Bukola Ruth Aina

I am therapeutic counsellor, and  dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey toward emotional well-being and personal growth. My background in therapeutic counselling, combined with hands-on experience in various therapeutic approaches, has equipped me to provide empathetic and non-judgmental support. I believe in the transformative power of therapy and work diligently to build strong therapeutic alliances with clients. I am committed to continuous learning, I focus on trauma-informed care and holistic methods. My goal is to create inclusive spaces where everyone can find their voice and resilience, facilitating healing and self-discovery. I am a qualified, NCPS and BACP registered integrative counsellor. I offer Face to Face, online and telephone therapy. I work with young adults, professionals, couples, and anyone seeking personal growth or facing life transitions. Whether you’re dealing with everyday stressors or deep-rooted challenges, I am here to support you in a compassionate, collaborative environment.

Clients I work with

Adults, teenagers, adult and older adults

Feel free to call, text or email me.

As a dedicated therapeutic counsellor, I have devoted my career to helping individuals, couples, and families find peace, clarity, and strength through life’s many challenges. My name is Oluwabukola Ruth Aina, I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds, offering them a compassionate, safe, and non-judgmental space to explore their feelings, confront their struggles, and rediscover their resilience.

I believe deeply in the power of human connection and the importance of authentic relationships. From an early age, I recognized the healing potential of empathy and genuine understanding, which drew me toward the field of counselling. My approach is one that focuses on both the emotional and practical aspects of healing, helping clients gain insight into their inner world while offering tangible skills to cope with the demands of everyday life.

Education and Professional Background:

I earned my diploma in Therapeutic Counselling from Victoria Counselling and Training Services, followed by specialized training in Understanding and Application of
Solution Focused Therapy Principle, Working with Bereavement and Loss (Adults). currently studying to earn The Practitioner Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling, Approaches to Arts Based Therapies. In addition to my academic qualifications, I am constantly involved in professional development, attending workshops and conferences that keep me updated with the latest advancements in the field.

For instance, I have received advanced training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Gestalt Therapy, and trauma-informed approaches, all of which play a significant role in how I work with clients today. Additionally, I participate in regular supervision sessions to reflect on my practice, ensuring that I am offering the best support to my clients.

Therapeutic Approach and Modalities:

I am an integrative therapist, meaning that I draw from various therapeutic modalities to best suit the individual needs of my clients. I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help clients recognize and reframe negative thought patterns, but I also incorporate Person-Centred Therapy, where the client is seen as the expert in their own life, and my role is to facilitate self-discovery and healing.

In cases where clients have experienced trauma, I employ trauma-informed practices that create a safe space for them to process their experiences without being retraumatized. This holistic approach ensures that my clients receive care that is tailored to their specific needs and circumstances, empowering them to heal in a way that resonates most deeply with them.

Specializations and Client Focus:

Over the years, I have developed a specialization in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues. My passion for working with these areas stems from seeing the profound impact that unresolved emotional pain can have on all aspects of life, from relationships to professional achievements.

I also have extensive experience working with clients who have endured trauma, whether it be childhood abuse, domestic violence, or loss. My approach to trauma work is gentle, allowing clients to process their emotions at their own pace, and focusing on building their resilience so that they feel equipped to move forward in their lives.

Personal Philosophy and Values:

At the core of my counselling practice are empathy, authenticity, and a deep respect for the individual journey of each client. I believe that healing is not a linear process, but rather a unique path that unfolds over time. My role as a counsellor is to walk alongside my clients on that path, providing support and guidance, but always allowing them to lead the way.

I view the therapeutic relationship as a partnership, where trust and openness are paramount. Clients are the experts of their own lives, and I see my role as helping them uncover the answers that already lie within them.

Therapeutic Approach and Modalities

My integrative approach allows me to be flexible in therapy, adjusting to the dynamic needs of my clients. While Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps clients develop concrete strategies for addressing unhelpful thoughts and behaviours, I also integrate mindfulness-based techniques to ground individuals in the present moment. This is particularly effective for those dealing with anxiety and overwhelming emotions.

Additionally, I incorporate Gestalt Therapy principles, focusing on the present moment and encouraging clients to take responsibility for their thoughts and actions. This helps individuals become more aware of their current emotions and behaviours, promoting self-awareness and facilitating deeper change.

