Clinical Psychologist

Warm, compassionate, and evidence-based psychological therapy tailored to your unique experiences. Providing a safe, non-judgmental space to explore difficulties and empower meaningful change.

HCPC Registered Practitioner • BABCP Accredited Psychotherapist

Dr Neli Zheleva, Clinical Psychologist

About Me

I am deeply committed to my work and strive to offer a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where we can explore your experiences together, understand your difficulties, and process your thoughts and feelings. I have over seven years of experience working within NHS mental health services, providing evidence-based therapy to adults experiencing a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties. My practice is highly collaborative and culturally sensitive. I am passionate about tailoring therapy to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual, including adapting my approach to support neurodivergent ways of thinking, processing, and communicating.

Therapies & Specialisms

I work in an integrative, client-centred way, drawing primarily on standard evidence-based models to treat concerns such as anxiety, depression, panic, OCD, PTSD, trauma, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and work-related burnout.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

A structured approach focused on understanding how your thoughts, beliefs, and behaviours impact your emotional states, working together to develop practical coping strategies.

Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP)

The gold-standard evidence-based intervention specifically designed to help individuals break free from the exhausting cycles of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)

Specially integrated to target deep-rooted shame, harsh self-criticism, and perfectionism by developing inner self-warmth, psychological safety, and resilience.

Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Focuses on clarifying your deeply-held core values and developing psychological flexibility, helping you take meaningful action even alongside difficult thoughts or emotions.

Training, Qualifications & Experience

  • Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) – University College London (UCL)
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy – University of Essex
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy – University College London (UCL)
  • MSc in Developmental Psychology – University of Kent
  • BSc (Hons) in Psychology – University of Hertfordshire
  • 7+ Years NHS Experience – Delivering mental health support in adult mental health services

Self-Help Resources & Articles

Explore evidence-based insights, psychological concepts, and practical strategies designed to support your mental well-being and personal growth outside of clinical sessions.

ANXIETY & OCD

Understanding OCD: Moving Beyond the Stereotypes

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is frequently misunderstood as a simple quirk or a desire for neatness. In reality, it involves deeply distressing intrusive thoughts (obsessions) followed by repetitive mental or physical actions (compulsions) used to temporarily alleviate anxiety. True relief comes not from eliminating uncertainty, but from shifting the way we relate to it.

Read full article ↓
BURNOUT & WELL-BEING

Navigating Workplace Burnout and Perfectionism

Burnout is more than exhaustion — it is a state of chronic stress that erodes motivation, energy, and sense of self. Understanding the role perfectionism plays can be the first step toward meaningful recovery and sustainable change.

Read full article ↓
MINDSET & FLEXIBILITY

The Power of Developing Psychological Flexibility

Psychological flexibility is the ability to stay present, open, and engaged even when life is difficult. It is a core skill that can be cultivated through practice and is central to living a values-driven, fulfilling life.

Read full article ↓
ANXIETY

Understanding Anxiety: Why Your Brain Is Trying to Help (and How to Work With It)

Anxiety is not a flaw — it is your brain's attempt to protect you. Learning to understand and work with your anxiety, rather than against it, can transform your relationship with fear and open the door to greater freedom.

Read full article ↓

My Approach to Practice

"A strong emphasis on building a collaborative and culturally sensitive therapeutic relationship where you feel genuinely heard and valued."

"Dedicated to providing a safe, containment-focused environment empowered to nurture long-term, meaningful personal growth."

"Tailoring framework mechanics seamlessly to welcome and adapt for neurodivergent processing and communication strengths."

Book A Consultation

Professional Registrations

HCPC Registered Practitioner · BABCP Accredited Psychotherapist

Insurance Accepted

  • Aviva(600182862)
  • AXA Health(NZ00253)
  • Vitality Health(SP121935)
  • WPA(921473847)

Session Fees

  • In-person (55 min)£120
  • Online (55 min)£110