Health professionals for Depression

Iakovou Aleksandra is a Psychologist - Psychotherapist (MSc-CBT) who maintains a private practice in Nea Erythraia and collaborates with a psychotherapy center in downtown Athens. She studied Psychology at the University of Greenwich in England (BSc) and has been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Additionally, she completed postgraduate studies in Health Psychology at the University of Lancashire in England. She has also completed the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program. She completed her internship at "The Smile of the Child," where she provided psychological support to children up to 8 years old, as well as at "18 and Over," where she conducted sessions with individuals with eating disorders. Her focus is on the treatment of anxiety, depression, eating disorders, pain management, as well as enhancing self-confidence and changing behaviors that lead to the adoption of a balanced diet. Psychotherapy aids in self-recognition, as each person learns more about their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This is when the desired change begins.

Mitsi Eriola is a Psychologist and certified Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapist, licensed to practice in Greece and the United Kingdom. She completed her Psychology studies at Panteion University and her training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy at University College London and King’s College London. She has extensive experience in treating anxiety disorders and depression, having worked for eight years in the public mental health system in London and currently in the private sector. Her goal is to create a safe, supportive therapeutic environment where each individual can be heard, understand their difficulties, and learn to manage them better in order to achieve their goals.

Ο Οικονομίδης Απόστολος είναι Ψυχολόγος – Ψυχοθεραπευτής και διατηρεί ιδιωτικό γραφείο στο Νέο Ψυχικό. Είναι κάτοχος πτυχίου Ψυχολογίας από το Αμερικανικό Κολλέγιο Ελλάδος και το Open University της Αγγλίας και μετέπειτα έλαβε διετή ειδίκευση στη Θεραπεία Συμπεριφοράς Διαταραχών Άγχους, Ιδεοψυχαναγκαστικής και Μετατραυματικής Διαταραχής στο Ερευνητικό Πανεπιστημιακό Ινστιτούτο Ψυχικής Υγιεινής σε συνεργασία με την Α’ Ψυχιατρική Κλινική του Πανεπιστημίου Αθηνών. Επίσης, έχει παρακολουθήσει μονοετή μετεκπαιδευτικά προγράμματα στην Κλινική Ψυχοπαθολογία και τις Κλινικές Δεξιότητες από την Α΄ Ψυχιατρική Κλινική του Πανεπιστημίου Αθηνών σε συνεργασία με την Ελληνική Ψυχιατρική Εταιρεία. Στο παρελθόν συνεργάστηκε με το Ιατρείο Θεραπείας Συμπεριφοράς καθώς και με τη Μονάδα Θεραπείας Συμπεριφοράς του Ελληνικού Κέντρου Ψυχικής Υγιεινής και Ερευνών, όπου αντιμετώπισε ψυχοθεραπευτικά ως επί το πλείστον περιστατικά αγχωδών και συναφών διαταραχών (διαταραχή πανικού, αγοραφοβία, γενικευμένο άγχος, ιδεοψυχαναγκαστική διαταραχή, κ.α). Συμμετέχει σταθερά σε ομάδες εποπτείας ψυχολόγων, ενώ έχει εμπειρία στην διοργάνωση ψυχοεκπαιδευτικών ομάδων με έμφαση στις δεξιότητες διαχείρισης ψυχοπιεστικών καταστάσεων.

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.

Karagianni Marieui is a Psychologist who conducts both in-person and online sessions. She holds a professional practice license. She is a graduate of Psychology from Panteion University and holds a master's degree in "Applied Cognitive and Developmental Psychology." She has extensive experience in psychotherapy for adults, children, and adolescents, as well as in parent counseling. She has collaborated with private practices such as the initiatives Trust Your Therapist and Mind Your Emotion, as well as the Child, Adolescent, and Adult Support Center – Voutzis & Co. Additionally, she has been trained in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Adults by the Society of Cognitive Behavioral Studies. In the past, she has provided her services to organizations such as the General Hospital of Athens "Evangelismos," the Psychosocial Support Line 10306, and the Speech Processing Institute, and she has also been involved in preparing candidates for transfer exams in Psychology. She is distinguished by her scientific expertise, reliability, and respect for the needs of each patient.

Karydakis Aleksandros is a Clinical Psychologist - Gestalt Psychotherapist and maintains a private practice in Keratsini. He completed his studies in Psychology with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree from the University of East London and a Master of Science (MSc) degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Essex, specializing in clinical assessment, prevention, and treatment of mental disorders. Additionally, he has completed a four-year training in Gestalt Psychotherapy and holds certification from the Gestalt Foundation. His clinical experience includes working with adults, children, and adolescents across a broad spectrum of mental disorders. He has also worked with groups, couples, and families. In recent years, he has been working at the Mental Health Unit - Day Center "Ariadne," providing clinical assessment and psychotherapy services to individuals diagnosed with psychotic and other mental disorders. Furthermore, he is a scientific collaborator of the NGO Beyond Burnout, where he coordinates therapeutic groups. In the research field, he has studied work-related stress, the impact of family relationships on depression, and the effectiveness of group psychotherapy in psychosis. Finally, he is a regular member of the Greek Psychological Society (SEPS) and an associate member of the Hellenic Gestalt Psychotherapy Association (EEPSG). He maintains ongoing engagement with scientific conferences, seminars, and workshops and seeks continuous development through personal therapy and supervision.

