I am licensed in the UK with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self-esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seek a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
I would describe myself as a responsible, enthusiastic, and deeply empathetic person who cares about supporting others through life’s challenges. At the heart of my work is the belief that every person has the potential to grow, heal, and discover their inner strength. Sometimes, they just need the right space and guidance to do so.
In the therapy room, I bring warmth, openness, and curiosity. I see my role as walking alongside you, creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can express yourself freely and honestly. My approach is person-centred and rooted in empathy, which means I listen carefully, meet you where you are, and work with you to find the path forward that feels right for you.
I am particularly passionate about helping people build self-confidence, regulate their emotions, and find a deeper sense of meaning and purpose in life. My background in both counselling and positive psychology allows me to support clients in processing difficulties such as depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, trauma, or stress, while also focusing on strengths, resilience, and personal growth.
Beyond therapy, I am someone who values connection, communication, and lifelong learning. My varied life experiences, from working as an interpreter and advocate to managing a business, have shaped me into someone who understands different walks of life and can relate to people from diverse backgrounds.
My goal is always the same: to empower you to feel heard, supported, and capable of making the changes you want to see in your life. Together, we can work not only on overcoming challenges but also on building a future that feels fulfilling and true to you.
Additional areas of focus: Body image, Communication problems, Control issues, Divorce and separation, Forgiveness, Guilt and shame, Isolation / loneliness, Life purpose, Panic disorder and panic attacks, Post-traumatic stress, Self-love, Social anxiety and phobia
Clinical approaches: Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Existential Therapy, Imago Relationship Therapy
BACP Therapist - Registered Member MBACP #407938
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Maria Pencheva. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
I think Maria has been excellent so far. I've only been using Betterhelp for around 3 weeks and I've already noticed a marked improvement in my overall mental health. Thank you Maria!
Written on May 21, 2026 after therapy with Maria for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, and self esteem
A thoughtful and supportive entry into thinking my way through difficult challenges. Meeting Maria is a great relief. She makes me far braver. A great start!
Written on May 19, 2026 after therapy with Maria for 2 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, anger management, and career difficulties
She is an amazing therapist who listens fully and deeply to what I am saying. Her questions really encourage me to look deeper into my challenges and direct me towards clarity.
Written on Nov 07, 2025 after therapy with Maria for 2 weeks on issues concerning family conflicts, trauma and abuse, anger management, and compassion fatigue
Maria Has been a fantastic support. She listens and is able to ask some deep questions that have really helped me reframe a lot of the things I needed to think through. She is a joy to speak with.
Written on Aug 19, 2025 after therapy with Maria for 2 weeks