Health professionals for Obesity in the Western suburbs of Athens

Marilena Petrakou is a Dietitian-Nutritionist who maintains a private practice in Keratsini. She holds a degree from the School of Dietetics and Nutrition of the Technological Educational Institute of Crete. As part of her continuing education, she completed a Personalized Nutrition Training Seminar at the Metropolitan College of Athens, as well as Clinical Nutrition studies at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. Additionally, she worked as a Nutritionist during her internship at the General Hospital of Piraeus "Tzaneio." Notably, she is specialized in Clinical Dietetics, Nutritional Counseling, and the management of Metabolism and Obesity. Furthermore, she has attended training seminars on the nutritional management of intestinal diseases (irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease) and contributes articles as an external scientific collaborator to the leading nutrition and health portal MedNutrition, the largest nutrition and fitness website Fitness Motivation Hellas, and the site Monopoli.gr.

Vlaxou Evita is a Dietitian - Nutritionist who maintains a private practice in Peristeri. She holds a degree from the Department of Nutrition Science and Dietetics at Harokopio University and completed an internship at the General Children’s Hospital "Agia Sofia" during her studies. She has conducted awareness campaigns and delivered lectures on nutrition for the elderly at all K.E.F.I. centers in the Municipality of Peristeri, as well as on nutrition in infancy, childhood, and adolescence through various presentations and interactive talks at private and public kindergartens and schools in Western Attica. She manages daily cases involving obesity, pregnancy, lactation, pediatric and adolescent nutrition, nephropathy, gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, obesity, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular diseases. Her objective is not only weight loss but achieving a healthy weight with long-term maintenance of results alongside multiple benefits for the body, ultimately aiming for good health. With a commitment to knowledge and continuous education, she participates in pan-European and national conferences and symposiums related to her field.

Tsirkas Konstantinos is a General Practitioner - Family Doctor with a private practice in Peristeri, Attica, providing comprehensive primary healthcare services since 2023. With solid scientific training and a patient-centered approach, he offers complete medical support to patients of all ages, with particular emphasis on the management of chronic diseases such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes mellitus. Simultaneously, he undertakes the immediate treatment of everyday emergency cases, offering reliable and prompt care. Preventive medicine constitutes a significant part of his practice, focusing on preventive screenings and guiding patients toward a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. He also provides full prescription services, issuance of referrals, and monitoring of therapeutic regimens, as well as the issuance of necessary certificates for work or driving. Additionally, he has experience in preparing KEPA files, offering comprehensive support for disability assessment procedures with responsibility, accuracy, and utmost respect for the patient.

Nodaras Xristos is an Internal Medicine Specialist with private practices in Aspropyrgos and Attiki Square. He holds a Doctorate from the Medical School of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and is certified in the ILS Provider Course by the European Resuscitation Council. Additionally, he has received training in spinal implant procedures in France, specialized in Internal Medicine at the 2nd Internal Medicine Department of the General Hospital of Elefsina "Thriasio," and has attended annual advanced training seminars on Diabetes Mellitus by "Vasos Karamanos." In his private practice, he manages a wide range of internal medicine conditions, including infections, obesity, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cholesterol, and triglycerides. He also collaborates with the Ministry of Transport for the issuance and renewal of driving licenses, as well as health certificates. Furthermore, Dr. Nodaras has participated in national conferences aimed at continuous professional development and is a member of the Hellenic Diabetes Association and the Hellenic Society for the Study of Sepsis.

Psyxogyiou Tzina MSc is a Dietitian - Nutritionist and has been conducting online and in-person sessions since 2017. She graduated from the Department of Dietetics and Nutrition Science at Harokopio University and completed her Master's studies in Clinical Nutrition at the same institution. She has worked as a Dietitian - Nutritionist in prominent public institutions such as Tzaneio Hospital of Piraeus and the Metaxa Anti-Cancer Hospital. Additionally, she has been a researcher on type 2 Diabetes Mellitus at Harokopio University - Laiko Hospital. Finally, she is a member of the Panhellenic Association of Dietitians - Nutritionists.

