Dr Irem Aksu

Specialist Counselling Psychologist
Professional Doctorate in Counselling Psychology · MSc Health Psychology · BSc Psychology

Registration

Quick facts

  • Year qualified: 2024
  • Years in eating disorders: 3 years
  • Languages offered besides English: Turkish
  • Consults at: Central London, Remote

Biography

I am a Counselling Psychologist specialising in eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image difficulties. I have experience working across both NHS and private settings, supporting adults with a range of eating and mental health difficulties.

approach to treatment

My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to each person. I use evidence-based approaches, including CBT-E, MANTRA, and CBT-T, and draw on ACT, CFT, and EFT where helpful. I don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach; instead, I adapt therapy to what feels most relevant for you and your goals.

areas of interest / specialism

My clinical interest is in body image difficulties, eating-related struggles that take up significant mental and emotional space, and the impact these can have on self-esteem, identity, and daily life. I aim to support people in developing a more balanced and compassionate relationship with food, their body, and themselves. Alongside helping to reduce eating disorder thoughts and behaviours, I also focus on building self-esteem that is not solely dependent on appearance or eating patterns.

specialised Training

  • CBT-E CREDO training (completed in May 2025)
  • MANTRA training (ongoing, will be completed by December 2026)

Senior Roles and Notable Prior Posts

  • Clinical Supervisor in an NHS Eating Disorders Service
  • Vincent Square ED service

media and Press

  • Outside of work, I love travelling and exploring different cultures and places. I also enjoy spending time with family and friends, reading, being in nature, and playing tennis. Maintaining a good balance between work and the things that bring meaning and enjoyment to life is important to me.
    Dr Irem Aksu

Q&A with Irem

In the first session, we’ll take time to understand what’s brought you to therapy and what you’re hoping for. It’s a collaborative conversation, also a chance to see whether working together feels like a good fit.

A common misconception is that eating disorders only “count” if you fit a classic image or diagnosis like anorexia or bulimia. In reality, eating difficulties exist on a spectrum, and even if you don’t tick every box, struggles with food, body image, or control can still be significant and deserving of support. Eating disorders can make life feel very small, rigid, and isolating. I find this work meaningful, as recovery often involves not only reducing symptoms but also reconnecting with parts of the self that may have been lost or overshadowed.