Mayowa Ishola | Integrative Counsellor in Waterford

Qualification MA Counselling and Psychotherapy,
APCP

Experience……..

Approach My Therapeutic Approach

I believe that therapy begins with feeling seen, heard and understood.

As an integrative psychotherapist, I take a person-centred and relational approach, drawing from different therapeutic perspectives to meet each client as an individual. I recognise that no two people experience life in the same way, and I believe therapy should be shaped around your unique experiences, needs and goals.

My work is particularly informed by attachment, emotional regulation and our relationships with ourselves and others. Together, we can explore how past experiences, family relationships, cultural expectations and significant life experiences may have influenced the way you understand yourself and navigate relationships today.

I also recognise the importance of culture, identity and faith in shaping our experiences. As a Black Muslim therapist, I understand that aspects of identity, culture, family and faith can sometimes be deeply connected to our emotional wellbeing. Where it feels meaningful and appropriate for you, these parts of your identity can be explored within therapy with openness and respect.

I am especially passionate about creating a culturally sensitive space for people from ethnic minority backgrounds who may sometimes feel that their experiences are difficult to explain or are not fully understood within traditional therapeutic spaces. You do not need to leave parts of yourself at the door when you enter therapy.

At the same time, Solara Therapy is a space for everyone. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, relationships, self-esteem, emotional overwhelm, life transitions or simply feel that something needs to change, we can work together to understand what is happening beneath the surface.

I see therapy as a collaborative journey. You are the expert on your own life, and my role is to walk alongside you — offering curiosity, compassion and a safe space to explore the parts of your experience that may be difficult to navigate alone.

My hope is that therapy can help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself, recognise patterns that may no longer serve you, build greater self-compassion and move towards relationships and a life that feel more aligned with who you are.

You don’t have to have all the answers before you begin. Sometimes, therapy is simply the place where we begin to find them.