Irena Pancer

Many people come to therapy when something in their life no longer feels right, whether that is anxiety, relationship difficulties, loss, the impact of past experiences, or a sense of feeling stuck or disconnected.

Within a confidential and supportive therapeutic relationship, I work with individuals to explore how they understand themselves, their lives and their relationships. Together, we can develop greater awareness and self-acceptance and begin moving toward life with more hope and possibility.

My Approach

I am an integrative psychotherapist with a grounding in existential, relational and trauma-informed approaches. 

My work combines a broad knowledge of therapeutic methods grounded in clinical research with the existential tradition, which explores how to live in this world, among it all. Many of the struggles we face are deeply human ones, questions of identity, belonging, freedom, loss and meaning. Therapy offers a space to explore these experiences safely and honestly. A trauma-informed perspective is central to my work. Difficult experiences, particularly early in life, can shape how we see ourselves and others. Together, we can bring greater awareness to these perceptions and create the conditions for integration and transformation.

The Heart of the Work

At the centre of therapy is our relationship and collaboration. Therapy is not about being told how to live your life, but about gaining clarity and confidence in your own choices.

The aim is to move from feeling that life is simply happening to you, towards becoming a more active participant in how you want to live. While therapy can involve facing and releasing difficult truths and feelings, it is also about recognising your strengths and the possibilities for change that already exist within you.

Specialist areas

• Anxiety, depression or chronic stress
• Low self-worth, shame or self-criticism
• Relationship difficulties and patterns of co-dependency
• The impact of past trauma, neglect or emotional injury
• Life transitions, identity questions or feelings of being stuck
• Loneliness, disconnection or loss of meaning
• Bereavement and difficult life events

I recognise that each person experiences the issues above uniquely and might describe them differently. You may have your own reasons for seeking therapy, and I am open to what you want to bring into the room.

Background

I trained at Regent’s University London, regarded for its thorough and rigorous approach to psychotherapy training, and have worked in both private practice and mental health organisations. 

My background in the creative arts and education contributes to bringing attuned communication, curiosity and an imaginative approach to facilitating your therapy journey.

Having lived in London for much of my life, alongside formative experiences in Europe and extended time in South America and Australia, I have developed a genuine appreciation for the diversity of human experience. I remain attentive to the cultural, social and personal contexts that shape my clients. Therapy is about creating a space where your personal history and perspective can be explored with receptiveness and respect.

I offer psychotherapy in English and Croatian.

Qualifications and memberships: MBACP, MA in Psychotherapy, PGDip in Psychotherapy and Counselling, member of The Society of Existential Analysis

Beginning to work together

The first session is a chance for us to meet and talk about what has brought you to therapy, at a pace that feels comfortable for you. It is also an opportunity to see how it feels for us to work together and to ask any questions about therapy or my approach. The session lasts 50 minutes and is charged at the standard fee.

If you prefer, I also offer a free 15-minute introductory video call before booking to help you decide whether working together feels right.

I work in person and online. My in-person session fee in Hackney practice is £75. I have a limited number of concession slots for individuals who are eligible, just ask.

I offer a space to explore what matters to you. Please email or text me if you would like to discuss how we might work together.