My name is Maria Athanasopoulou and I hold a degree in Dietetics – Nutrition from the University of Crete. After many years of professional experience in the private sector, I decided to specialize by combining my knowledge of nutrition with my passion for children. I attended pediatric nutrition seminars and, seeking a more comprehensive education, I chose to pursue postgraduate studies in pediatric nutrition through the first accredited postgraduate program in Greece, offered by the University of Essex.

My philosophy as a nutritionist is to build strong and stable foundations in your relationship and your children's relationship with food. My primary goal is to provide guidance and education on new dietary habits to become a lifestyle, achieved through personalized and scientifically substantiated approaches.

Makaratzi Viky is a Dietitian-Nutritionist and operates her private practice in Korydallos. She has worked in dietetic offices as a lead Dietitian and has attended numerous postgraduate seminars and conferences. Her philosophy is summarized as follows: "Our body is our home, and only we can take care of it, providing it with energy, mood, psychology, and health. All of this is achieved through a balanced diet. The number of kilograms is not important, but the weight that makes each individual feel comfortable with themselves. I am a companion on this journey to help each of you reach the best version of yourself."

Konstantelias Athanasios is a Neurosurgeon Acupuncturist, maintains an Acupuncture practice in Athens and Peristeri. He specializes in the application of Medical Acupuncture according to therapeutic protocols, which are specific to each patient. He holds a degree in Medicine from the University of Crete and a diploma from the National & Kapodistrian University of Athens. He has been post-trained in the Department of Neurotraumatology and Spine at the SRH Zentralklinikum Suhl in Germany. He has served as a Consultant Neurosurgeon (Facharzt Neurochirurgie) at the Cereneo Clinic in Lucerne, Switzerland. He holds a Diploma in Medical Acupuncture, which he obtained after 2 years of training and examinations from the Acupuncture Training Institute of Greece. He holds a Diploma in Medical Acupuncture from the ICMART World Council of Medical Acupuncture. She has further postgraduate specialization in Yamamoto's Scalp Acupuncture at the International School of Scalp Acupuncture. Yamamoto's method is also referred to as neuroacupuncture. In this method, acute and chronic pain and neurological conditions are treated by inserting a small number of needles into specific areas of the head. The method is used for a variety of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, headaches, musculoskeletal pain and neuralgia. The practitioner carries out acupuncture treatments across the therapeutic spectrum.

Evgenia Grypari is a Psychologist with extensive experience in the field of mental health, currently collaborating with the center “Charin Noiseos” in Moschato. She graduated from the Department of Psychology of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, School of Philosophy, while simultaneously attending the Hellenic Military Academy of Corps Officers (2009–2013). She later completed her Master’s Degree in “Mental Health and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry” at the Medical School of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (2020–2022).

Since 2013, she has been serving as a psychologist in the Hellenic Navy, having worked in several mental health units such as the Psychiatric Clinic of the Naval Hospital of Athens, the Joint Center for Mental Health of the Armed Forces (414 SNEN), and the Naval Hospital of Salamina. She has also staffed the 24-hour National Helpline for Psychological Support and Crisis Intervention, and has served aboard a warship as a military psychologist, gaining valuable insight into the psychological challenges faced by personnel in operational environments. Additionally, she has held administrative and coordinating positions related to health and personnel management within the Armed Forces.

Evgenia Grypari participates annually in the selection and evaluation processes for candidates of the military academies and Armed Forces personnel. She has also completed internships at the Self-Help Promotion Program of Thessaloniki (supporting individuals in substance recovery) and at the Psychiatric Department of the “Agia Sofia” Children’s Hospital.

Her clinical experience covers a wide range of cases, including:

• Depression and anxiety disorders
• Personality disorders and psychoses
• Relationship and marital difficulties
• Parental counseling and divorce management
• Perinatal and postpartum depression
• Eating disorders
• Adolescent issues and identity development
• Sexual disorders and sexual identity concerns

She has further training and specialization in:

• Child psychology
• Relationship and divorce management
• Art Therapy (Vera Vasarhelyi method) for children and adolescents (6–18 years)
• Children’s drawing interpretation
• Music therapy
• Eating disorders
• High-functioning autism

Her therapeutic approach is person-centered and integrative, aiming to provide a safe and supportive environment that fosters self-awareness, emotional resilience, and personal growth.

