Health professionals for Αυτισμό in Athens

Kalaitzi Myrto is a Psychologist who maintains a private practice in Nea Filothei. She graduated with honors from the Department of Psychology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, as well as from the Department of Philosophy, Education, and Psychology with a specialization in Psychology at the same university. Subsequently, she pursued postgraduate studies in "Applied Clinical Psychology" at UCLAN University in England and underwent psychodynamic training in the diagnosis and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults at DIKEPSY. She has worked as a Psychologist at KEDASY, in primary schools of the Chalandri municipality, and in a special secondary education school. Additionally, she has been employed at the Psychosocial Unit of the Samos Reception and Identification Center (KYT) of the National Public Health Organization (EODY) and at a center for therapy of children and adolescents. She possesses extensive experience with all age groups (children, adolescents, adults) and vulnerable populations. Finally, she has participated in numerous educational and scientific seminars, conferences, and workshops.

The Kentro Meletis Kai Eidikon Therapeion Eksypni Anaptyksi consists of a specialized team of professionals providing psychological support for parents and children, as well as services in speech therapy, occupational therapy, and special education. Eksypni Anaptyksi has over 15 years of experience in the field of private education and therapy. The team's passion for children is the foundation and driving force that motivates them to continue delivering their services to the fullest extent of their capabilities. They remain constantly vigilant, updating their teaching methods and the implementation of the center’s therapeutic programs by following the most modern and validated standards.

Ο Τσιώλης Νικόλαος είναι Ψυχολόγος και διατηρεί ιδιωτικό γραφείο στο Σύνταγμα. Είναι απόφοιτος του Τμήματος Ψυχολογίας του Παντείου Πανεπιστημίου Κοινωνικών και Πολιτικών Επιστημών. Η επιστημονική και ψυχοθεραπευτική του διαδρομή είναι σταθερά προσανατολισμένη στην υποστήριξη ευάλωτων πληθυσμών, στη βαθιά προσπάθεια κατανόησης και ερμηνείας της ανθρώπινης συμπεριφοράς και στη διαρκή εμβάθυνση των ψυχοδυναμικών διεργασιών που διαμορφώνουν τον ψυχισμό του ανθρώπου.

Από το 2023 φοιτά στο τετραετές πρόγραμμα εκπαίδευσης στη Συστημική Ψυχοθεραπεία στο Εργαστήριο Διερεύνησης Ανθρώπινων Σχέσεων (Ε.Ε.). Η συστημική προσέγγιση, με την εστίασή της στις σχέσεις, τις παθογένειες και τα δυναμικά κάθε συστήματος, εμπλουτίζει καθοριστικά τη ψυχοθεραπευτική του ματιά και ενισχύει την κατανόηση του ατόμου ως φορέα νοήματος και εμπλοκής μέσα σε ευρύτερα κοινωνικά και οικογενειακά πλαίσια. Η συστημική ψυχοθεραπευτική προσέγγιση και η ειδίκευσή του σε αυτήν συμβάλλει σε μια ολιστική ψυχοθεραπευτική παρέμβαση με επίκεντρο το άτομο και τις σημαντικές για εκείνο διαπροσωπικές του σχέσεις.

Παράλληλα, παρακολουθεί σε τακτική βάση επιμορφωτικά σεμινάρια με επίκεντρο την ψυχαναλυτική ψυχοθεραπεία, τα οποία λειτουργούν για εκείνον ως χώρος στοχασμού και εμβάθυνσης στις ασυνείδητες πτυχές της ψυχικής λειτουργίας. Η ψυχαναλυτική σκέψη παραμένει για τον ίδιο θεμέλιο στη ψυχοθεραπευτική προσέγγιση, προσφέροντας γλώσσα και εργαλείο για την κατανόηση της ενδοψυχικής ζωής, της επανάληψης, της επιθυμίας και του τραύματος.

Η συνθετική οπτική που προσφέρεται από τη διαρκής του επιμόρφωση στα δυο αυτά ψυχοθεραπευτικά μοντέλα αποτελεί αρωγό για την βέλτιστη παροχή υπηρεσιών με επιστημονική κατάρτιση και ανθρωποκεντρικό προσανατολισμό.

