
Ceyda Kıyak
Psychologist & Academic

Hi, I am Ceyda Kiyak. I am an international Psychologist and Academic with over 15 years of experience. I have always been fascinated by how human beings think, feel, and behave. This curiosity grew into a lifelong aspiration: to help others understand themselves more deeply and connect with what truly matters to them. My career began in 2010 as a Play Therapist, supporting children and families. Over the years, I specialised in a range of therapy approaches, expanding my work to support adults facing challenges related to mood disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol and substance use disorders, trauma, interpersonal issues, and sexual wellbeing.
Alongside my clinical practice, I have built an academic career with an MSc in Italy, an MRes and a PhD in the UK. This dual expertise allows me to integrate evidence-based psychological research into clinical work, while ensuring that my research remains closely connected to real-world psychological needs. As a psychologist, I aim to create a safe, and collaborative space in which people can make sense of their experiences, strengthen psychological flexibility, and move toward changes that are both meaningful and sustainable in their everyday lives. As an academic, I aim to contribute to psychological science in ways that ultimately benefit people through transparent, interdisciplinary, and evidence-based research, while developing innovative approaches that bridge theory, empirical work, and real-world application.
Having lived in five countries, Türkiye, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands and the UK, I carry a lived understanding of migration, belonging, and cultural transition, which deeply shapes how I approach psychological work, research, and human connection.
When I am not working, I recharge with nature, seaside walks, board games, and good deep conversations. Growing up by the Aegean coast in Izmir left me permanently attached to the sea. I love spending time around all kinds of animals, and appreciating the small joys of everyday life. Learning new languages and engaging with different cultures continues to shape how I see the world and relate to others. Social issues matter deeply to me, and I strive to become a better version of myself. In many ways, whether in or outside of therapy, my aspiration is the same: to accompany people on their journey of growth and wellbeing.
Education
2025
PhD in Psychology
University of East Anglia
Norwich, UK
2022
MRes in Computing and Informatics (Digital Health)
Bournemouth University
Bournemouth, UK
2021
MSc in Experimental Psychology
University of Milan-Bicocca
Milan, Italy
2010
BSc in Psychology
Izmir University of Economics
Izmir, Turkiye