A warm welcome. I am Elena Stefani Gorbounova, a certified Existential Psychotherapist with over ten years of experience helping adults navigate life's challenges with greater understanding, resilience, and purpose.

Born in Moscow in 1967, my life has taken me across different cultures and countries. Having lived in Russia, Sweden, and the United Kingdom—and calling London home since 2000—I have developed a deep appreciation for the diverse experiences, values, and perspectives that shape each person's unique story. This international background enables me to work sensitively with clients from a wide range of cultural and professional backgrounds.

My academic journey began at Moscow State University, where I completed my university education. I later undertook five years of specialist training in Existential Analysis with GLE International in London, qualifying as an Existential Psychotherapist.

My therapeutic approach is rooted in the work of Professor Alfred Längle, whose model of Existential Analysis grew from the pioneering ideas of his teacher and mentor, Dr. Viktor Frankl. Frankl, founder of Logotherapy, is recognised as one of the most influential psychotherapists of the twentieth century. His work transformed our understanding of human resilience, demonstrating that even in the face of suffering, people can discover meaning, purpose, and the freedom to choose their response to life's circumstances. These principles continue to inspire and guide my work today.

I believe that therapy offers much more than relief from emotional distress. It is an opportunity to pause, reflect, and reconnect with yourself—to understand who you are, what truly matters to you, and how you want to live. My role is to provide a safe, warm, and confidential space where you feel heard without judgement and supported in exploring your thoughts, emotions, relationships, and life experiences.

Over the past decade, I have worked with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, trauma, burnout, life transitions, low self-esteem, and a sense of emptiness or loss of meaning. Every therapeutic relationship is unique, and I tailor my approach to meet your individual needs, working collaboratively and at a pace that feels right for you.

As a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), I practise in accordance with its Ethical Framework, ensuring that my work is professional, ethical, respectful, and confidential. I remain committed to ongoing professional development to provide the highest standard of care.

I offer psychotherapy in both English and Russian, allowing you to communicate in the language that feels most natural and comfortable for you.

Choosing a therapist is an important and personal decision. My aim is to build a genuine therapeutic relationship founded on trust, empathy, and mutual respect. Whether you are facing a particular difficulty or seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, I offer a supportive space where meaningful change can emerge and where you can move towards a more authentic and fulfilling life.