For clients seeking deeper exploration of their internal world, I often draw from Psychodynamic Therapy. This approach helps individuals uncover unconscious patterns stemming from early life experiences, providing insight into how these patterns influence current behaviours and relationships. Working through these hidden influences empowers clients to break free from harmful cycles and create more fulfilling lives.

I am also a firm believer in Somatic Therapy, which involves understanding how trauma and emotional distress are stored in the body. By integrating body awareness practices, I help clients not only talk through their issues but also release physical tension and stress associated with emotional pain. This mind-body connection is crucial for achieving holistic healing, as emotional well-being is deeply intertwined with physical health.

Tailoring Approaches to Client Needs

One of the strengths of my practice lies in my ability to adapt therapeutic techniques based on each client’s unique situation. No two clients are the same, and my work reflects this by combining therapeutic modalities that resonate with the individual. I often begin with a thorough assessment of my client’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being, which allows me to determine the most appropriate strategies moving forward.

For instance, a client suffering from depression may benefit from a combination of CBT, which provides practical tools to challenge negative thinking, and Person-Centred Therapy, which nurtures the individual’s sense of self-worth. Similarly, a client dealing with trauma may find comfort in a blend of trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT) and Somatic Therapy, which helps them process their experiences both mentally and physically.

Incorporating Creativity in Therapy

Beyond traditional talk therapy, I have also found value in integrating creative modalities such as art therapy, journaling, and narrative therapy. Creativity allows clients to express emotions that may be difficult to articulate through words. For example, art therapy can be especially powerful for individuals who have experienced trauma, as it bypasses the need for verbal expression and allows for healing through visual representation.

Journaling, on the other hand, encourages clients to reflect on their thoughts and emotions outside of sessions, fostering personal growth and self-awareness. Through narrative therapy, I help clients reframe their personal stories, empowering them to change the way they perceive themselves and their challenges.

Specializations and Client Focus
Anxiety and Depression

As a therapeutic counsellor, I am particularly passionate about working with individuals experiencing anxiety and depression. These are two of the most common mental health challenges today, yet they manifest in diverse ways, depending on each person’s experiences. My approach to anxiety and depression is rooted in the belief that while these conditions can feel overwhelming, they are highly treatable with the right tools and support.

For clients struggling with anxiety, I utilize relaxation techniques, mindfulness practices, and exposure therapy. By gently guiding individuals through their fears and teaching them to manage their physiological responses to anxiety, we work together to reduce the impact of anxiety on their daily lives. Clients often describe feeling empowered as they learn to navigate their triggers and cope with stress in healthier ways.

In addressing depression, I combine CBT with interpersonal therapy, focusing not only on the client’s thought patterns but also on their relationships and external influences. Depression can often make individuals feel isolated or disconnected from others, and fostering healthy relationships becomes a key part of the healing process. Through therapy, clients are able to rebuild their self-worth and reconnect with their passions, goals, and sense of purpose.

Trauma-Informed Practice

Working with trauma survivors is an area of counselling that I find deeply meaningful. Many individuals come to therapy after enduring profound loss, abuse, or life-altering events that have left lasting scars. As a trauma-informed therapist, I approach each client with the utmost sensitivity and care, ensuring that their healing journey is one that they control.

Trauma is complex and often deeply rooted in the nervous system, which is why I use a combination of somatic practices, mindfulness, and talk therapy to help clients feel safe and in control. My approach is gradual, as I work closely with clients to ensure that they do not feel overwhelmed or retraumatized in the process of exploring their past. Together, we focus on building resilience, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and ultimately creating a life that feels secure and hopeful again.

Grief and Loss

The experience of loss is universal, yet everyone processes grief differently. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or even the loss of a life dream, grief can be an incredibly painful and isolating process. In my work with clients who are grieving, I emphasize the importance of honouring their own unique process of mourning. I support clients in finding ways to express their grief, process their feelings, and eventually, begin to rebuild a life that carries both the pain and the hope of new beginnings.

Through my grief counselling, clients learn that healing from loss doesn’t mean forgetting or “moving on,” but rather integrating the experience into their lives in a way that allows them to continue forward with strength and peace.

Culturally Competent and Inclusive Practice

In my practice, I am committed to offering culturally competent counselling that respects the diverse backgrounds and identities of my clients. I believe in the importance of understanding the unique cultural, social, and systemic factors that influence my clients’ lives. This includes working with individuals from different ethnic backgrounds, religious and beliefs affiliations.

