About Luschka van Onselen
My name is Luschka van Onselen. I’m of English and Dutch descent, South African by birth, and have lived in the UK for the past 23 years. I’m currently based on the Isle of Wight, where I’ve been working as an Outdoor Therapeutic Practitioner for over five years, supporting many of the Island’s schools and young people.
I am a qualified Integrative Therapist, which means I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches, tailoring each session to the needs of the individual rather than following a one-size-fits-all model.
Who do I work with?
While I welcome anyone who feels drawn to working with me, I often find myself working with:
- Veterans
- Men and fathers
- English-speaking individuals who are not originally from the UK
- People with a strong sense of faith, from any belief system
I also support many clients who have experienced:
- Sexual abuse
- Domestic abuse
- Rape
- Anxiety
- PTSD and complex PTSD (CPTSD)
My work is deeply embodied and often includes optional practices between sessions—such as breathwork, affirmations, journaling, or nature-based exercises. These are not “homework” but gentle invitations to deepen the work if it feels right for you.
Why “!Nara”?
The name !Nara comes from a Khoisan word used by Namibian tribes to describe a desert plant—similar to a melon—whose dried seeds have long been used in traditional healing.
I chose this name for several reasons:
- I spent much of my childhood in Namibia and feel a strong connection to its people, culture, and landscape.
- While my practice is integrative, I lean heavily on Attachment Theory. I believe many of our present-day challenges can be traced back to our early relational experiences—our “Origin Stories.” Interestingly, some scientists suggest the Garden of Eden may have originated in the region that includes Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe—making it a powerful metaphor for returning to our roots.
- Khoisan healers observed that parts of the !Nara plant helped soothe and rebalance the nervous system—something that resonates deeply with my therapeutic approach.
- My journey as a therapist began in wilderness therapy. I continue to weave nature connection, foraging and outdoor practices into my work—so naming my practice after a desert plant felt both meaningful and fitting.