General Referral

Our general referral lines are currently closed while we focus on supporting the women already waiting for counselling. We understand this may be disappointing and truly appreciate your patience and understanding.

However, referrals remain open for our Group Therapy, Psychoeducation Workshops, and Irish Women’s Service.

Who Can Access Our Services

We welcome women who:

Are over 18

Receive benefits-level income (with some exceptions, see ACCEPT Criteria below)

Are not currently attending another counselling, psychotherapy service or being seen at an outpatient such as a psychiatrist.
Are based in North London Boroughs; Islington, Barnet, Camden, Hackney, Haringey & Enfield (inc. Edmonton & Southgate).

We prioritise inclusion and diversity and welcome women who:

Have experienced domestic or sexual abuse, childhood sexual abuse, or harmful practices such as honour violence

Are from minoritised communities and have faced racism, discrimination, or social exclusion

Are from refugee backgrounds and have experienced trafficking or other human rights abuses

Are from migrant backgrounds and may not have English as their first language

Identify as LGBTQ+

When a Referral Might Not Be Suitable

Sometimes we may need to postpone or decline a referral, such as if a woman:

Has a current substance use issue, severe eating disorder or severe mental health diagnosis (If you have a mental health diagnosis such as EUPD, schizophrenia, PTSD, from a consultant or psychiatrist – please include this on the referral form).

Is seeking counselling for a court case or is court-mandated for therapy

Is currently living with a perpetrator of domestic or sexual abuse

Is attending therapy to obtain letters for things like PIP applications or other state benefits. Therapists cannot provide support letters except for confirming a client was in therapy and the related dates of the therapy

Has not fully completed the referral form. Please try to complete every section, as this information helps us understand your needs, ensure your safety, and match you with the right counsellor.

What to Expect

An assessment does not guarantee counselling, but we will work with you to find the best support, either at the Maya Centre or another service.

To help us offer support as smoothly as possible, please take a little time to consider your referral carefully before sending it. Our waiting times can vary, but we aim to see clients within 3–4 months, and no longer than 6 months at the moment. Providing the correct contact details and attending your assessment appointment helps us keep waiting times shorter for everyone. If we’re unable to reach you, or if appointments are missed or cancelled, this can delay your support and others’ too.

If you have mobility or accessibility needs, please let us know in your referral so we can plan accordingly.

ACCEPT Criteria

Depending on funding and waiting times, we also offer a 10 session counselling programme for women registered with an Islington GP who:

Are survivors of childhood sexual abuse or domestic violence

Are refugees or asylum-seekers

Are coping with bereavement