Ilaria Calussi , BACP

Ilaria Calussi is a systemic and relational psychotherapist whose practice draws on more than 25 years of experience across mental health settings. Trained in family therapy, gestalt therapy, trauma-informed CBT, therapeutic play, clinical supervision, and autism and ADHD specialist approaches, she adapts methods to meet the needs of individuals, couples, and families.

Her background includes roles at organisations such as Place2Be, Mind, Family Action, Social Care, and the NHS, where she has managed school-based services and supervised children and families social care teams. She currently works at the National Autism Unit (NHS), supporting autistic people and their families, while also maintaining a private practice and lecturing in psychology and counselling at the Open University.

Ilaria works with couples, families, and individuals on relationship and family issues, attachment and trauma, neurodiversity, gender and sexuality, stress, and anxiety. Her approach is rooted in systemic and intersectional practice, integrating attachment theory, neuroscience, and creative methods to support change through connection. Personal experience of solo parenting, neurodivergence, and queer relationships informs a grounded, empathetic style focused on helping people build resilience and find meaningful shifts in their lives.

She holds accreditation with the BACP, the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, reflecting professional standards in counselling and psychotherapy.

Attachment and CBT approaches for online therapy

Attachment-Based Therapy focuses on how early bonds and relational patterns influence current emotions and relationships. It helps clients explore connection, repair ruptures, and build more secure ways of relating to partners and family members.

Client-Centered Therapy places the person at the heart of the process, emphasizing empathy, active listening, and the therapist's nonjudgmental presence. This approach supports self-exploration, emotional understanding, and personal growth in a way that respects each client’s pace and perspective.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) offers practical tools to identify and shift unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns, supporting work on anxiety, stress, and trauma-related responses.

Finding the right combination of approaches is part of the therapeutic journey. Ilaria works collaboratively with clients and licensed professionals to tailor methods to individual goals, needs, and preferences, adjusting the focus as progress unfolds.

Online therapy with Ilaria is available via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. These options make therapy more flexible and accessible, allowing clients to engage from different locations and choose the format that best fits their schedule and comfort while maintaining continuity of care with experienced therapists.