Dr. Tsilividis Vasileios is a General Surgeon specializing in Oncological, Laparoscopic, and Bariatric Surgery, with extensive experience in university and private clinics in France and Greece, having performed over 3,500 surgeries.

He maintains private practices in Marousi and Peristeri.

He graduated from the French School of Athens and continued his studies at the Medical School of René Descartes University in Paris. There, he earned his Doctor of Medicine degree and subsequently obtained numerous university diplomas in France, including specializations in gastrointestinal surgery, oncological surgery, and bariatric surgery. He is also a member of the Hellenic Society of Gastrointestinal Oncology.

His professional career began at the University Hospital of Rouen, where he served as a resident, registrar, and later as a hospital physician. Since 2017, he has worked in clinics in France primarily focusing on General, Laparoscopic, Bariatric, and Oncological surgery, utilizing minimally invasive techniques. Currently, he provides his services at the Athens Medical Center in Marousi and Peristeri.

Dr. Tsilividis has participated in numerous scientific conferences and seminars, published papers in international medical journals, and undertaken educational roles at the university level.

He is fluent in French and English.

Papadopoulos Dimitrios is an Anesthesiologist - Acupuncturist and maintains a Private Pain Clinic in Acharnes. He graduated from the Medical School of Varna and specialized in Anesthesiology at the "Konstantopouleio" General Hospital (Agia Olga). He trained at the Pain & Palliative Care Clinic at the General Oncology Hospital “Agioi Anargyroi” and holds a Certificate of Attendance from Continuing Education Seminars in Algology (SEΑ). He holds an Acupuncture Diploma from the International Postgraduate Acupuncture Center AcuScience (2009 - 2011). He has served as an Anesthesiologist at the UHB Trust in the United Kingdom and as an Assistant Consultant Anesthesiologist B’ at the General Hospital of Samos. As part of his continuous professional development, he participates in numerous conferences and seminars in Regional Anaesthesia and Pain Management in Greece and abroad, as well as in Auricular Acupuncture - Auricular Neuromodulation with Prof. Bazzoni.

Ο Κλήμης Αθανάσιος είναι Διαιτολόγος – Διατροφολόγος και διατηρεί ιδιωτικό γραφείο στα Σεπόλια. Είναι απόφοιτος του τμήματος Διαιτολογίας του Queen Margaret University. Κατά τη διάρκεια της ακαδημαϊκής του πορείας εστίασε στην επιστημονική κατανόηση της διατροφής και στην πρακτική εφαρμογή της στην καθημερινή ζωή. Το 2021 ολοκλήρωσε την πρακτική του άσκηση στο Πανεπιστημιακό Γενικό Νοσοκομείο Αττικόν, όπου απέκτησε σημαντική εμπειρία στη λήψη διατροφικού ιστορικού, στις ανθρωπομετρικές μετρήσεις και στη διατροφική αξιολόγηση ασθενών. Παράλληλα, παρακολουθει συνεχώς σεμινάρια, ημερίδες και επιστημονικά συνέδρια, με στόχο τη συνεχή εξέλιξη και ενημέρωση στο αντικείμενο της διατροφής. Τα τελευταία χρόνια έχει συνεργαστεί με διαιτολογικά γραφεία, ιατρικά κέντρα, αθλητικά σωματεία και γυμναστήρια, αποκτώντας πολύπλευρη εμπειρία στη διατροφική καθοδήγηση διαφορετικών πληθυσμών. Από το 2022 έχει αναπτύξει ένα σταθερό και συνεχώς αυξανόμενο πελατολόγιο, βοηθώντας ανθρώπους να πετύχουν τους στόχους τους μέσα από εξατομικευμένα διατροφικά πλάνα. Η φιλοσοφία του βασίζεται στη δημιουργία ρεαλιστικών και εξατομικευμένων διατροφικών πλάνων, που προσαρμόζονται στις ανάγκες, την καθημερινότητα και τους στόχους του κάθε ανθρώπου. Στόχος του ειδικού δεν είναι απλώς η απώλεια βάρους, αλλά η υιοθέτηση υγιεινών συνηθειών που οδηγούν σε μακροχρόνια αποτελέσματα και καλύτερη ποιότητα ζωής. Παράλληλα, επενδύει συνεχώς στη γνώση, παρακολουθώντας σεμινάρια, ημερίδες και επιστημονικά συνέδρια, ώστε να προσφέρω πάντα σύγχρονες και επιστημονικά τεκμηριωμένες υπηρεσίες.

