Health professionals for Depression

Το Therapy Roots αποτελεί έναν χώρο ψυχικής υγείας στην περιοχή της Δάφνης, όπου κυριαρχούν η αποδοχή, η ενσυναίσθηση και η αυθεντική ανθρώπινη παρουσία. Δημιουργήθηκε από τον Γιάννη Κολέτσα και την Άννα Μεταξά και έχει στόχο την παροχή ποιοτικών υπηρεσιών ψυχοθεραπείας και συμβουλευτικής υποστήριξης.

Ο Γιάννης Κολέτσας είναι Ψυχοθεραπευτής και έχει εκπαιδευτεί στην Προσωποκεντρική Ψυχοθεραπεία στο ICPS College for Humanistic Sciences. Είναι πιστοποιημένος από την European Association of Psychotherapy (EAP). Διαθέτει επιπλέον εκπαίδευση στη Θεραπευτική Συμβουλευτική (ICPS) και κατέχει Δίπλωμα Επιπέδου 5 Pearson BTEC, ενώ έχει εξειδικευθεί στη Θεραπεία Ζεύγους και Οικογένειας (EFT). Επαγγελματικά, έχει εργαστεί και ως Σύμβουλος - Φροντιστής στην ΑΝΙΜΑ ΑΜΚΕ, ενώ έχει αναπτύξει έντονη κοινωνική δράση μέσω εθελοντικής εργασίας στις Φυλακές Κορυδαλλού και συμμετοχής σε ομάδες γονέων στο πλαίσιο προγραμμάτων του Υπουργείου Παιδείας. Είναι μέλος της Ευρωπαϊκής Εταιρείας Ψυχοθεραπείας (EAP) και της Πανελλήνιας Ένωσης Επαγγελματιών Προσωποκεντρικής και Βιωματικής Προσέγγισης.

Η Άννα Μεταξά είναι Ψυχολόγος - Ψυχοθεραπεύτρια και είναι πτυχιούχος Ψυχολογίας από το Πάντειο Πανεπιστήμιο και κατέχει Bachelor’s στο Marketing και Επικοινωνίας από το Πανεπιστήμιο Δυτικής Αττικής. Έχει εκπαιδευτεί στην Ανθρωπιστική Ψυχοθεραπεία και διαθέτει Advanced Certificate in Psychotherapy, καθώς και εκπαίδευση στο Person-Centred Experiential Counselling for Depression (UCLan, UK). Έχει επίσης εξειδικευθεί στην Τραυματοθεραπεία με τη μέθοδο EMDR, μέσω του Ινστιτούτου Τραυματοθεραπείας EMDR-Europe. Στο επαγγελματικό της έργο περιλαμβάνονται θέσεις ως ψυχολόγος στο Κέντρο Ημέρας “Στην Αυλή του Κόσμου”, στο Κέντρο Ψυχικής Υγείας Περιστερίου, καθώς και εθελοντική εργασία στο μη κερδοσκοπικό σωματείο “Φίλοι της Μέριμνας”. Είναι μέλος της World Association for Person-Centered & Experiential Psychotherapy & Counselling, καθώς και της Πανελλήνιας Ένωσης Επαγγελματιών Προσωποκεντρικής και Βιωματικής Προσέγγισης.

Marina Cresta is a Psychologist – Psychotherapist, holding a Bachelor’s in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology & Psychotherapy. She completed her clinical training at Evangelismos General Hospital of Athens, Attikon University General Hospital, and the 6th Municipal Medical Center of Athens, gaining experience in supporting individuals facing mental health challenges and chronic health conditions.

She has been trained in group therapy by the Hellenic Society for Existential Psychology and actively participates in seminars and conferences across various therapeutic approaches. Her work integrates psychodynamic thinking with an existential and person-centered stance, always tailoring the therapeutic process to each individual's unique needs.

In her sessions, she emphasizes building a relationship based on trust and authentic connection, providing a safe space where individuals feel heard, understood, and accepted.

Vagia Panagiotou is a licensed Psychologist and Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapist (CBT). She holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Lincoln University (UK) and is licensed to practice by the Health Directorate of the Prefecture of Thessaloniki.

She obtained her Master’s degree in Communication from Sheffield University (UK) and completed a four-year specialized training program in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy through the Hellenic Association for Behavioral Research (EABCT-accredited), Macedonia Branch.

Her clinical experience includes working at the Day Care Center for People with Disabilities "Kivotos," and at the Psychological Center “Stirixis,” where she provided CBT-based support to individuals facing various psychological difficulties, under supervision.

She has completed further training in Couples and Family Counseling (National and Kapodistrian University of Athens), in School Psychology (University of the Aegean), and in Special Education (University of Patras). She remains actively involved in continuing professional development and clinical supervision.

