Maria Ilinsky
Psychotherapist in London
Individual • £120 • 50 min
Couples • £200 • 1 h 20 min
First session 15 min free
Individual • £100 • 50 min
Couples • £180 • 1 h 20 min
First session 15 min free
Consultation via Zoom
What clients say
My practice in Marylebone
I see clients in a comfortable consulting room at my office in Marylebone:
85 Wimpole street, W1G 9RJ
Online sessions
We agree on a convenient time for your appointment. I'll then send you a confirmation via chat
On the morning of your appointment, I'll send you the Zoom meeting link
At the scheduled time we connect for your session via the link
For our session, it's important that we can see and hear each other clearly.
I conduct online sessions from a dedicated consulting room with high-speed internet, using a professional camera and headset.
This ensures you can see and hear me clearly.
For your online session, you'll need a private space where you won't be disturbed, plus a smartphone or computer with Zoom installed.
First consultation
15 minutes is free
Your first consultation is free, lasts 15 minutes and takes place online via Zoom.
This helps you decide if I'm the right psychotherapist for you, whilst I can understand whether I'm able to help.
About me
I'm originally from St Petersburg, Russia where I studied psychology at St Petersburg State University. My degree is recognised by UK ENIC as equivalent to a Bachelor's Honours degree.
Following graduation, I trained in psychotherapy under supervision and co-facilitated therapeutic workshops.
In 2014, I relocated to Israel with my family, where I worked as a psychotherapist at Maccabi Healthcare Services.

In 2022, I moved to the UK and established my private practice in central London, offering individual and couples psychotherapy in-person and online.
My experience to date:
- 10,197 hours of professional training
- 14 years in clinical practice
- 11 years of personal therapy
I regularly participate in professional seminars and conferences of the British Psychological Society.
I meet weekly with a personal therapist and supervisor.
On a personal note, I'm married with two children.
Qualifications and credentials
Questions you might have
How does psychotherapy work?
Psychotherapy works because it facilitates internal change. It helps you find solutions and cope with emotional difficulties. It’s a proven and reliable way to resolve personal challenges and achieve lasting personal transformation.
How often should I attend therapy, and for how long?
Typically, we meet once a week. During difficult periods or if you’d like to intensify the work, we can meet twice weekly. If time or budget are considerations, fortnightly sessions are possible, though less frequent sessions tend to be less effective.
The length of therapy varies according to your needs. Traditional therapy usually involves weekly sessions for one to five years. Anything under a year is generally considered short-term counselling.
How will I know if therapy is helping?
You might notice a subjective sense that things feel better, lighter, or easier. More concretely, you’ll often find you’re able to manage situations that previously felt overwhelming.
I’m not sure what I need help with. Is that alright?
Absolutely. Many people start therapy with a general sense that “something’s not quite right” or “I’m struggling but can’t pinpoint why.” These are perfectly valid starting points for our work together.
I find it hard to talk about personal matters. What if I can’t open up?
That’s completely understandable. You’ll share only what feels comfortable, at your own pace. I work gently and there’s no pressure to disclose anything before you’re ready.
What happens during a session?
We meet either in my practice room in Marylebone or online via Zoom. We’ll talk about what’s troubling you, explore your thoughts and feelings, and sometimes I’ll suggest exercises or techniques that might help.
Where is your practice?
I see clients at my office in Marylebone: 85 Wimpole street, W1G 9RJ
What are your fees?
In-person session — £120, 50 minutes. Online session — £100, 50 minutes. Couples psychotherapy — £200, 1 hour 20 minutes. I offer a free 15-minute initial consultation online.
How do I book an appointment?
Message me on WhatsApp, Text message or call +447784973204. I usually respond to messages within an hour. If I can't answer the phone, I will definitely call back.
How can I pay for sessions?
I’ll send you a secure payment link via our messaging thread. You can pay by Revolut Pay, bank transfer, Apple Pay, or credit/debit card - whichever suits you best.
What’s your cancellation policy?
You’re welcome to cancel or reschedule with 48 hours’ notice at no charge. Unfortunately, if you need to cancel with less than 48 hours’ notice, I’ll need to charge the full session fee.
Do you accept health insurance?
Unfortunately no. I work solely as a private psychotherapist and don’t accept insurance.
Do you offer online sessions?
Yes, I offer online sessions via Zoom for those who prefer or need remote consultations.
How do you handle confidentiality?
Everything you share with me is strictly confidential. I don’t disclose your identity or anything you tell me to anyone. The only exception is my clinical supervisor, with whom I may discuss clinical aspects of our work - but never your surname or identifying details, only your first name and the general nature of what we’re working on.
Can you prescribe medication?
Unfortunately no. Only doctors can prescribe medications in the UK.
What if my question isn’t answered here?
Please message me on WhatsApp, Text message or call +447784973204. I usually respond to messages within an hour. If I can’t answer the phone, I will definitely call back.
My Psychology Blog
How to Stop a Panic Attack: A London Therapist's Evidence-Based Guide
How to stop a panic attack using evidence-based techniques: paced breathing, 5-4-3-2-1 grounding, TIPP skills. A London therapist explains physiology and treatment.
Therapy After Divorce: A London Psychologist's Guide (2026)
Therapy after divorce in London: how to cope with grief, co-parenting, loneliness and identity loss. A practical guide from a Wimpole Street psychologist.
What to Expect in Your First Therapy Session
Wondering what happens in your first therapy session? A London therapist explains what to expect, how to prepare, and why the first step is easier than you think.