18 June 20263 min read
Why anxiety is not a bad messenger
Getting rid of anxiety entirely isn't possible — but changing our relationship with it is. A short piece on what anxiety does, how the cycle grows, and where it can be broken.
Anxiety
Psychologist · İzmir & Online
A calm space where you can be heard.
Anxiety, stress and difficulty in relationships are usually part of a story that is waiting to be understood. Through CBT-informed individual sessions and play-based work with children, we open that story together.
Anxiety and panicStress and burnoutSelf-worthRelationship difficultiesGrief and lossExam anxietyChildren and teensParenting
In short
Hello, I'm Hatice Nur Irmak.
I graduated in 2025 from the Psychology (English) programme at İzmir Democracy University. Throughout my studies I took part in many volunteer initiatives and gained hands-on experience as an intern psychologist in a range of institutions.
My thesis examined the effect of attachment styles on substance dependency. Today I hold online individual sessions with adults and work with children and adolescents through play and structured activities.
- 5 years
- Undergraduate psychology training
- 5+
- Certified practitioner trainings
- 120 hours
- Turkish Sign Language (MoNE)
Services
Areas we can work on together
Every process is built around the person who arrives. The following shows the ground the work stands on.
Approach
What matters to me in the session
A space without judgement
Psychological support is not sitting across from someone who already knows the right answer. What you bring is received as it is.
Evidence-based methods
My work rests on approaches with research support — cognitive behavioural therapy first among them.
Goals we set together
We decide together where we are heading. The process follows your pace and your priorities.
Cultural sensitivity
Every story makes sense in its own context. Your family, values and living conditions are not left outside the room.
Process
How things move from the first message
Get in touch
You reach out over WhatsApp or email. A short note about what you're looking for and when you're available is enough.
First session
In the first meeting we talk about what has been hard, your background and your expectations. It is also a mutual test of fit.
A shared map
With what we gather, I build a formulation and we clarify the goals and the likely shape of the process together.
Regular sessions
We continue with weekly meetings, reviewing at intervals where we stand and adjusting the plan when needed.
Journal
Something to keep thinking about
9 May 20263 min read
What is your child telling you in play?
Children tell us about their feelings not in sentences but in play. On why play is a language rather than a way to pass the time.
Children
2 April 20263 min read
Coming to a first session: not knowing what to say is normal
What happens in a first session, what gets asked, how to prepare? A plain account for anyone wondering about the process.
Process
FAQ
Common questions
How do sessions take place?
Sessions are held online over video. At the appointment time you simply join through the link sent to you; a quiet space where you can be alone is all you need.
How long is a session, and how often do we meet?
A session is 45–50 minutes. The process usually moves at one session per week; we can review the frequency together as needs change.
How many sessions will it take?
That depends on what we work on and what you're aiming for. Some themes become clear within a few sessions, others need longer work. After the first few meetings I share an estimated frame.
Is what I share confidential?
Yes. Everything shared in session falls under professional confidentiality. The only exception arises where there is risk to your life or someone else's, within legal obligations.
Can a psychologist prescribe medication?
No. Medication is the field of psychiatrists. Where I see a need I will suggest psychiatric support and, with your consent, we run the process together.
What is the session fee?
For current fees and the student rate, please get in touch over WhatsApp or email.
First step
You don't have to feel ready to start talking.
You may not know what to say — that is entirely usual. The first session exists precisely for that. A short message is enough.