Στο πλαίσιο της ακαδημαϊκής του δραστηριότητας, συντονίζει για δύο διαδοχικά εξάμηνα στο Πάντειο Πανεπιστήμιο Κοινωνικών και Πολιτικών Επιστημών την εφαρμογή του Προγράμματος Ομαδικής Συμβουλευτικής, με τίτλο «Ποια είναι η δική σου υπερδύναμη;», με τη συμμετοχή προπτυχιακών φοιτητών. Το έργο αυτό εστιάζει στη μελέτη των δυνατών στοιχείων του χαρακτήρα του κάθε ατόμου το πως αυτά επηρεάζουν την αυτοεικόνα και την καριέρα του και πως γνωρίζοντας τα μπορεί να τα εφαρμόσει σε ένα ομαδικό πλαίσιο, με τη χρήση βιωματικών ασκήσεων.

Το 2020, πραγματοποίησε την πρακτική του άσκηση στον Συμβουλευτικό Σταθμό του Δήμου Πετρούπολης, όπου είχε την ευκαιρία να ασκηθεί στην ψυχολογική αξιολόγηση, στη λήψη ιστορικού και στη συμβουλευτική στήριξη πολιτών που απευθύνονταν στη δομή. Υπό τη συνεχή εποπτεία διεπιστημονικής ομάδας, συμμετείχε ενεργά στη διαμόρφωση θεραπευτικών πλάνων, αναπτύσσοντας δεξιότητες σύνδεσης, κατανόησης και ανάλυσης σύνθετων κλινικών δεδομένων.

Το 2021, προσέφερε εθελοντικά τις υπηρεσίες μου στον ΟΚΑΝΑ (Οργανισμός Κατά των Ναρκωτικών) και ειδικότερα στο Κέντρο Εποπτευόμενης Χρήσης «ΣΤΕΚΙ 46», στο πλαίσιο παρεμβάσεων μείωσης της βλάβης. Συμμετείχε σε ατομικές συνεδρίες με ενεργούς χρήστες, σε παρεμβάσεις συναισθηματικής αποφόρτισης και σε δράσεις «street work». Το έργο αυτό τον έφερε σε επαφή με την πραγματικότητα του κοινωνικού αποκλεισμού και της εξάρτησης, ενισχύοντας την κατανόησή του για την ψυχική δυσφορία σε περιβάλλοντα αυξημένου κινδύνου.

Από τον Ιανουάριο του 2024 έως σήμερα, εργάζεται ως Ψυχολόγος στο «Χατζηπατέρειο» Κέντρο Αποκατάστασης και Στήριξης Παιδιού (Ίδρυμα Κοινωνικής Εργασίας). Εδώ, έχει την ευθύνη για τη διεξαγωγή ατομικών και ομαδικών συνεδριών ψυχολογικής υποστήριξης σε παιδιά και τις οικογένειές τους, τη συμμετοχή σε διεπιστημονικές ομάδες αξιολόγησης, καθώς και σε εποπτικές ομάδες προσωπικού με την συνεργασία παιδοψυχιάτρου. Έχει αναλάβει τη θέση του Υπευθύνου Παιδικής Προστασίας, καθώς και τον συντονισμό του προγράμματος εθελοντισμού και πρακτικής άσκησης του Κέντρου. Επιπλέον, διενεργεί ψυχολογικές αξιολογήσεις παιδιών με τη χρήση του ψυχομετρικού εργαλείου WISC-V, συμβάλλοντας στην ολιστική κατανόηση των αναγκών και δυνατοτήτων τους.

Elisavet Diakatou BSc, MSc is a Psychologist - Psychotherapist with a private practice in Ilisia, Athens. She holds a degree in Psychology from the Department of Social Sciences at the University of Greenwich, UK, and a master's degree in Developmental Psychology from Lancaster University, UK. The therapeutic approach adopted by the specialist is Systemic Psychotherapy, with particular expertise in individual psychotherapy, family therapy, group therapy, empowerment of LGBTQI+ individuals, parent and child counseling, and child and adolescent mental health. Finally, Ms. Diakatou is a member of the Hellenic Society of Systemic Family, Individual, and Group Therapy (ELESYTH).

Dr. Angelos Panagiotopoulos is a Clinical Psychologist - Psychotherapist, a graduate of the University of Geneva, PhD and researcher at the Department of Psychology of the University of Athens, supervisor of theses at the Society for Cognitive Behavioral Studies and a certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist.

He studied Psychology at the University of Plymouth, England, where he received a commendation for academic excellence. He specialized in Clinical Psychology at the University of Geneva, Switzerland as a University Scholar, doing his clinical training at the Psychiatric Department of the University Hospital of Geneva. Upon his return to Greece, he served for one year at the General Staff of the Army as a psychologist at the Soldiers' Support Line.