Vagia also worked for eight years at Make-A-Wish Greece, contributing significantly to psychosocial support services.

She currently runs her private practice in the heart of Thessaloniki, offering counseling and psychotherapy to adults and adolescents, both in-person and online. Her work focuses on the assessment, prevention, and treatment of a wide range of mental health conditions using evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

She was born in Athens and obtained her degree from the Department of Psychology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) (psychologist professional license, No. 1064783). She continued her education by completing a three-year training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) at the Center for Applied Psychotherapy and Counseling, followed by additional training in Systemic Psychotherapy at the Systemic Counseling and Psychotherapeutic Center. Subsequently, she earned her certification in trauma therapy – EMDR, at the Institute of Trauma Therapy. Additionally, she has attended various seminars and received training in biofeedback (a non-pharmacological therapeutic approach). She works as a Psychologist – Psychotherapist and collaborates with the Stress Management Center SMS (Stress Management Solutions). She specializes in anxiety and stress management, panic attack treatment, depression treatment, and eating disorder issues. She also specializes in the treatment of children and adolescents with anxiety-related issues, such as performance anxiety and the management of various other distressing emotions, as well as in parental counseling. The intervention is personalized and collaborative with the individual, considering various factors that become clear through individual interviews and questionnaires, aiming at the overall enhancement of the individual's quality of life across all domains.

Kontrafouri Elisavet-Aleksandra is a Psychologist with a private practice in Syntagma. She studied Psychology at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and completed postgraduate studies in "Global Health – Disaster Medicine" (MSc in Crisis Management) at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. Additionally, she is currently specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) at the Society of Cognitive and Behavioral Studies. She is a member of the organization “Touch of Life,” where she provides psychological support to oncology patients and their support networks. She works with a wide range of mental health issues, including individuals experiencing panic attacks, phobias, anxiety and mood disorders, stress, relationship problems, and those seeking personal development. She collaborates with the Friends Association of the Obstetrics-Gynecology Clinic of Aretaieio Hospital, offering psychological support to oncology patients. Her professional experience is strongly marked by volunteer work, including participation at the University Psychiatric Clinic of Papageorgiou Hospital and at the therapeutic center in Leros.

Pauletsi - Stefani Aleksandra is a Psychologist - Psychotherapist and operates a private practice in Neo Psychiko. She holds a degree in Psychology with a postgraduate qualification in "Mental Health Promotion and Prevention of Psychiatric Disorders" from the Medical School of the University of Athens and has been trained in Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT). She is also a member of the Hellenic Psychological Society, works as a psychologist in a kindergarten, and contributes articles on psychological topics to various websites. Additionally, her voluntary experience and participation in numerous conferences, seminars, and research projects related to various issues in the fields of Psychology and Psychiatry have provided her with extensive knowledge in her field. She offers therapy for adults, adolescents, and parent counseling. Her office provides specialized interventions for anxiety and stress, depression, grief, interpersonal relationship problems, eating issues, psychosomatic conditions, professional goal setting, and more generally for managing difficulties related to mental health and enhancing self-esteem.

Maria Prigkou is an experienced clinical psychologist with a strong academic background and diverse training in the field of mental health. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the *European University of Cyprus* and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from the *University of Indianapolis*, where she gained solid theoretical knowledge and practical expertise.

Further deepening her specialization, she completed a Master's in Counseling with a focus on addiction at *Philips University*, enhancing her skills in treating individuals struggling with dependency-related behaviors. In 2025, she began advanced training in Psychoanalytic/Psychodynamic Psychotherapy for Adults and Adolescents at the *European Institute of Counseling & Psychotherapy*.

Her professional experience includes work in municipal health services, non-profit mental health organizations, and private practice. She focuses on psychosomatic symptoms, eating disorders, and various forms of addiction. Her therapeutic style is grounded in consistency, empathy, and a commitment to continuous personal and professional development, including regular supervision with members of the Hellenic Psychoanalytic Society.

In addition to individual therapy sessions, she organizes experiential psychoeducational workshops and continually enriches her practice through ongoing training and clinical engagement.

Maria Damkalidou is a licensed psychologist - Psychotherapist, Clinical Hypnotherapist and official member of ICIP (International Council of Integrative Psychotherapists). She maintains a private practice in Ilioupoli and also offers online sessions. She holds a degree in Psychology from the University of Strasbourg. The therapeutic approaches she follows are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Clinical Hypnotherapy (CBH). She has completed specialized training in special education and training: diagnostics, therapeutic, counseling at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, holds a continuing education certificate in Mindfulness Cognitive Therapy for Autoimmune Diseases and Somatic Disorders, as well as certifications from numerous seminars. She provides psychotherapeutic support to adults with the primary goal of self-awareness and the transition from ignorance to knowledge. 

