Meet Ilana

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A close-up portrait of Ilana Laps with curly red hair, blue eyes, and a gentle smile, resting her cheek on her hand.
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I help people reconnect with themselves, so life can feel more spacious, meaningful, and alive again.

Ilana Laps with curly red hair sitting indoors, looking to her left with a contemplative expression, wearing a black top and a black jacket.
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Hi, I’m Ilana

I’ve been a therapist for over 16 years.

My training spans both Western psychology and Eastern traditions. I’ve been shaped by scientific, philosophical, meditative and animist approaches to healing.

Much of what I’ve learned has come from sitting with people, and being willing to learn from each one.

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My Dream

For many years now, I’ve had the privilege of fulfilling my dream: creating a safe and supportive space where people can share their stories, make sense of their experiences, and reclaim a sense of agency in their lives.

No two stories are ever the same - and yet, within each one, our shared humanity is unmistakable. A connecting thread of common needs.

Earning my credentials has been the adventure of a lifetime -but the deepest learning has come from walking alongside my clients. Their courage continues to fill me with lasting gratitude and hope.

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Qualifications


Master of Counselling and Psychological Health, LaTrobe University, Melbourne


Master of Media, Culture & Communication, New York University, New York


BA Hons, Literature, University of London (UCL)


Diploma of Transpersonal Counselling



Certificate of Emotion Focused Therapy


Certificate in Sandplay Therapy for Children and Adults


I continue my training each year — for more on my areas of focus, see Therapy Approaches.

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I believe therapy should feel real.

Not clinical, not scripted.

A place where you can bring your whole self; the grief, humour, rage, confusion, and be met with curiosity and care.

This work matters to me because I know what it’s like to feel lost. I’ve spent years on both sides of the chair, experiencing immigration and uprootedness, breakdowns and breakthroughs, marriage and separation, international moves, IVF, and motherhood. I hold a large, compassionate space for people to be exactly where they are, as they are, and I respect the courage it takes to show up.

If you're looking for a space that honours the emotional, the human, and the spiritual, I hope I can help.

Ready to Begin?

Ilana provides a safe, steady place to do honest work. You don’t need to be ready for everything. Just ready to begin.