Derya Durmaz
Dr
PhD, MA, BA, MSc (in progress), Advanced Floortime, Level 3 Sensory Integration Therapy
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Hello and welcome — I’m glad you’re here. My work is dedicated to understanding and supporting children, young people, and families through a holistic and evidence-based approach. I combine psychology, education, and neuroscience to help every individual reach their fullest potential — emotionally, socially, and developmentally. I hold a BA in Psychological Counselling and an MA in Early Childhood Studies from the University of Leeds, specialising in Special Educational Needs. I completed my PhD in Early Childhood Education at the University of Warwick, where I focused on the English education system and how it shapes early learning experiences. Alongside my academic work, I have undertaken a wide range of professional training, including a Child Psychology Diploma, Childcare and Education Certificate, Sensory Integration Certificate, and Floortime Advanced Level courses. I am currently completing a second master’s degree in Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuropsychology, further deepening my understanding of how the brain influences learning and behaviour. Last year, I also obtained a Neurofeedback Certificate, and I am now deeply focused on using Neurofeedback therapy to help ease symptoms of ADHD (including hyperactivity), OCD, exam anxiety, insomnia and sleep disorders, as well as brain fog, particularly in women experiencing menopause. I hold an up-to-date Advanced Level Safeguarding certificate and a current DBS check, ensuring that my practice meets the highest standards of safety and professionalism. My approach is multidisciplinary and child / individual-centred, meaning I look at the whole picture — the emotional, social, sensory, and cognitive needs of each individual. I believe every person deserves to be seen, heard, and supported in a way that reflects their unique strengths and challenges. Whether you are a parent seeking guidance, an educator looking for collaboration, or an individual wanting to understand yourself or your child better, my goal is to provide compassionate, science-based support tailored to your needs.
My Therapeutic Approach My approach is integrative and evidence-based, combining principles from psychology, neuroscience, and education to create personalised support for each individual. I believe that every person’s development is unique, and effective support must address the whole individual — emotionally, cognitively, socially, and physically. Drawing on my background in psychological counselling, early childhood education, and cognitive neuroscience, I use a multidisciplinary, child- and family-centred framework. This means I work collaboratively with families, educators, and professionals to understand the full context of a person’s needs and strengths. I integrate methods from: Developmental and Cognitive Psychology – understanding how thinking, learning, and emotions evolve across life stages. Sensory Integration and Floortime – supporting emotional regulation, attention, and relational development through play and sensory-based techniques. Neurofeedback Therapy – helping to improve self-regulation and ease symptoms such as ADHD, anxiety, sleep difficulties, and focus challenges through brain-based feedback training. Humanistic and Strengths-Based Approaches – fostering self-esteem, resilience, and positive growth by focusing on each individual’s capabilities and potential. My practice is holistic, inclusive, and compassionate, informed by the latest research and guided by empathy and respect. Whether working with a young child, an adolescent, or an adult, my goal is to create a safe and nurturing space that encourages understanding, healing, and growth.
I am bilingual in Turkish and English, and my academic and professional qualifications have been gained and practised in both languages. This allows me to provide culturally sensitive and inclusive support for families and individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Kensington Chiswick