Health professionals for Addictions in Athens

Maria Vlachaki, MSc, is a Psychologist, Cyberpsychologist, and Psychotherapist, currently operating a private practice in Alimos, Athens.She holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) and a Master's degree in Cyberpsychology from the same institution.She has specialized in Systemic and Family Therapy through studies at the Laboratory for the Investigation of Human Relations (Charis Katakis, 2022–2023) and the University Mental Health Research Institute (UMHRI). She is also attending the annual program “Therapeutic Approaches to Addictions” at the 18 ANO Addiction Rehabilitation Center.Her professional experience includes providing individual psychotherapy sessions since September 2023, as well as collaborations with the Psychiatric Clinic of Attikon University General Hospital (volunteer work), the Evaluation Committee for the Ministry of Health’s “Personal Assistant for People with Disabilities” program (June–July 2023), and the “ARGO” Association for Children with Special Needs. Since 2024, she has been working with the Municipal Health Clinics of Nea Smyrni and the P. Sakellaropoulos Association for Social Psychiatry.She is trained in the administration of psychometric tools such as the MMPI-1, Raven's Progressive Matrices, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), MoCA, and the Geriatric Depression Scale.Maria actively participates in numerous scientific conferences, symposia, and workshops related to psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, mental health, and technology. Notably, she has attended the Psychotherapy Conferences of the Hellenic Psychiatric Association, the Panhellenic Conference on Counseling Psychology, events at Attikon Hospital, and seminars by the Hellenic Psychological Society, as well as initiatives promoting community mental health awareness.As a speaker, she presented her research titled “Netflix and binge watching: A qualitative exploration of the subjective viewing experience” at Panteion University (April 9, 2024). She has also participated in a women’s empowerment and breast cancer awareness event at the Kallithea Municipal Library (October 2024), and in a public seminar on cyberbullying organized by the Municipality of Rentis/Moschato (November 2024).

Sideri Xristina is a Psychologist with a psychoanalytic orientation based on Lacanian theory.

She is a graduate of the Department of Psychology of the Faculty of Philosophy at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and of the Postgraduate Program “Psychotherapy: Theoretical Frameworks, Clinical Applications, and Comparative Approaches” (MSc in Psychotherapy) at the Medical School of the same University. She has received additional training in Clinical Psychopathology, completing the one-year seminar “Panagiotis Oulis” organized by EPIPSY, the First University Psychiatric Clinic of Aeginiteio Hospital, and the company “Promotion of Knowledge in Mental Disorders.” Since 2020, she has been attending the educational program of the Athens Academy of Clinical Studies of the Freud Field Institute and actively participates in working groups, seminars, and conferences of the Hellenic Society of the New Lacanian School of Psychoanalysis. Concurrently, she is a member of the “Addiction and Alcoholism” network of the Freud Field. She completed her practical training and subsequently worked voluntarily in the field of addictions. From 2020 to 2025, she was employed as therapeutic staff at the Center for the Treatment of Dependent Individuals. She is a collaborator of the Galinos Institute of Mental Health and Personal Development.

In her independent clinical practice, she aims to prioritize the uniqueness of each individual and accompany them in the search for their distinctive way to cope with their subjective difficulties.

Pavlos Karathanos is a licensed Psychologist (License No. 281828/5193) who offers online therapy sessions based in Athens, Greece. He completed his undergraduate studies in Psychology at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and pursued further training in Theoretical Approaches at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, specializing in Music Therapy (therapy through the arts).

In 2011, he provided his services as a Psychologist at the Psychological Support and Telecounseling Helpline of KETHEA, and later worked at the American School of The Hague in the Netherlands, offering one-to-one coaching

He has specialized in issues related to anxiety disorders, emotional regulation difficulties, panic attacks, psychosomatic symptoms, performance anxiety, school-related stress (including university entrance exam anxiety), tics, and the empowerment of LGBTQI+ individuals.

He is in ongoing personal therapy and clinical supervision.

