My journey began in Ankara, Türkiye, where I grew up in culturally diverse, vibrant neighborhoods. I spent summers with my farming relatives by the beautiful Black Sea, which exposed me not only to traditional ways of life but also to a deep sense of spirituality in those rural settings. This rich background, along with my love for books, inspired me to explore human relationships and inner worlds, eventually earning a doctoral degree in psychology.

For years, I thrived in academia, working in Belgium, the Netherlands, the USA, and Turkey, researching how our relationships and cultures shape who we are. But after decades of a logic-driven life, I started to feel like something was missing and I knew I needed a change.

In 2018, I left academia and fully embraced the world of art, diving into printmaking and painting at a Belgian academy of fine arts. I’ve always loved creative activities, but it was during a ceramic training in Turkey that I truly felt the healing power of art—especially when shared with others in a supportive space. That experience inspired me to pursue a 3-year art therapy training in Belgium, which included an intensive internship period at a psychiatric hospital's alcohol addiction department. When I graduated with honor degree, everything finally fell into place.

Art therapy now allows me to combine my love for psychology, science, arts, handcrafts, psychotherapy, and culture in a way that feels whole and authentic.

As a member of a multicultural, multilingual family and someone with long international experience, I understand the importance of identity and belonging. At my ANKA art therapy practice, I offer a safe and nurturing space where you can explore these feelings through your unique visual language. Through the healing power of visual expression, we can reimagine and reshape your life path, opening up new possibilities for your future.