I strive to create an environment where clients feel seen, respected, and valued for who they are. This means being mindful of the intersections of identity, such as race, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status, and how these intersect to influence mental health. By addressing these factors in therapy, clients can feel more understood and supported in their journey toward healing.

Personal Philosophy and Values

At the heart of my practice is the belief that every individual has the capacity for growth and change. I view challenges and difficulties not as barriers but as opportunities for transformation. My role as a counsellor is to facilitate that transformation by creating an environment of trust, empathy, and mutual respect.

I believe in the inherent worth of every individual and strive to foster a therapeutic relationship that reflects that belief. I practice non-judgment and openness, allowing clients to express their true selves without fear of criticism. This authenticity is key to building a therapeutic bond that can lead to deep healing and personal growth.

Empathy is central to my approach. Understanding my clients’ emotions, perspectives, and lived experiences allows me to connect with them in meaningful ways. It is through this connection that clients can feel truly heard and validated, which is a crucial part of the healing process. My clients are not just their struggles; they are complex, multifaceted individuals, and my work involves honouring their full humanity in every session.

Impact of Therapy and Client Success Stories
Transformative Client Journeys

Over the years, I have been privileged to witness the incredible growth and resilience of my clients. One particular case that stands out is that of a young woman who had been struggling with severe social anxiety for many years. When she first came to me, she could barely leave her home, and her relationships had become strained due to her overwhelming fear of judgment and rejection. Through a combination of CBT, exposure therapy, and mindfulness, we worked together to gradually desensitize her to her triggers and rebuild her confidence.

After several months of therapy, she began to reclaim her social life, finding joy in reconnecting with friends and even attending social events she had once avoided. Her journey was one of small but consistent victories, each step forward reinforcing her belief in her own strength.

Another memorable client was a man in his late 40s who had experienced a deep depression following the loss of his spouse. Grief had consumed him, and he felt unable to find meaning in life without his partner. Through our sessions, we worked on processing his grief, allowing him to feel his emotions without being overwhelmed by them. In time, he was able to reconnect with the activities he once loved and find a renewed sense of purpose in his life. His healing journey did not erase the pain of his loss, but it allowed him to carry that pain in a way that no longer dominated his existence.

Impact of Therapy and Client Success Stories
Overcoming Trauma and Rebuilding Life

In my practice, I have seen the transformative power of therapy in the lives of trauma survivors. One particular client, a woman in her mid-30s, had experienced multiple traumas throughout her life, including childhood abuse and intimate partner violence. When she first came to therapy, she was in a constant state of hypervigilance, unable to relax or trust anyone. Her trauma had left her feeling disconnected from her own body, and she struggled with both emotional numbness and intense bouts of fear and anxiety.

Our work together began slowly, with a focus on creating a safe space where she could explore her feelings without feeling overwhelmed. Using a trauma-informed approach, I helped her reconnect with her body through mindfulness exercises and grounding techniques. We also explored how her body was holding onto the trauma, incorporating Somatic Therapy to release tension and process the pain stored in her muscles and nervous system.

As she gradually felt safer in her body and in our therapeutic relationship, we began to address the cognitive and emotional impact of the trauma. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) allowed her to challenge the negative beliefs she had developed about herself as a result of the abuse—beliefs that she was unworthy of love or that she would never be safe again. Over time, she was able to reframe these beliefs and develop a more compassionate and empowering narrative about herself.

Through this process, she began to rebuild her life. She started engaging in activities she once enjoyed, formed healthier relationships, and, most importantly, regained a sense of agency and control over her own life. Her journey was long and challenging, but the progress she made was a testament to her resilience and the power of therapy to heal deep wounds.

Helping Adolescents Navigate Identity and Mental Health

Adolescence can be a particularly difficult time, with issues such as identity, peer pressure, family dynamics, and academic stress all contributing to a young person’s mental health. I have worked with many adolescents who struggled with anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues, often exacerbated by bullying, social media, or feelings of not fitting in. One such client was a 19-year-old girl who had been dealing with severe depression and self-harm behaviours. Her relationship with her parents was strained, and she felt isolated from her peers at school.

