Bistra Slavkova

Integrative CBT, ERP, ACT and compassion focused approach to therapy:

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

ERP is a core component of OCD treatment, focusing on gradually exposing children to their fears and preventing compulsive behaviors or avoidance tactics. By facing their anxieties in manageable steps, children learn that they can handle discomfort without turning to avoidance or compulsions. Over time, this approach can significantly reduce the severity of OCD symptoms, enabling children to feel more in control and resilient in the face of their fears.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT helps children learn to accept difficult thoughts and feelings without letting these experiences dictate their actions. By fostering mindfulness, cognitive defusion, and values-based actions, ACT reduces avoidance and encourages psychological flexibility. This method empowers children to live according to their own values rather than their anxieties, helping them navigate challenges with greater self-assurance.

Art and Play Interventions

I also incorporate art and play interventions, as creative expression can be especially powerful for children. Through art and play, children can improve self-esteem, emotional intelligence, and social skills in a non-threatening way. These activities encourage spontaneity, curiosity, and autonomy, nurturing authenticity and emotional growth.

Strengths-Based Perspective

My approach is strengths-based, focusing on empathy, acceptance, and highlighting each child’s unique strengths, skills, and resources. Therapy is goal-oriented, supporting children as they build resilience and work toward their own values and wishes, with me as their guide in this process.

I’m a BACP-registered Child & Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Counsellor and an OCD therapist, specializing in childhood anxiety, OCD, and adolescent mental health. My work, both with The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy and in private practice, is deeply informed by my experience as someone who has personally navigated anxiety and supported loved ones with OCD. This unique perspective shapes my compassionate and effective approach. 

Driven by a passion for supporting children and young people, I uphold principles of empathy, trust, and confidentiality in my counselling approach.

I have worked with a diverse range of clients, helping numerous children and families navigate through their challenges.

Qualifications and Work Experience

PG Dip Children and Young People Psychotherapeutic Counselling from the Northern Guild for Counselling and Psychotherapy

BSc (Hons) Child Development Psychology from London South Bank University

OCD Therapist/Associate at The Integrative Centre for OCD Therapy

School Counsellor with Tsunami Counselling and Dukes Education

Early Intervention Children and Family Wellbeing Practitioner (CAMHS Tier 2 Practitioner) at the Anna Freud Centre

Clinical Practice on Placement with Place2Be

I provide a Free 30-minute Consultation, online via Zoom or over the phone, designed to discuss the needs of your child and provide next steps advice.

Fees:

£70 per session