Ania Foster Vander Elst
I am a registered and accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I specialise in supporting individuals who are navigating a range of challenges, whether it is dealing with depression, burn out, feelings of being ‘stuck’, trauma, anxiety (health, social, generalised), panic, OCD or phobias. I also work with those facing life transitions or seeking personal growth and greater self-understanding. My approach is tailored to each individual and I work collaboratively with clients to help them develop resilience, find clarity, and build a deeper sense of well-being.
My approach is warm, compassionate and non-judgmental. I believe in creating a close and authentic client-therapist relationship that allows people to feel heard and understood. I strive to build a safe space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings and challenges with openness and curiosity. Together, we develop strategies to move forward. My goal is that by attending therapy, people can become their own therapists so that they can live fulfilled lives in line with their values.
In addition to my core therapeutic modalities – CBT and ACT, I draw on techniques from Schema Focused Therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS) when needed. I hold an MSc in Psychology from the University of St Andrews and a Postgraduate Diploma in CBT from the University of Southampton. I am a member of the British Psychological Society and accredited by the British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapists. To ensure I am providing the best possible care for my clients, I regularly attend supervision and ongoing clinical training.
Outside the therapy room, I believe in embracing life’s many experiences and trying out new activities. I love exploring new natural places, and being in nature reminds me of the importance of balance, connection, and the simple joys in life. These practices help me to stay grounded and present, both in my personal life and within the therapy room, where I aim to bring my full attention and empathy to our work together.
I offer both in-person and online sessions, so you can choose what feels most comfortable for you. In-person sessions are available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10:00am to 2:00pm in Salisbury, and remote sessions are available on Friday from 10:00am to 2:00pm.
Testimonials
I cannot begin to express how grateful I am for finding and working with Ania. She has guided me completely and given me the tools which have helped me transform the outlook and trajectory of my life in the most positive way. Weekly tasks she gives me keep me reflecting on our sessions and this has really helped improve my progress. I honestly could not recommend her or the Salisbury practice enough. Face to Face Client 2025
Following an episode of acute anxiety, I was advised by a doctor to seek counselling. I have been having sessions over the past few months with Ania and have found them very helpful. Resulting from her clear explanations of how key parts of the brain work with regard to responses of anger and anxiety I now understand myself better. With her non-judgemental and supportive approach, Ania has encouraged me to explore my personal values and so enabled me to make changes towards reacting to situations in line with them rather than with anger or fear. Recent challenges have shown me that I can cope with them more calmly and kindly, both to myself and others. There’s a way to go still but I am very hopeful. Face to Face Client 2025
Ania was kind and compassionate. She helped me to see a way through the difficulties I faced and to remember my true priorities in life. A very skilled professional. Highly recommend. Face to Face Client 2025
Ania always treats me with Warmth,compassion, respect and understanding. On each consultation she puts me at ease whilst working with me to help understand and explore what I need to do to,to assist in my recovery I always leave her therapy sessions with a positive and forward thinking approach and always feeling better than when I went in. Face to Face Client 2025
Registered with Health Insurance Providers; AXA HEALTH / AVIVA / WPA
My fee is £100 per session.
If you feel ready to start exploring how therapy can help you, please feel free to reach out. I would be honoured to support you on your journey.