Aija Sarkane
Counsellor in Edinburgh

I am a warm and approachable therapist/counsellor, specialising in most evidence based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, committed to helping people make sense of their challenges and move towards positive change. I believe therapy should feel supportive, collaborative, and empowering, giving you a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings while learning practical strategies that really work.

Background & Counselling Qualifications

I hold a Psychology degree and a Master's degree in Psychological Therapies (CBT) from the University of Edinburgh. I have clinical experience working at the Centre for Psychological Therapies and at my own practice. Alongside this, I did COSCA Counselling Skills training, which strengthened my ability to listen with empathy and work ethically. I originally come from Latvia, and in addition to English, I speak Latvian and Russian, which allows me to work with clients from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds. My career has included voluntary mentoring roles, mental health support work, and extensive clinical training under BABCP-accredited supervisors.

Currently, I am in supervised practice while working towards full BABCP accreditation, which ensures a high standard of profesional and ethical care.

My Specialisms

My main area of specialism is working with children and young people, supporting them with anxiety, low mood, self-esteem issues, school stress, and difficulties in relationships. However, I also have experience working with adults on a wide range of concerns, including depression, trauma, social anxiety, OCD, low self-esteem and workplace stress. In addition, I have worked with people affected by substance misuse, neurodiversity (ADHD, autism), and those facing major life changes or cultural challenges.

Approach to Counselling & How I Work

I practice Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in a collaborative and flexible way. This means we work together to understand your difficulties, identify patterns of thoughts and behaviours that may be keeping you stuck, and develop personalised tools to help you cope and grow. My style is warm, non-judgemental, and structured, but also tailored to your pace and needs. I integrate reflective practice, compassion, and creativity into my work, ensuring therapy is not just about addressing problems but also about building strengths and resilience.

Therapies & Rates

Please note the rates detailed below are there to give you an idea of the therapists standard rates, we strongly advise you contact the therapist for more detailed rates and any offers they may have.

Therapy	Appointment Type	Rate
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy	Online/Telephone	£50 per 50 minutes
Counselling	Online/Telephone	£50 per 50 minutes

Additional Rate Information

I offer a free 30-minute initial session where we can talk through your concerns, answer any questions you may have, and give you the chance to see if therapy with me feels like the right fit for you.