Mitsa Maria MSc is a Psychologist - Systemic Psychotherapist and maintains a private practice in Ampelokipoi. She graduated from the Department of Psychology at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and holds a postgraduate degree in "Health Promotion and Education" from the Medical School and the Department of Psychology of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. She trained in Systemic Psychotherapy and Counseling and has completed the clinical training program at the 1st Psychiatric Clinic of the Papageorgiou General Hospital of Thessaloniki. In recent years, she has worked in non-governmental organizations, providing psychological and psychosocial support to vulnerable populations as a psychologist, through individual and group sessions, and as a coordinator of a hosting structure for unaccompanied minors. Furthermore, she has worked as a psychologist in the design and implementation of national and European programs for the prevention and promotion of psychosocial health for children, parents, educators, and professionals. As part of her ongoing training and improvement of therapeutic practice, she attends educational seminars, receives systematic supervision, and follows a personal course of individual psychotherapy.

En Dynamei – The organization embracing every aspect of mental health. En Dynamei – Promotion of Mental Health and Education was established to provide comprehensive care for individuals, with a central focus on psychotherapy and counseling. Its interdisciplinary team – psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, and sociologist supports each person with consistency and care, covering the full spectrum of needs, from individual and group psychotherapy, individual, couple and family counseling, to social support and psychiatric monitoring. Depending on each person's request, the appropriate and specially trained professional from our team will take responsibility to provide targeted, scientifically valid, and meaningful support. The team stands alongside children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in need of psychotherapy, counseling, or support during periods of intense stress, depression, psychosomatic issues, or more complex difficulties. Their goal is to offer not only treatment but also a safe and humane environment, where one can speak, be heard, and find practical solutions with the help of the appropriate specialist. At En Dynamei, you will find everything you need for your mental health – with a team that listens, understands, and supports you at every step.

Koanta Stauroula is a Mental Health Counselor and Psychotherapist with a private practice in Athens. She is a member of the Hellenic Counseling Society and specializes in Drama Therapy and art-based psychotherapeutic approaches. She studied Set and Costume Design at the Lycurgus Stavrakos School of Cinema and Television and pursued postgraduate specialization in Cinematherapy at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. She has received training in Group Analysis, Psychotherapy, and Psychodrama through HAGAP and has completed a study program at the Hellenic Training Center “Psychotherapy through Arts” with a focus on Drama Therapy. She also holds an international certificate in the field of Psychogenealogy and Intergenerational Psychodrama. She works with a psychodynamic – analytical (Jungian) approach, offering individual sessions, therapeutic groups, and alternative forms of expression and processing through painting, music, cinema, storytelling, and other artistic media. She specializes in supporting individuals facing grief, anxiety, psychological trauma, identity crises, or changes in everyday roles, while also accompanying those seeking deeper self-awareness and personal development.

Zouka Olga is a Psychologist - Systemic Psychotherapist, licensed to practice, and maintains a private practice in Athens. She graduated from the Department of Psychology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) and has received postgraduate training in Systemic Psychotherapy (Systemic – Family Therapy and Couple Therapy) at the Society of Systemic Therapy and Intervention for Individuals, Families, and Broader Systems (ESYTHEPAS). She has attended training seminars on administering Projective Tests (RORSCHACH, T.A.T., C.A.T., Children's Drawing Test) at DI.K.E.PS.Y., as well as seminars related to addictions at ITACA – Greek Section and the Training Center of the 18 Ano Addiction Treatment Unit. Additionally, she completed practical training in the Family Department of the Therapeutic Center for Dependent Individuals (KETHEA) "Diavasi" and at the Psychiatric Clinic of the 251 General Air Force Hospital. She has worked as a psychologist in K.D.A.P. MEA (Municipality of Acharnes "AROGI"), in prisons (Detoxification Center for Drug-Addicted Prisoners Eleonas Thebes (KATKETH)), in a shelter for unaccompanied minor refugees (AMKE SUNYPARXIS Ecumenical Refugee Program), and provided psychosocial support to the Municipality of Haidari through an ESPA program. Currently, she provides counseling to unemployed individuals through an ESPA program. In her private practice, she focuses on creating a supportive and collaborative therapeutic relationship, tailoring her approach to the uniqueness and specific needs of each client, aiming at the effective management of any issues they face. She conducts in-person and online sessions with adults, adolescents (15 years and older), families, couples, as well as counseling sessions for couples and parents.