Lila Karali is a Psychologist, an honor graduate of the Department of Psychology at the University of Crete (BSc), licensed to practice professionally. She has an academic background in the natural sciences (Chemistry-BSc, MSc), and a postgraduate diploma in Bioethics (MA). Her interdisciplinary education enhances her ability to bridge the biological and psychological perspectives, focusing on a comprehensive understanding of the human experience. She possesses clinical experience with the adult population and has specialized in Systemic Psychotherapy (a four-year training program), promoting the understanding of the self in relation to significant life systems (family, work, society). Additionally, she has training and experience in Compassion Focused Therapy to alleviate psychological distress related to persistent shame and self-criticism. Her therapeutic practice emphasizes the autonomy and values of each individual.

Anastopoulou Filippa is a Psychologist (MSc) offering online sessions. She holds a degree from the Department of Applied Psychology at the University of Derby and a postgraduate qualification in Clinical Psychology and Counseling. She continually enhances her knowledge through specialized seminars on mental health and psychotherapy topics, while also undergoing training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). She is a member of the Cyprus Association of Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapists (S.G.S.P.K.) and the EABCT. She possesses significant clinical experience, having worked in mental health facilities, including a Psychiatry department, providing support to individuals with various psychological difficulties. Her work focuses on the management of anxiety, somatoform and depressive disorders, grief, addictions, and other mental health issues. With scientific training and a person-centered approach, she delivers high-quality psychological support and therapy services.

Karavoulia Ioanna is a Psychologist, Systemic Psychotherapist, and Supervisor, maintaining a private practice in Marousi. She is a graduate of the Psychology Department at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and holds a professional license. She specialized in Systemic-Family Therapy at the Laboratory for the Investigation of Human Relations. Simultaneously, she completed further training in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychopathology at Aiginiteio Hospital. Additionally, she pursued specialization in Systemic-Family Therapy at the Society for Systemic Therapy and Intervention for Individuals, Families, and Larger Systems (ESYTHEPAS - KEDITHAS), of which she has been a member since 2017 and a lecturer in the four-year training program in systemic therapy. In 2021, she obtained the diploma of Supervisor in Systemic and Family Therapy from ESYTHEPAS - KEDITHAS. Since 2021, she has served as the Vice President of the Board of Directors of the same organization. In 2020, she took on the duties of General Secretary of the Hellenic Federation of Systemic Therapy and Family Therapy (ETHOS). Since 2007, she has worked in organizations under the Ministry of Health and Social Solidarity, as part of the PSYCHARCOS program, with individuals (children and adults) with various disorders, including psychosis, autism, intellectual disabilities, and their families. She has also worked at the Psychiatry Clinic of Sismanogleio General Hospital and, since 2013, at the “EPAKMOS” sheltered living facility, which belongs to ESYTHEPAS. Finally, as part of her professional development, she has attended a significant number of educational seminars and conferences related to mental health and systemic therapy.

Moraitis Mixalis BSc, PGDip, PGCert is a Psychologist - Psychotherapist and currently conducts sessions via video call. He holds a degree in Psychology from the University of East London and has received further training in the management of traumatic events and loss through a program at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. Additionally, he is being trained in Cognitive Counseling and interventions through specialized education in the Cognitive Behavioral Approach. He has participated in scientific conferences and seminars organized by institutions such as the Hellenic Psychiatric Association and the Hellenic Psychological Association, maintaining active engagement with contemporary developments in the field of mental health.

He emphasizes the creation of a safe and supportive environment where each individual can explore their thoughts and feelings without necessarily having to face something "serious." He can assist individuals experiencing anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, or those who wish to better understand themselves and their concerns. The therapeutic process he offers is collaborative and practical, aiming for understanding to translate into meaningful changes in daily life. He creates a space where the client can speak at their own pace and in their own way, while the initial session serves as a calm introduction, without pressure or obligation to continue.

Eleni Yoldasi is a Psychologist – Psychotherapist who maintains a private practice in Kifisia. With specialization in Person-Centered Psychotherapy, she offers a safe and supportive environment for personal development, self-awareness, and enhancement of mental well-being. Her goal is to help clients discover their potential, focusing on the values and needs that lead to an authentic and fulfilling life.

She completed her studies in Psychology at the **University of Essex** and is currently completing her training in **Person-Centered and Focusing-Oriented Counseling & Psychotherapy** at the **Hellenic Focusing Centre**. In parallel, she holds a diploma in **Health and Wellness Coaching** from the **International Authority for Professional Coaching & Mentoring**, while she continuously expands her knowledge with courses in philosophy, focusing on fundamental questions concerning life and human existence.

