Malahayati (Mala) Holland

Malahayati (Mala) Holland offers play and creative arts therapy that is designed for adults as well as children. When talking alone does not capture a person’s experience, she uses creative methods to help clients process and express feelings in different ways.

She works with adults who have experienced complex interpersonal trauma, using play-based approaches to address social, emotional, and cognitive areas that can be affected by chronic trauma exposure. Part of her practice includes work with a non-profit organisation that provides mental health care support after disclosure of sexual abuse.

Mala has supported people with a range of concerns, including family and attachment difficulties, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, bipolar disorder, self-esteem challenges, and grief. She sees symptoms as one aspect of a person’s situation and takes into account other important factors such as physical health, safety, living arrangements, social support, financial circumstances, spirituality, and overall wellbeing when planning care.

Her clinical interest centres on trauma and attachment. She notes that many struggles which present in adulthood often have roots in early attachment experiences, and these patterns can influence behaviour, decision-making, and relationships.

Mala prioritises a collaborative working relationship, inviting clients to help shape their treatment so it fits their needs. She aims to be non-judgemental, reflective, and honest - a practitioner who provides safety to enable clients to explore difficult material and make the changes they want.

Sessions with Mala are conducted in a way that respects client safety and confidentiality. She draws on play, creativity and storytelling to help people gain clarity, work through uncomfortable or challenging material, and build plans for moving forward independently. Mala has 4 years of experience and is based in the United Kingdom.