Dr Levent Yurdakul is a clinical psychologist based in Guildford, Surrey. He is a highly experienced clinician with over 25 years experience in study, research and clinical practice in the overlapping fields of clinical psychology, psychotherapy, neuropsychology and neuroscience. He holds a doctorate in clinical psychology, a PG diploma in Clinical Neuropsychology, an MSc in Neuroscience and is an accredited therapist and supervisor in Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT).
Dr Yurdakul works with clients across the lifespan, helping them with the challenges of transition to teens, adulthood and older age. The psychological support provided has the primary aim of developing effective coping mechanisms and emotional resilience in the context of age, life circumstances, events or difficulties. His approach to therapy is collaborative, empathic and focused.
Dr Yurdakul treats complex difficulties such as recurrent depressions, Bipolar II Disorder, trauma, emotional instability or chronic physical illness. He also works routinely with teenagers and adults with ADHD with particular emphasis on addressing the psychosocial and executive functioning difficulties associated with this condition. He also treats more common mental health issues such as anxiety, stress and low mood.
Approach
Dr Yurdakul’s broad aim in his psychological work is to promote insight, the ability to cope adaptively, and psychological well-being whatever the clients’ circumstances may be. He utilises Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT). His approach is integrative and also informed by a range of psychological orientations such as psychodynamic and attachment, humanistic and systemic theories.
Dr Yurdakul assigns particular importance to relational patterns, personality and the impact of life experiences. In the early sessions developing a good therapeutic relationship forms the basis for exploring the unique story of each client. The process of supporting each client to tell their story leads to a shared and more coherent understanding of those experiences informed by psychological theory (the psychological formulation). This forms the basis for agreeing the goals of psychological therapy and beginning to address the presenting concerns/difficulties.
Experience
In the early part of his career, Dr Yurdakul trained in integrative psychotherapy with Professor Petruska Clarkson, one of the pioneers in the field. He also completed post-graduate training and research looking at the role of stress hormones and life events in depression at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience. Dr Yurdakul then went on to complete his Clinical Psychology Doctorate and worked as a clinical psychologist in the NHS for 13 years. He has undertaken further training in clinical neuropsychology and psychological therapies and worked across a very wide range of mental health settings within the NHS and private sector. This experience has honed his skills to help those with more common through to complex psychological difficulties.
Dr Yurdakul has expertise in the treatment of complex depressions which include Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia), and mixed mood states such as Bipolar II Disorder. Dr Yurdakul applies an adapted and evidence-based form of IPT known as Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) which is effective for the treatment of Bipolar II Disorder. Over the years he has also increasingly worked with clients presenting with emotional instability and a range of difficulties associated with impulsivity.
Since 2014, Dr Yurdakul has worked exclusively as a clinical psychologist in the private sector. He continues to develop his practice in London and Surrey. As a practitioner psychologist regulated by the HCPC he is engaged in a continuous process of study, training and supervision to maintain and improve the quality of his work. Dr Yurdakul regularly writes and contributes to articles. He recently contributed to the article ‘Can mental health problems and stress affect your memory?’ Read the article here.
Psychological therapy
- Depressions (including cyclothymia and Bipolar II Disorder)
- Difficulties associated with emotional instability
- Emotional regulation difficulties including self-harm and addictive behaviours
- Anxiety disorders (including OCD and phobias)
- Trauma and stress related disorders
- Loss, bereavement and transitions across the lifespan
- Relationships difficulties, interpersonal disputes and anger
- School related difficulties such as behavioural problems, social integration and academic performance
- Difficulties associated with separation, divorce and co-parenting
- Physical illness, chronic pain and long term conditions
- Post-concussional syndrome (mild traumatic brain injury)
- Dementias, stroke and neurological conditions
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders such as Autistic Spectrum Disorders
- ADHD
Appointments
- Dr Yurdakul practices in Guildford on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.
- He is registered with Aviva, Allianz, BUPA, Cigna, Preferred Health, Vitality and WPA.
- Prior to an initial appointment, a brief telephone conversation can be scheduled to discuss circumstances and needs.
- The details of the therapeutic contract would be discussed and agreed during the first consultation.
- Where necessary sessions can be conducted via Face Time and Skype.
- For longer-term work, fees can be negotiated.
- A limited number of reduced-rate sessions based on personal circumstances.
- He offers supervision, training and consultancy.
- Dr Yurdakul prepares expert witness reports for a range of conditions/circumstances.
Qualifications and Accreditations
- Accredited Interpersonal Psychotherapist and Supervisor with The IPT UK Network
- PG Diploma in Applied Clinical Neuropsychology
- Doctorate in Clinical Psychology
- MSc Neuroscience
- BSc (Hons) Psychology
Cancellation Policy
Appointments missed without 48 hours notice will incur the full session fee.