Kakarougka Sofia is a Psychologist and maintains a private practice in Metaxourgeio. She holds a degree in Psychology from the University of East London - Metropolitan College and subsequently completed her postgraduate studies (MSc) in Clinical Cognitive Behavioral Therapy at the Scientific College of Greece (SCG) - University of Strasbourg. She has also worked as a Psychologist at the Residential Care Home of the Non-Profit Urban Organization "IASIS," providing psychological support to residents through individual sessions and therapy groups. Her work also involved participating in multidisciplinary teams for the development and monitoring of individualized therapeutic programs, as well as conducting psychometric tests to assess psychological needs and track residents' progress. Additionally, as part of her ongoing education and professional development, she attends seminars and conferences in the field. Notably, she completed a multi-month program at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) titled "Social Clinical Psychology of Addictions: Assessment, Diagnosis, and Development of Therapeutic Skills," as well as the seminar "The Five Stages of Grief," organized by the Interdisciplinary Network for the Specialization of Mental Health Professionals (DEPSPY). She is currently attending the Advanced Seminar in Clinical Psychopathology "PANAGIOTIS OULIS." In her private practice, she currently conducts individual adult sessions both in person and remotely.

Angeliki Xatzimanoli, MSc is a Psychologist, certified Psychotherapist, and maintains a private practice in Ilisia. She holds a degree from the Department of Psychology at the University of Central Lancashire and graduated from the Department of Social Policy at Panteion University. Additionally, she has a master's degree in "Addiction Treatment - Addictology" from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, in collaboration with the Medical School of Athens. Currently, she is training in "Systemic Psychotherapy and Counseling" at the Center for Systemic Study and Therapy of Athens (Ke.S.Me.Th.). Throughout her career, she has volunteered with the Non-Governmental Organizations "ActionAid Hellas" and the International Cybersecurity Institute (CSI). She served as a Psychologist for the NGO "The Home Project" and collaborates as an external associate with the Center for Special Therapies "Oikogeneia." She also writes voluntarily for the website ''efiveia.gr,'' focusing on family and its connection and collaboration with the online therapy platform Terappin. She has been trained in the application of the Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy protocol (TF-CBT). She provides psychological support to children, adolescents, and adults. It is noteworthy that she participated in authoring the European program "TRACeD," within the framework of actions for the awareness and prevention of online gender-based violence. In her private practice, she undertakes the assessment, monitoring, and psychotherapeutic treatment of various psychological difficulties, such as anxiety disorders, depressive episodes, adjustment disorders, personality disorders, as well as issues related to interpersonal relationships and self-esteem.

Despoina Ntina is a Psychologist – Psychotherapist who offers online sessions for adults, children, and adolescents. She holds a degree in Psychology from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and a Master’s degree in Sport and Exercise Psychology from the University of Thessaly. Specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), she provides support for issues such as anxiety and mood disorders, panic attacks, phobias, and personality disorders. She also works with individuals on anger management, personal development, relationship difficulties, trauma recovery, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Despoina also supports individuals seeking guidance on matters related to sexuality, gender identity, and self-acceptance. Her approach is inclusive and respectful of each person's uniqueness, focusing on managing thoughts and behaviors that impact mental well-being. She offers a safe and affirming space for LGBTQ+ individuals to explore topics related to sexual orientation, gender expression and identity, and the challenges that may arise from social stigma or internal conflicts. Provides parental counseling, family support, and guidance on issues related to family dynamics and relationships. The goal is to enhance communication, manage conflicts, and support parents in their role. She offers online sessions in both Greek and English, ensuring flexibility and accessibility regardless of location. Over the past four years, she has worked with adults and children who have experienced domestic violence, as well as with minorities and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Psychiatrist - Systemic & Family Psychotherapist

He maintains a private practice in Koukaki providing psychiatric services, individual adult psychotherapy, as well as family and couple therapy with a systemic approach.