Mpelekos Vasilis MSc is a Dietitian - Nutritionist and operates a private practice in Korydallos. He is a graduate of the Department of Dietetics and Nutrition Science at Harokopio University and holds a master's degree in Applied Dietetics and Nutrition from the same institution. Through years of monitoring individuals requiring nutritional support, he has gained significant expertise in areas such as Clinical Nutrition, Nutritional Counseling, Sports and Exercise Nutrition, and the application of the Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) model. He contributes articles to online platforms and magazines and has served as a speaker on informative television programs focused on nutrition. He has participated in numerous conferences to continuously enhance his knowledge and stay updated in the ever-evolving field of nutrition. Finally, he is a member of the Hellenic Association of Dietitians - Nutritionists.

Kanellou Paraskeui is a Dietitian - Nutritionist and operates a private practice in Peristeri. She graduated from the Department of Dietetics - Nutrition at Harokopio University of Athens and holds a postgraduate degree from the Nursing Department, specializing in Public Health at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. Additionally, she holds a postgraduate degree in "Clinical Ergospirrometry, Exercise, and Rehabilitation" from the Medical School of the same university. She possesses extensive professional experience and has participated in numerous conferences and seminars. Finally, Ms. Kanellou is a member of the Panhellenic Association of Dietitians - Nutritionists and the Union of Dietitians - Nutritionists of Greece.

Tsoukala Xrysoula Md is an Endocrinologist - Diabetologist and maintains a private practice in Aigaleo. She is a graduate of the Medical School of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. Subsequently, she specialized in Pathology and then in Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism at the General University Hospital "Attikon" as well as at the Athens Children's General Hospital "Pan. & Agl. Kyriakou." Additionally, she has attended postgraduate courses in Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism. The physician has many years of clinical experience and is specialized in diabetes mellitus, thyroid and parathyroid glands, as well as in the management of obesity and metabolic disorders. Finally, she has participated in numerous scientific conferences both in Greece and abroad.

Mparmpari Maria, MD, MSc, PhD is an Endocrinologist - Diabetologist with extensive qualifications and long-standing clinical and academic experience due to her comprehensive training. She maintains a private practice in Aigaleo. She is a graduate of the Medical School of the University of Turin, holding a master's degree in "Research in Female Reproduction" from the Medical School of the University of Athens. She is highly specialized in the morbidity of Obesity, having earned a Doctorate with a dissertation on . She specialized in Endocrinology at the Endocrinology Department of the General Hospital of Athens "HIPPOCRATEIO" and in Diabetes at the Diabetology Department of the 2nd University Pathology Clinic of G.N.A HIPPOCRATEIO. Additionally, she was trained at the Pediatric Clinic of the General Children's Hospital of Athens "AGIA SOFIA" in the management of Pediatric Endocrinology cases and at the General Hospital of Athens "Elena Venizelou" in endocrinopathies during pregnancy, with particular emphasis on Gestational Diabetes Mellitus. She possesses extensive clinical experience in all endocrinological diseases concerning the thyroid gland, fertility in both sexes, adrenal and pituitary disorders, menstrual cycle disturbances during adolescence and adulthood including menopause, as well as metabolic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and lipid disorders. She has participated extensively in numerous Greek and international conferences, with various publications in Greek and foreign journals, and has received awards at Greek conference competitions. She is an active member of the Hellenic Endocrine Society and the European Society of Endocrinology - ECE ENDOCRINOLOGY.