Periklis Papadopoulos is a Psychologist – CBT Psychotherapist and maintains a private practice in Chalandri, Athens.He graduated from the Department of Psychology of Panteion University and holds a professional license to practice Psychology throughout Greece (License No. 7057). In 2018, he was admitted to the Hellenic Society for Cognitive Behavioral Studies – Institute for Behavioral Research and Therapy, for a 4-year training program leading to certification as a Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapist (CBT). He graduated with a scholarship and was awarded the “Konstantinos Efthymiou” Prize for outstanding academic performance (exams).From 2018 to 2024, he served as a Clinical Psychologist and later as Head of the Psychology Department at the Institute of Mental and Sexual Health of Dr. Thanos Askitis.He specialized in the treatment of sexual dysfunctions (in men, women, and couples), marital and relationship issues, as well as sexual education for children and adolescents.In addition, he has worked extensively in individual psychotherapy with adults presenting with sexual disorders, depression, anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, phobias), obsessive-compulsive disorder, illness anxiety disorder, somatic symptom disorder, and personality disorders.He has contributed as co-author to the course “Special Topics in Andrology”, within the unit “The Role of Psychiatry in Andrology”, at the Medical School of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.He is a member of the Scientific Committee of the Hellenic Society of Sexology and Intergender Relationships. He has also participated in the Durex program “learn how to do it” on sexual education for adolescents, under the auspices of the Institute of Mental and Sexual Health of Dr. Thanos Askitis.He has been a speaker at scientific conferences and lectures on human sexuality and mental health. He has delivered talks to parents and students on “Sexual Education in Adolescence” as a Scientific Associate of the Institute of Mental and Sexual Health, and has published articles on the Institute’s website as well as in scientific journals in Greece and Cyprus.During his undergraduate studies, he completed internships at the Attica Psychiatric Hospital (PSNA) and later at the Amalthia Hostel as a trainee Psychologist. From 10/2009 to 05/2011, he undertook practical training at the Special Experimental Primary School of the University of Athens, under the supervision of Dr. Konstantinos Michailidis, focusing on psychological support and assessment of children with special needs.During his military service (01/2016–10/2016), he served as a Psychologist at the 414 Military Hospital and in military units in Sparta and Arta. He has also collaborated with Dr. K. Dimitroulis (Obstetrician – Gynecologist Surgeon) at the Biogenetic Center, offering psychological support to couples facing infertility.Since 2013, he has been practicing individual psychotherapy with adults in private practice.

Papigkioti Kleoniki MSc is a Psychologist - Psychotherapist who maintains a private practice in Thessaloniki. She graduated from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, specializing in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. From the beginning of her career, she was deeply moved by supporting individuals experiencing difficulties, which led her to work both professionally and through internships in organizations that protect children and women who have suffered abuse. She has focused on clinical training in Mental Health through her participation in postgraduate programs at Papageorgiou Hospital, as well as at Aeginiteio Hospital, while simultaneously enriching her clinical experience through her master's degree in Clinical Mental Health at the School of Medicine of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Throughout her professional career, she has worked therapeutically with children, adolescents, and adults, supporting individuals of all ages and identities in their unique challenges. What she loves most about her work is walking alongside each person on their path of self-awareness and self-management, creating a safe space for meaningful change and development.

Salem Fatma is a licensed Psychologist - Psychotherapist who conducts online sessions. She holds a degree in Psychology from a university in England and is currently a candidate for her Master's degree in Clinical Psychology at the University of Essex. She specializes in psychological assessment and intervention, while also training in Cognitive Analytic Psychotherapy (CAT). Her professional experience includes working in schools in England, where she collaborated with adolescent students to support their mental health and academic performance. Specifically, she provided individual support to students facing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, among others, as well as the related social challenges. She developed and implemented personalized support programs tailored to each student's needs and helped them manage their emotions and behaviors by offering strategies and tools for coping with anxiety, frustration, and other emotional states. Simultaneously, she maintained close collaboration with experienced psychologists and provided counseling to parents. Within her role, she participated in weekly Continuing Professional Development (CPD) seminars to enhance her skills and increase her effectiveness in her work. Additionally, she served in a role equivalent to a psychological assistant during her internship in England. She has also completed a training program at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and has attended seminars, expanding her knowledge and developing her skills in the field of psychology. She is committed to providing high-quality psychological services and supporting individuals in overcoming their difficulties and improving their mental well-being.