In therapy, we worked on building her self-awareness and helping her develop coping strategies for her emotional distress. I used a combination of CBT and Person-Centred Therapy to help her learn emotional regulation skills and feel supported in expressing his thoughts and feelings without judgment.

By exploring her interests, values, and sense of identity, she began to gain more clarity on who she was outside of the expectations of others. She also learned how to communicate her emotions more effectively, which improved her relationship with her parents. Over time, she became more engaged in school and social activities, found a new sense of belonging, and stopped engaging in self-harm behaviours.

Couples Therapy and Relationship Healing

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is helping couples navigate their relationship challenges and rebuild intimacy and trust. One couple I worked with had been married for over 10 years, but their relationship had deteriorated due to poor communication, unresolved conflicts, and a growing sense of emotional distance. They came to therapy on the verge of separation, unsure if their relationship could be salvaged.

In our sessions, I used Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help them identify and understand the emotional patterns that were contributing to their disconnection. By focusing on their emotional needs and vulnerabilities, we were able to uncover the underlying fears and unmet needs that were driving their conflicts. Through this process, the couple began to see each other in a new light—not as adversaries but as partners who had been struggling to communicate their deepest feelings.

Over time, they learned to express their emotions more openly and to listen to each other with greater empathy and understanding. They also developed new strategies for resolving conflicts in a way that honored both of their perspectives. Through the healing process, they were able to rebuild their emotional connection and strengthen their bond, ultimately choosing to stay together and continue working on their relationship.

This experience reinforced my belief that relationships, while challenging, can be healed when both partners are willing to engage in the process of understanding, communication, and emotional vulnerability.

Expanding Specializations

One area I am particularly interested in exploring further is the intersection between mental health and physical well-being. More research is emerging about the connection between the mind and body, particularly in how chronic stress, trauma, and emotional distress can manifest as physical symptoms. I plan to deepen my understanding of integrative approaches that combine mental health care with physical health practices, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), yoga therapy, and nutrition.

Additionally, I am eager to expand my work with specific populations, such as individuals from marginalized communities who may face additional barriers to accessing mental health care. This includes people from racial and ethnic minority backgrounds, and those with disabilities. I am committed to creating an inclusive practice that addresses the unique challenges these communities face and provides culturally competent, trauma-informed care.

This case, like many others, demonstrates how therapy can help adolescents navigate the complexities of their emotional world, providing them with the tools they need to manage their mental health and develop a strong sense of self.

Community Outreach and Education

In the coming years, I also hope to increase my involvement in community outreach and mental health education. Mental health awareness is a crucial part of reducing stigma and encouraging people to seek help when they need it. I envision offering workshops, group therapy sessions, and educational seminars in local schools, workplaces, and community centres to promote mental well-being and emotional resilience.

By working directly within the community, I believe I can help create a culture of openness and support around mental health issues, encouraging more people to prioritize their emotional well-being and seek help when needed.

Continued Professional Development

As a lifelong learner, I am committed to ongoing professional development. I regularly attend workshops, conferences, and training sessions to stay updated on the latest advancements in therapeutic approaches. In the future, I plan to pursue further training in advanced trauma therapies, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which has shown significant success in helping individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences.

I also look forward to further developing my skills in working with couples and families, particularly in areas such as attachment theory and systemic family therapy. These modalities provide powerful frameworks for understanding how relational dynamics influence individual mental health and how healing can take place within the context of relationships.

Legacy as a Counsellor

Ultimately, my vision for the future is rooted in my desire to make a lasting impact on the lives of my clients and the broader community. I hope to continue building a practice that is known for its warmth, inclusivity, and effectiveness in helping individuals and families heal. My goal is to leave a legacy of compassionate care, where every person who walks through my door feels seen, heard, and supported in their journey toward healing.

I am deeply passionate about my work as a therapeutic counsellor, and I look forward to continuing to evolve, grow, and learn in the years to come. It is my belief that therapy has the power to change lives, and I am honoured to be part of that process for so many individuals.

I am currently welcoming individual clients at a rate of £60 per 50min session and couples/family at £80 per 60min session.

I do offer a discounted rate (on all fees) to students, Low income, OAPs, Refugees, and Unemployed which is negotiable at the discretion of myself and the client.

I work from 10 am to 8 pm Monday to Friday and I can also offer weekend sessions online and face to face if needed.