He graduated from the Medical School of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (2015). Following successful participation in the Spanish medical specialty exams (MIR), he completed his residency at the Psychiatry Clinic of the University Hospital La Paz in Madrid.

After completing his specialty, he was offered a Consultant position at the same hospital. He served as the Scientific Director of the Mental Health Center Colmenar Viejo, affiliated with Hospital Universitario La Paz, where he established and developed a family intervention program as well as therapeutic patient groups.

During his professional career in Spain, he also acquired significant clinical experience in Child Psychiatry and, following examinations, obtained recognition of the corresponding specialty title according to the Spanish healthcare system.

Concurrently, he completed a four-year training in Systemic and Family Therapy at the recognized training center Centro de Terapia Familiar Zurbano, certified by FEATF, with active participation in workshops and scientific conferences.

In the private sector, he collaborates with the Tranquilamente clinic in central Madrid as a Psychiatrist - Psychotherapist.

He has specialization and extensive experience in addiction treatment, having served as the responsible Psychiatrist at the Detoxification and Addiction Center - Centro Árbor.

He is fluent in Greek, Spanish, and English. His goal is to provide personalized, scientifically grounded, and humane care, respecting the needs of each patient.

Η Αλεξοπούλου Κωνσταντίνα-Μαρία είναι Ψυχολόγος-Ψυχοθεραπεύτρια και διατηρεί ιδιωτικό γραφείο στο κέντρο της Αθήνας, και στο Ψυχικό. Παράλληλα, εργάζεται σε Μονάδα Φροντίδας Ηλικιωμένων & Μονάδα Alzheimer, καθώς και στην μονάδα Έγκαιρης Παρέμβασης για την Ψύχωση του Ερευνητικού Πανεπιστημιακού Ινστιτούτου Ψυχικής Υγειινής. (ΕΠΙΨΥ, Χολαργού-Αθηνών. Είναι κάτοχος δυο μεταπτυχιακών, πιο συγκεκριμένα Msc Counselling Psychology/Psychotherapeutics και Msc Psychotherapy of couples and families, από το Πανεπιστήμιο του Λονδίνου. Επίσης, έχει ολοκληρώσει το εκπαιδευτικό Πρόγραμμα του Νational Center of Eating Disorders, στο Λονδίνο. Έχει εργαστεί για 5 χρόνια, στην μονάδα Διατροφικών Διαταραχών του εθνικού κέντρου Διατροφικών Διαταραχών (National Centre of Eating Disorders) στο Πρόγραμμα Ατομικής - Ομαδικής Θεραπείας - Eποπτείας Ψυχοθεραπείας Συστημικής Κατεύθυνσης και Φαρμακευτική Αντιμετώπιση των Διατροφικών Διαταραχών. Ακόμη, έχει εργαστεί ως Επιστημονικός συνεργάτης της Ύπατης Αρμοστείας ΟΗΕ σε ζητήματα εφήβων και ενηλίκων και στο Κέντρο Ελέγχου και Πρόληψης Νοσημάτων, και στον παρόντα χρόνο στο Οικοτροφείο Αλκυονίς Καπανδρίτι Αθηνών, και επιστημονική Υπεύθυνη στο κέντρο ψυχοκοινωνικής Υγείας Χαλανδρίου ''Θέτις'' Αθηνών, στο Ινστιτούτο ψυχικής υγείας παιδιών και ενηλίκων της ΕΨΥΠΕ, συνεργάτις Ειδικού Ιατρείου Ψυχικής Υγείας Γυναικών Ε.