Lampros Kontogiannis is a Dietitian - Nutritionist - Pediatric Nutritionist - Metabolism Specialist and operates a private dietetic office: "Scientific Metabolism Center" in Sepolia, next to the Attiki metro station. He holds a degree from the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at the Higher Technological Educational Institute of Thessaloniki. In 1997, he moved to the United Kingdom, where he attended specialized seminars at the Department of Clinical Psychology, "Eating Disorder," with a project titled “Anorexia Nervosa” at the private British College "British College." Simultaneously, he participated in a postgraduate program specializing in Counseling and Integrative Psychotherapy, MSc in "Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy" at the University of Derby. Currently, he has completed his specialization in systemic family therapy and couples therapy. He expanded his studies in childhood obesity at the Agia Sophia Children's Hospital - Panagiotis & Aglaia Kyriakou and, as a pediatric dietitian, participated in a four-year research study by the World Health Organization, under the auspices of the Ministry of Education in 2011, undertaking the study and documentation of anthropometric data of children from various primary schools in Athens to produce results related to childhood obesity in Greece. Subsequently, he completed the pediatric dietetics program and earned the title of Master Nutritionist in Pediatric Nutrition. He has been trained in quality control and taste evaluation and apprenticed under a specialized Tibetan teacher, knowledgeable in Tibetan medicine, focusing on neuropathy and chiropractic. Finally, the dietitian-nutritionist combines two disciplines, offering a holistic approach and solution by investigating psychological, physical, and spiritual factors, providing a comprehensive assessment and advice tailored to the individual needs of each patient.

Pasxalidis Theodoros is a Clinical Psychologist specializing in anxiety, panic attacks, and overthinking, as well as learning and school-related difficulties. He assists individuals experiencing continuous stress, pressure, or difficulty calming their minds to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and acquire practical tools for daily life. Additionally, he supports cases involving low self-esteem, interpersonal relationship challenges, professional stress, and school-related issues, approaching each person with respect and aiming for meaningful change. Acknowledging that one is not invincible or omnipotent and taking the step to speak with a psychologist is not a sign of weakness but an act of strength and honesty towards oneself.

Komninou Eui is a Psychologist, graduate of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, with a professional license to practice. She conducts online counseling and psychotherapy sessions with children, adolescents, and adults. She maintains a strong commitment to continuous education and professional development, having attended numerous seminars and specialized training programs. Since 2023, she has gained valuable experience by completing her internship at the Mental Health Center of the Armed Forces. She has engaged in both psychological assessment using psychometric tools and individual and group sessions with children, adolescents, adults, and families, addressing issues such as addiction management, bridging family relationships, couples therapy, parental counseling, self-image improvement, and enhancing self-awareness. Her goal is to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment where authentic connection and meaningful psychological support are cultivated with respect for the uniqueness of each individual, through an approach grounded in empathy and acceptance. She invests in creating a trusting space where the individual can freely express themselves without fear of judgment. In this context, particular emphasis is placed on psychological safety, confidentiality, and a consistent therapeutic relationship, taking into account the needs, experiences, and uniqueness of each person.

Miari Panagiota BSc, MSc is a Dietitian - Nutritionist with a private practice in Peristeri. She holds a degree from the School of Nutrition and Dietetics at the Technological Educational Institute of Crete and a master's degree specialized in "Nutrition and Exercise" from Harokopio University of Athens, graduating with honors. Additionally, she has expertise in eating disorders and holds a diploma in Iridology. In her private practice, she provides applied nutritional education programs and support for physiological and pathological conditions, such as weight loss or gain, pregnancy, athlete nutrition, childhood obesity, chronic diseases, and eating disorders. Furthermore, she has been involved in public education through television and WEBTV on various channels, maintaining a regular presence on zoygla.gr, Channel 9, the show "Athens Nip Tuck," and channel E. She has participated in the European Study of the Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI) program of the World Health Organization for childhood obesity, which was undertaken to be represented in Greece by the Hellenic Medical Society for Obesity in collaboration with the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics of the Technological Educational Institute of Thessaloniki. Finally, she has written and continues to write articles for magazines, newspapers, and scientific health websites, attended numerous seminars concerning the nutrition of children and adults, and has delivered educational lectures to sports clubs, schools, and on television.