Who Am I?

“Hi, I’m Eva Chmelikova, a creative psychotherapeutic counsellor, outdoors enthusiast dedicated to providing a supportive and non-judgmental space where every voice is valued. With an Advanced Diploma in Counselling from Edinburgh and extensive experience in diverse settings – from schools to charitable organisations – I blend evidence-based techniques with creative, mindful practices. My mission is to work collaboratively with you, using thoughtful approaches that range from traditional talk therapy to walk-and-talk sessions in the Scottish outdoors. Together, we can explore the depths of your inner world and illuminate the path to healing.”

My Journey

Jung once said, “Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.” Those words resonated with me early in life—even if their meaning wasn’t immediately clear and eventually guided me to counselling. Exploring art, the subconscious, and the ideas of Jung and other psychotherapeutic theories through integrative counselling studies set me on this path. I completed my Advanced Diploma in Counselling in Edinburgh, and my personal and professional experiences have since enriched my practice.

I’ve had the privilege of working in a variety of settings – from placements with charitable organisations supporting adults and children to a role as a school counsellor and ultimately into my private practice. These experiences, addressing issues like anxiety, depression, relationship dynamics, self-esteem, trauma, existential questions and life transitions, have demonstrated that each person’s journey is distinctive. Every encounter has not only shaped my approach but also deepened my understanding of our shared human experience.

My Approach to Counselling

I work from a pluralistic integrative perspective, meaning our work together is collaborative. Drawing from person-centred, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioural approaches—and sometimes incorporating Gestalt, Jungian psychoanalysis, or creative counselling—I tailor our sessions to what suits you best. Whether we meet face-to-face in the Scottish Borders, connect online from the comfort of your home, or venture out for a walk-and-talk session amidst nature’s tranquility, my aim is to create a setting where you feel safe, understood, and empowered.

My practice primarily focuses on individuals who are facing significant life changes – feeling overwhelmed, stuck or just unsure where to start. I work often with adults who’ve been carrying a lot for too long—grief, anxiety, burnout. I know how heavy that can be. Many of the clients I work with are at some sort of crossroads, searching for their next steps after enduring trauma, loss, long-term stress, illness or life transitions, often searching clarity and support.

Together, we can explore ways to rediscover your path and deepen your self-awareness. Therapy, to me, isn’t about fixing you, it’s about walking with you as you come home to yourself. I’m gentle but real. I listen closely, ask questions that help you go deeper, and create a space where all parts of you are welcome even the messy, unsure, or hurting ones.

My passion for the outdoors naturally led me to walk-and-talk therapy. I find that the simple act of walking in green spaces can help ease the mind and spark insights, reinforcing that healing and clarity often come when we allow ourselves to step outside our usual environment.

Art, Creativity, and Connection

Art has played an influential role in my life and work. I truly believe that creative expression can open up our inner worlds and help bring hidden emotions to light. In the past, I led expressive sessions in Edinburgh’s Meadows Park and at a charitable café known as Forrest Café. These sessions weren’t about artistic skill – they were about expressing oneself in a free, mindful, and supportive environment. Though those gatherings have paused, the idea of combining creative expression with mindfulness remains close to my heart, and I look forward to reawakening that space in the future.

A Glimpse Into My Life

Counselling is not just my profession—it’s a vital part of who I am. I am mostly in a counselling chair, but sometimes to balance the work I do you can find me serving coffee on a sunny day, bringing you a parcel or getting my hands dirty in the fields, as every experience enriches my ability to connect with you on a genuine level. Every person I meet and every story I share becomes part of my own mosaic of life, reminding me that our differences make our journeys all the more valuable.

Let’s Connect

This page is meant to serve not only as an introduction to my practice but also as an inspiration for your own journey. I invite you to browse my blog, where I share insights about the counselling process, creative approaches, and tools to support mental well-being. You can also connect with me on Instagram at @evascounselling.

If something here has resonated with you or if you’re curious about exploring counselling further, I’d love to hear from you. You can schedule an initial consultation (please always get in touch by email as well for confirmation of the appointment) or send me an email. I’m here to offer support, share the journey, and work together toward a balanced, fulfilled life.

I understand that starting therapy can evoke feelings of anxiety, and that’s completely natural. We can work through those feelings together. If you’re interested in taking the next step, feel free to email me for more info or schedule initial consultation.