He followed a 4-year specialization in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy at the Society for Cognitive Behavioral Studies and worked as a psychotherapist for children, adolescents and adults at the Institute for Behavioral Research and Treatment and the Center for Child Neurodevelopmental Education. Along with his clinical training, he completed his PhD thesis at the Department of Psychology, University of Athens as a fellow of the Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation.

He is currently a thesis supervisor at the Society for Cognitive Behavioral Studies, works as a researcher at the Department of Psychology of the University of Athens in a funded research project and maintains his private office in the area of Ampelokipoi-Platia Mavilis.

Dr. Thelouras Nikolaos is a Child Psychologist who maintains a private practice in Ano Ilioupoli, where he provides mental health services with professionalism and consistency. He graduated from Cardiff Metropolitan University in the United Kingdom with a primary degree in Psychology. His academic career continued at the postgraduate level at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, in the Medical Department, where he completed his studies in Forensic Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine with distinction. He is a member of the teaching staff of the Psychology Department at IST College, which collaborates with Swansea University, actively contributing to the development of new skills and knowledge. His clinical training is enriched by specialized postgraduate education in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy through the International Psychotherapy Center "ALYPIA," recognized by the British organization ACCPH (Accredited Psychotherapists – Level 7). Furthermore, he has received certified training in the use of the psychometric tool MMPI-2 through ISON Psychometrica. In clinical practice, Dr. Thelouras has extensive experience working with both adults and children and adolescents. He addresses a variety of psychopathological difficulties, with a primary focus on anxiety and depression, while concurrently working in private facilities with children and adolescents presenting developmental disorders, ADHD, and other behavioral difficulties. His scientific training, professional experience, and continuous education make him a comprehensive professional in the field of mental health.

Sgouromalli Dimitra graduated from the Psychology Department of the University of Crete in 2018. Subsequently, she completed her postgraduate studies in the program "Counseling Psychology & Counseling in Special Education, Training & Health" at the University of Thessaly. She is currently training as a Systemic Psychotherapist at the "Logou Psychis" Training Institute. Simultaneously, she has been working as a Psychologist and Psychotherapist in private and public institutions for the past 5 years, providing Counseling & Psychotherapy services to children, adolescents, adults, and parents. These activities facilitate a deeper understanding of issues such as self-awareness and self-acceptance, relationships and parenting, crisis management, and the handling of dysphoric symptoms.

Papadopoulou Marilena - Speech Lab is a Speech Therapist and operates the private Speech Therapy and Special Treatments Center, "Speech Lab," located in Pangrati and Vyronas. Papadopoulou Marilena holds a degree in Speech Therapy from Queen Margaret University, Scotland, and is the holder of the “Advanced Professional Certificate in Diagnosis and Intervention of Specific Learning Difficulties” from the Scottish Qualifications Authority. Additionally, she has received further training in Alternative Communication Systems (PECS, TEACCH). She is an external collaborator of the nursery-kindergarten “Iliokhamogelo” and a former scientific associate at special therapy centers and day centers. Finally, she regularly attends numerous seminars in the field of speech therapy as part of her ongoing professional development.

The Center for Special Therapies Development of Speech and Work is located in Kaisariani, with the Special Educator Kentro Eidikon Therapeion Anaptyksi Logou Kai Ergou as its scientific director. The Center for Special Therapies is staffed by highly qualified therapists with many years of experience, covering a wide range for a more effective approach and treatment of each patient. Specifically, there is a Speech Therapist, Psychologist, Special Educator, and Occupational Therapist providing individualized therapeutic programs tailored to the needs of each person, respecting their personality and unique characteristics. Some of the services offered at the Center for Special Therapies Development of Speech and Work include the treatment of articulation and phonological disorders, the management of learning difficulties, autism, ADHD, as well as psychological support and counseling for children and adolescents.

Argyropoulou Xristina is a psychotherapist trained at the 'Laboratory for the Investigation of Human Relations.' She holds two postgraduate degrees: a Master of Science in Psychology and a Master of Education in Autism, specializing in the psychoeducation of children and adolescents with autism. She has worked in specialized therapy centers. In recent years, she has maintained her own practice, focusing on adult psychotherapy as well as parent counseling.

The Kentro Psyxopaidagogikis Ypostiriksis Psyxagogein is a modern, fully equipped, and specially designed center to meet the needs of children, adolescents, and adults. The Director of the Center is Kentro Psyxopaidagogikis Ypostiriksis Psyxagogein, Psychologist - Child Psychologist - Special Systemic Therapist for Couples and Families. She holds a degree in Psychology from the Faculty of Philosophy of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. The Center's goal is to provide specialized support to children and their families by offering comprehensive services in the field of diagnosis, assessment, therapy, and rehabilitation of developmental and learning difficulties in children and adolescents. Finally, it covers a wide range of therapeutic programs for adults.