**Person-Centered Psychotherapy** is a therapeutic approach developed by **Carl Rogers** in the 20th century. Its core idea is that every individual has the potential to grow and resolve their issues when they feel accepted and understood. The therapist does not guide or judge the client but supports them with empathy and unconditional positive regard. This allows the client to explore their emotions, thoughts, and concerns in a safe space.

The therapy focuses on the person and their needs, rather than on the problem or diagnosis. The essence lies in the development of a genuine and honest relationship between therapist and client, which enables the latter to discover their own solutions and strengthen their self-esteem. Person-Centered Psychotherapy believes that we all possess the capacity for self-actualization and to live a life that truly satisfies us, as long as we have the appropriate environment of support and understanding.

Pagkoutsou Konstantina M.Sc. is a Psychologist and Specialist Cognitive Analytic Psychotherapist, licensed to practice by the Region of Central Macedonia, with postgraduate specialization in Counseling Psychology. She studied in the Department of Psychology at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and completed postgraduate studies in "Counseling Psychology and Counseling in Special Education, Education, and Health" at the University of Thessaly, while currently specializing in Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT). She has completed over 1,500 hours of practical training at the General Hospital of Thessaloniki "Hippocrates," the Psychiatric Hospital of Thessaloniki, and the Center for Addiction Prevention and Psychosocial Health Promotion "PYXIDA." Additionally, she has volunteered at numerous mental health organizations, such as The Smile of the Child, the Women’s Shelter, and the Society for the Protection of Minors in Thessaloniki. In recent years, she has worked as a counselor-psychologist at the Counseling Service of the University of Thessaly and as an auxiliary teaching and research staff member at the University of Macedonia. Moreover, she has worked in Special Therapy Centers, providing psychological support sessions to children and adolescents, as well as parent counseling sessions. She has attended numerous trainings and seminars on adult and child-adolescent mental health and currently offers online and in-person counseling and psychological support sessions.

Η Γουρζουλίδου Αγάπη, BSc, MSc, είναι Ψυχολόγος – Ψυχοθεραπεύτρια και πραγματοποιεί διαδικτυακές συνεδρίες. Είναι απόφοιτος του Τμήματος Ψυχολογίας του Πανεπιστημίου Κρήτης (BSc) και κάτοχος μεταπτυχιακού τίτλου (MSc) στην Κλινική και Κοινοτική Ψυχολογία από το University of East London σε συνεργασία με το Αριστοτέλειο Πανεπιστήμιο Θεσσαλονίκης. Επιπλέον, διαθέτει εξειδίκευση στη Γνωσιακή Συμπεριφορική Θεραπεία (CBT). Πραγματοποίησε την πρακτική της άσκηση στην Ελληνική Εταιρεία Νόσου Alzheimer και Συγγενών Διαταραχών Έχει επίσης εκπαιδευτεί στη Θετική Ψυχολογία μέσω του Open People University και στην αντιμετώπιση της κατάθλιψης μέσω του Ελληνικού Ανοικτού Πανεπιστημίου. Στην επαγγελματική της πορεία έχει εργαστεί ως ψυχολόγος και ψυχοθεραπεύτρια, πραγματοποιώντας διαδικτυακές και δια ζώσης ατομικές συνεδρίες. Έχει συνεργαστεί με κέντρα όπως το Epi Paidos Center for Special Therapies και δομές ΚΔΑΠ ΑμεΑ, καθώς και με κοινωνικούς συνεταιρισμούς, όπως η Cooperativa Margherita στην Ιταλία. Επιπλέον, έχει αναλάβει υπεύθυνα καθήκοντα σε μη κερδοσκοπικούς οργανισμούς (Μ.Κ.Ο.), όπως η ΜΕΤΑδραση, ενώ στο παρελθόν διατηρούσε και τον δικό της χώρο ψυχικής υγείας. Παράλληλα, έχει συμμετάσχει σε εθελοντικές δράσεις στο πλαίσιο ευρωπαϊκών προγραμμάτων. Διαθέτει εμπειρία στην εφαρμογή γνωσιακών και συμπεριφορικών θεραπευτικών προσεγγίσεων, στην ψυχοεκπαίδευση, στη συμβουλευτική γονέων, καθώς και στη διαχείριση συναισθηματικών και συμπεριφορικών δυσκολιών σε παιδιά, εφήβους και ενήλικες. Οι ακαδημαϊκές της εργασίες, όπως η πτυχιακή της μελέτη για τις επιδράσεις της μουσικής στο άγχος κατάστασης και η μεταπτυχιακή της έρευνα για την επίδραση του άγχους στη σεξουαλική συμπεριφορά, αναδεικνύουν την επιστημονική της προσέγγιση και την ικανότητά της να συνδυάζει την έρευνα με την πρακτική εφαρμογή. Στόχος της είναι να παρέχει ένα ασφαλές και υποστηρικτικό περιβάλλον, όπου οι άνθρωποι μπορούν να μιλήσουν ανοιχτά για τα ζητήματα που τους απασχολούν και να αναπτύξουν δεξιότητες που θα τους οδηγήσουν σε μια πιο υγιή και ισορροπημένη ζωή.