Zahra Shariff

I am a psychologist, organisational consultant and executive coach. My work is grounded in psychoanalytic and systemic thinking, with a particular interest in how early experiences, identity, culture and power shape the way we relate to ourselves and others.

In therapy, I offer a reflective, containing space where we can think together about what feels difficult, stuck or painful. I pay attention not only to what is said, but also to patterns, emotions and dynamics that may be operating beneath the surface. Often, the challenges we face in relationships, at work or in our roles have roots in earlier experiences that have not yet had space to be understood.

I work with anxiety, low mood, burnout, identity struggles, experiences of exclusion, workplace stress and difficulties in relationships. As a Black female psychologist with leadership experience in the NHS and public sector, I am attuned to the emotional impact of working within systems that may feel unsafe, invalidating or overwhelming.

Alongside therapy, I offer coaching for leaders and professionals who want to develop emotional intelligence, resilience and clarity. Coaching with me is reflective rather than performance-driven. It creates space to think about authority, boundaries, values and the unconscious pressures that come with the role.

Overall, I aim to create psychological safety and a space where you can feel seen, heard and thought about, without judgement.

I offer one-to-one therapy sessions online and, where agreed, in person.

I work both short-term and open-ended, depending on what feels most appropriate for you. Some clients come with a specific focus in mind; others look to explore patterns and experiences that feel longstanding or difficult to shift.

People often seek therapy with me when they feel overwhelmed or burnt out, caught in repeating patterns, anxious or self-critical, or uncertain about their direction. I also work with people navigating workplace stress, leadership pressures, or questions of identity, belonging and exclusion.

My approach is relational and reflective. Together, we pay attention not only to current challenges but to the emotional patterns and underlying assumptions that may be shaping your experience. Therapy offers a space to think more clearly and develop greater self-understanding.

I am registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a Practitioner Psychologist and practise in accordance with the BACP Ethical Framework. My work is supported by regular supervision and ongoing professional development to ensure safe, ethical and reflective practice.

Alongside therapy, I offer developmental coaching for professionals and leaders. Coaching provides a structured, reflective space to explore authority, decision-making and impact. Coaching can support clearer thinking, steadier leadership and decisions that feel aligned with your values.

This meeting is an opportunity for us to explore what has brought you to therapy or coaching and what you hope for from the work. I will ask about your current difficulties, relevant personal history, and any previous experiences of therapy. There is no formal written assessment to complete beforehand, but I may invite you to reflect on key questions in advance if helpful.

The first session is also a space for you to decide whether you feel comfortable working with me. The quality of the therapeutic relationship is central, so it’s important that you feel able to speak openly.

If we decide to continue, we will agree on frequency, focus and practical arrangements. If I believe another type of support may be more suitable, I will discuss this with you and, where possible, suggest alternatives.