough, but while their love and sympathy matter, they cannot replace the professional support needed to truly heal and make a change.
After completing my training and working with clients facing anxiety, depression, panic attacks, trauma, abuse, relationship challenges, addiction, etc, I founded Open Heart Counselling , a practice built on compassion, understanding, and the belief that healing begins when mind and heart meet.
Open Heart was born from my own experience of feeling stuck and disconnected. I know what it’s like to carry pain silently and to feel guilty for wanting more out of life.
My mission is to create a safe space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment, reconnect with yourself, and find the strength to move forward with a change.
Under the BACP ethical framework, I am committed to providing professional, confidential, and empathetic support for every client.
At Open Heart Counselling, we provide integrative therapy, which means we draw from different therapeutic approaches to meet your unique needs. Every person is different, and what works for one may not work for another. By combining methods such as Person-Centered Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), we create a tailored approach that supports your healing journey.
Why integrative counselling?
Because connection matters. As a therapist, I believe that understanding and flexibility help build a strong therapeutic relationship, the foundation for meaningful change.
For personal growth, anxiety, depression, trauma, and more.
Supporting young people through life’s challenges.
Helping partners improve communication and strengthen relationships.
Creating healthier dynamics and resolving conflicts.
Compassionate care for those navigating complex transitions (please contact us to discuss this service).
Your therapeutic journey with clarity and care.
Online or face-to-face
50 minutes per session
£100 per session (adjustments can be discussed in certain circumstances)
Before starting therapy, we hold an assessment session to discuss your needs, confidentiality, and safeguarding procedures.