About Me

MEET AYO POPOOLA

I am an integrative counsellor in private practice with a Level 4 Diploma in Counselling and a Diploma in Counselling Supervision. With over three years of post-qualification experience, I have supported adults through a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges, helping them navigate difficult times with compassion and confidence.

I am a registered member of both the Association of Christians in Counselling and Linked Professions (ACC) and the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and am listed on their Professional Standards Authority (PSA) Accredited Registers.

As a member of both professional bodies, I adhere to their ethical frameworks and professional standards, ensuring that my practice is grounded in integrity, confidentiality, respect and a commitment to ongoing professional development. You can find out more about these professional bodies and the standards they uphold by visiting the ACC website: https://www.acc-uk.org/about-acc/. and the BACP website: www.bacp.co.uk

My integrative approach draws on Person-Centred Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I believe that each person is unique and that no single therapeutic model can fully reflect the complexity of human experience.

By combining different evidence-based approaches, I tailor therapy to your individual needs, circumstances, and goals, creating a therapeutic experience that is both collaborative and personalised.
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem, bereavement, trauma, relationship difficulties, life transitions and many other concerns.

My aim is to provide a warm, safe and non-judgemental environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences at your own pace. Together, we will deepen your self-awareness, strengthen your resilience and support lasting, meaningful change.
In addition, I recognise that faith and spirituality can play an important role in a person’s identity, values and life experiences. As a Christian, I welcome conversations about faith and spirituality for those who wish to include these aspects within the therapeutic process. Whether faith is a source of comfort, uncertainty, questioning, or personal meaning, it can be explored in a respectful, compassionate, and client-led way. Equally, I welcome clients of other faiths, beliefs, and backgrounds and will always work in a way that respects your individual worldview.

My hope is that therapy will provide you with the opportunity not only to overcome the challenges you are facing, but also to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, develop healthier ways of coping and move towards a life that feels more authentic, purposeful and fulfilling

MY STORY

My journey of self-discovery commenced following the devastating loss of a family member. The tragedy stopped me in my tracks and compelled me to ask myself if there was more to life than my world at the time. I questioned everything about myself, it soon became evident that I had been living a life primarily dedicated to pleasing others, yet this pursuit did not come with true fulfilment rather it left me disconnected from my authentic self.  Don’t get me wrong, there is no harm in pleasing others, only let it come from a place of authenticity.

In the course of my journey, I found inner strength necessary to begin to engage with life. I call it  “showing up in life.” I am forever grateful to the Counsellors that worked with me and started me on this quest. I terminated my first therapeutic relationship without warning or a goodbye, little did I know until two years later, the impact her 4 sessions with me had.  Whilst  I do not consider myself to have arrived, I have come a long way on this path of self-discovery. Now, one of my life’s foremost ambitions is to assist others in embarking on their own journeys. So, I pose these questions to you: Who are you and what is your purpose in this lifetime?

If my story strikes a cord in you or my questions have got you thinking, contact me today at Identi5.

EXPERTISE

Life is full of ups and downs and can be difficult to navigate. Our experiences shape us whether we like it or not but we can be intentional in how we allow ourselves to be shaped.

Our practice is built on empathy, trust and a dedication to your well-being. We create a non-judgmental environment where you can freely express yourself and explore your issues. Our goal is to empower you with the tools and insights needed to lead a more authentic and fulfilling life.

My Expertise