Metta Kalliopi, MSc, is a Psychotherapist offering online sessions in both Greek and English, based between Athens and Amsterdam. She holds two Master’s degrees — in Clinical Psychology (Leiden University, the Netherlands) and Neuroscience (Carleton University, Canada). Kalliopi works exclusively online, providing psychotherapeutic support to adults in Greece and abroad. She works with individuals experiencing anxiety disorders, panic attacks, work-related stress, depression, ADHD, emotional regulation difficulties, interpersonal issues, psychosomatic symptoms, self-esteem challenges, addictions, as well as existential concerns related to meaning and identity. In her therapeutic practice, she integrates techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Psychodynamic Therapy, aiming to help clients understand and change limiting patterns of thought and behavior. She supports individuals in managing anxiety, improving relationships, and enhancing self-esteem. Kalliopi also places particular emphasis on empowering and supporting members of the LGBTQIA+ community, approaching every individual with acceptance, respect, and authenticity. She has completed over 300 hours of personal psychotherapy, deepening her understanding of the therapeutic process and human experience.

Matthaiou Dimitrios is a Psychologist and Child Psychologist trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) at the Psychotherapy and Counseling Center and maintains a private practice in the Gyzi area of Attica.

Elena Georgakopoulou is a Counseling Psychologist - Psychotherapist for children, adolescents, and adults. She holds a professional license to practice in England (HCPC Register PYL 15025) since 2006, and a professional license in Greece since 2008. She is also a regular member of the Hellenic Psychological Society and has worked as a Psychologist in the National Health Service of the United Kingdom (NHS), providing therapy to adults and children with severe clinical symptomatology. She has worked with adults and children and utilizes an eclectic and integrative model combining Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), systemic, and person-centered approaches. Her work often involves collaboration with parents, as well as coordination with other agencies such as educational settings, while in Greece she works remotely. She is interested in and can assist in areas such as autism and autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, anxiety and depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), low self-esteem and self-confidence, loss of meaning and direction in life, relational and attachment difficulties, and parental counseling. Sessions are also provided in English.

Zaxaropoulou Niki - Maria MD, MSc is a Psychiatrist with a private practice in Pangrati. She has served as a Collaborator with the Organization Against Narcotics (OKANA) and the Mental Health Agency AmKE Anodos. She graduated from the Medical School of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and specialized in psychiatry at the Hellenic Center for Mental Hygiene and Research and the Aeginiteio University Hospital. Additionally, she completed postgraduate studies (MSc) at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens focusing on the Promotion of Mental Health and Prevention of Psychiatric Disorders. Dr. Zaxaropoulou is a scientific associate of the 1st University Psychiatric Clinic at Aeginiteio Hospital. She has expertise in liaison psychiatry, women's mental health issues, menopause, emotional aspects of infertility, miscarriage, abortion, support during fertility treatments, pregnancy, breastfeeding, maternal grief – postpartum blues, postpartum depression, parental support, pervasive developmental disorders, psychotherapeutic counseling, as well as pharmacological support for individuals with autism and Asperger syndrome.

The Center for Special Therapies “Words and Deeds” is a facility created with love, awareness, and care for children. The primary goal of the team is to meet the therapeutic needs of each child and to guide parents in order to strengthen and highlight their child’s skills. The center provides specialized evaluation, diagnosis, and therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults presenting developmental disorders, speech and language difficulties, learning disabilities, behavioral problems, as well as psychological support and parental counseling. The founder and Scientific Director of the Center is Darla Eleni, a graduate of the Speech Therapy Department of the School of Health Professions at the Technological Educational Institute of Epirus, a member of the Association of Speech-Language Pathologists of Greece, and holds a professional practice license. She has been providing speech therapy services for the past 14 years to children and adults with communication, speech, and language disorders. Her work includes the evaluation and therapeutic intervention in children with conditions such as delayed speech and language development, articulation disorders, phonological disorders, autism spectrum disorders, stuttering, and hearing impairment. She has attended numerous seminars related to Speech Therapy and Special Education issues and continues to pursue scientific training at both theoretical and practical levels. Notably, she has been certified in widely recognized therapeutic methods such as TEACCH, Makaton, among others. She has also completed a nine-month training seminar on “AUTISM” at the University of Patras.