Kallias Xristos is a Psychologist - Psychotherapist and maintains a private practice in Agioi Theodoroi, Corinthia. He holds a degree in Psychology from the University of Derby, United Kingdom, and a degree in Social Work from the Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens, with a specialization in counseling and psychotherapy. He has been trained and worked in various and diverse settings, including social services and mental health structures, such as the Attica Psychiatric Hospital, the residential care facility of the NGO Iasis, the telephone support line "Together for the Child," while also working at the Attica Rehabilitation Center. Additionally, he teaches as a seminar instructor at the educational group "Evdokimos" and has delivered various lectures on topics related to psychology. His expertise includes grief management, individual psychotherapy, and anxiety and mood disorders.

Adamantia Gkika is a Psychologist, graduate of Panteion University of Athens, licensed to practice professionally. She completed a two-year master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy at Hellenic American University (accredited by the State of New Hampshire, USA), graduating with distinction for academic performance.

She has completed basic training in Cognitive Analytic Psychotherapy (CAT) at the Panhellenic Society of Cognitive and Analytic Therapy, a member of the International Cognitive Analytic Therapy Association (ICATA), and is concurrently continuing her three-year specialization within the same framework. Additionally, she has attended specialized professional training seminars in Special Education and School Psychology at the University of the Aegean.

Her psychotherapeutic approach is integrative, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of the individual. Her professional activity is governed by the Psychologist’s Code of Ethics and professional regulations, with emphasis on respect, confidentiality, and scientific validity.

She possesses clinical experience, having worked as a trainee Psychologist in the child psychiatry department of Tzaneio General Hospital of Piraeus. Subsequently, she voluntarily offered her services as a Clinical Psychologist in the adult unit of the Hellenic Center for Mental Health and Research in Aigaleo. She completed her internship as a Clinical Psychologist at the Roots Wellness Center.

Currently, she works as an external collaborator in a private practice in Petroupoli and provides counseling and psychotherapy services online to adolescents and adults.

Diamantopoulou Sofia is a Psychologist - Psychotherapist and maintains a private practice at the Megaron Concert Hall. She specializes in Clinical Mental Health through postgraduate studies at the Medical School of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, is a graduate of the Department of Psychology at Panteion University of Social and Political Sciences, and holds a Professional Practice License. Her psychotherapeutic specialization is in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) through the Society of Cognitive Behavioral Studies, and she works as a Psychologist - Psychotherapist in the Adult Therapy Department at the Institute for Behavioral Research and Therapy (I.E.TH.S.). Simultaneously, she has been trained in Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She has worked as a Psychologist in the Psychiatric Department of the General Hospital of Athens "G. Gennimatas," at the Psychiatric Hospital of Attica "DAFNI," and at the camp "Athitaki." She has been a regular member of the Hellenic Psychologists Association (SEPS) since 2020.

Sikali Efi is a graduate of the Department of Psychology at Panteion University. During her studies, she completed an internship at the "Kostea - Geitona" Educational Institutions, as well as at the Counseling - Therapeutic Day Center "Anodos." Upon completion of her undergraduate studies, she voluntarily offered her services to mental health organizations such as the Research University Institute of Mental Health "EPIPSY," the Department of the First Oncology Clinic at the "Metropolitan" Hospital, and the Department of Pediatric Hematology - Oncology (T.A.O) at the General Children's Hospital "Agia Sofia," where she provided psychotherapeutic, clinical, and research work. She has participated in numerous seminars, lectures, and sessions focusing on Health Psychology, Psychopharmacology, Clinical Psychopathology, Psycho-oncology, as well as Child Psychology, Learning and Developmental Disabilities, and Play Therapy. For the past 8 years, she has maintained a private practice in Glyfada, providing psychotherapy, counseling, and psychological support services to adults, adolescents, and couples. Her clinical experience includes psychotherapeutic sessions addressing mental health difficulties and behavioral issues related to depression and other mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, anger management, phobia treatment, supportive therapy for grief-related issues, dysfunctional interpersonal relationships, and improving self-esteem and self-image. Her therapeutic work is based on Schema Therapy, a cohesive treatment model that combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, Gestalt therapy, and psychoanalytic thought. It is specifically designed to help individuals change long-standing patterns of thinking and behavior, such as those observed in personality disorders.

Mata Eirini BSc is a Psychologist - Psychotherapist with a private practice in Kolonaki. She graduated from the Department of Psychology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and holds a professional license to practice. She is currently undertaking postgraduate training in Relational Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy at the Institute of Relational and Group Psychotherapy (ISOP). She has been in personal therapy since 2010 and under supervision since 2023. She is a member of the International Association for Relational Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy (IARPP) and the American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA). As part of her personal development and professional training, she participates in conferences, workshops, and educational seminars. Her aim is to enhance psychological resilience, facilitate the patient’s adaptation to new challenges and situations with flexibility and confidence, and ultimately, to promote self-awareness and personal integration.