ΨΥ.Γ) στο Αιγινήτειο Νοσοκομείο, πρόγραμμα Βραχείας ψυχοθεραπείας-παρέμβασης και αντιμετώπισης των ψυχικών διαταραχών γυναικών-παιδιών-νέων ενηλίκων με διαταραχές εξάρτησης από ουσίες στον ΟΚΑΝΑ, Γραμμή ψυχοκοινωνικής υποστήριξης ΟΚΑΝΑ, 1031, για τις διαταραχές συμπεριφοράς/ διαταραχές χρήσης ουσιών/ αλκοόλ ή και αυτοκτονική συμπεριφορά/ ιδεασμό, ενηλίκων εφήβων-παιδιών με ψυχωτικές διαταραχές/ διαταραχές ύπνου/ διατροφής, διαταραχές προσωπικότητας καθώς επίσης και εργάζεται σε βάρδιες, και είναι μέλος στην 24 ωρη γραμμή ψυχολογικής υποστήριξης 10306, μόνιμης πλέον υπηρεσίας του Υπουργείου Υγείας για θύματα βίαιων συμπεριφορών/άτομα με νοητικές διαταραχές/οικογενειακά θέματα φύλου/σχέσεων/γάμου/ ανεργία/ απασχόληση ,συμβουλευτική ζεύγους παιδιών, εφήβων, ενηλίκων για απασχόληση/ συμβουλευτική σε άτομα με σεξουαλικά προβλήματα, άτομα με διάφορα ψυχικά νοσήματα/ φοβίες κατάθλιψη κρίσεις πανικού, άγχος φοβίες, και εκφοβισμό σε ΛΟΑΤΚΙ+ άτομα/ με ψυχοσωματικές παθήσεις και είναι μέλος Θεραπευτικού Προγράμματος των εξαρτήσεων, ΙSSUP, και της επιτροπής για πρόληψη και αντιμετώπιση της Βίας ανηλίκων/ ενηλίκων στην Ευρώπη, European psychosocial group against bulling and Mental Health Resiliense' και του μη κερδοσκοπικού οργανισμού Μαζί για το Παιδί καθώς επίσης συμμετέχει ως συντονίστρια στις δράσεις και ομάδες υποστήριξης της γραμμής 11525, επιπλέον διατελεί και μέλος της διεπιστημονικής ομάδας στο Αιγινήτειο Νοσοκομείο πραγματοποιεί διαδικτυακές/ οnline, και δια ζώσης συνεδρίες ψυχοθεραπείας κατόπιν τηλεφωνικού ραντεβού. Είναι μέλος του Συλλόγου Ελλήνων Ψυχολόγων και της Ελληνικής Εταιρίας Συστημικής, Γνωσιακής- Συμπεριφοριστικής- Σχεσιακής-Διαπροσωπικής και Ψυχοδυναμικής-Ψυχαναλυτικής Ψυχοθεραπείας. Τέλος, έχει συμμετάσχει σε πληθώρα επιστημονικών συνεδρίων και έχει πραγματοποιήσει επιστημονική έρευνα σε θέματα Σχιζοφρένειας /Διπολικής Διαταραχής, Ψυχαναγκαστικής Διαταραχής Διαταραχών Μνήμης -Άνοιας- Θεραπείας/ Συμβουλευτικής Φροντιστών Αμεα/ ψυχωτικών χρόνιων ασθενών. Οικογενειακής Βίας - Θεραπευτικής Παρέμβασης σε Ζευγάρια/Οικογένειες και Ψυχο-εκπαιδευτικές Ομάδες Εφήβων-Παιδιών- Ενηλίκων, Εφαρμογές Ενναλακτικών Θεραπευτικών Μεθόδων στην θεραπεία χρόνιων παθήσεων και πόνου μέσω κλινικής υπνοθεραπείας-nlp coaching program certified INLPTA-ICCP. ΕCP GHR AGCPP IRC-Eyropsy Psychosocial health in addictions and trauma applied psychotherapy with hypnosis techniques and mindfullness stress relief time line treatment. NLPTA ISSUP-AGGPTI .