Gabriela Kalaf Zita

Gabriela Kalaf Zita is a psychodynamic psychotherapist in training, currently working towards a clinical qualification in psychodynamic psychotherapy. She works within The Awareness Centre’s low-cost counselling service in Clapham, providing a confidential and supportive space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences.

Gabriela’s approach is rooted in psychodynamic theory, which seeks to uncover unconscious patterns that influence present-day feelings and relationships. She believes that our past experiences, particularly those from early life, shape how we engage with the world and relate to ourselves and others. By exploring these deeper layers in therapy, clients can gain insight into recurring emotional difficulties, develop self-awareness, and create meaningful change in their lives.

Gabriela works collaboratively with clients, helping them reflect on their inner world at a pace that feels safe and manageable. She understands that therapy can be a challenging yet rewarding process, and she strives to offer a space that is both containing and non-judgmental. Through careful listening and exploration, she supports clients in understanding their struggles, processing difficult emotions, and finding new ways of relating to themselves and others.

Before training as a therapist, Gabriela worked as a lawyer. This experience informs her understanding of the pressures that can arise in high-stress environments, as well as the emotional and psychological impact of demanding professional roles. She has a particular interest in supporting individuals dealing with stress-related challenges, identity struggles, self-esteem issues, emotional regulation difficulties, and relationship dynamics. Her background allows her to bring a nuanced perspective to these concerns, helping clients navigate their personal and professional lives with greater self-compassion and resilience.

Gabriela is passionate about the therapeutic process and the potential it holds for deep emotional growth. She believes that therapy is not only about addressing distress but also about fostering a richer, more fulfilling connection to oneself and others.