Health professionals for Trauma in Athens

Vasileiadou Despoina is a Psychologist - Trained Psychotherapist and maintains a private practice in Omonia. She studied at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. She completed her thesis on issues of occupational burnout under the supervision of distinguished professors. She specializes in Gestalt psychotherapy, a holistic and human-centered approach to psychotherapy. As part of her lifelong learning, she attends educational seminars and lectures on topics concerning society and the role of psychotherapy within it. She participates as a group coordinator in caregiver support groups for cancer patients and provides voluntary work in the online program "E-therapy," which aims at crisis intervention. For personal development, she considers it essential to regularly engage in supervision (both individual and group) and personal therapy (individual and group).

Η Μαρινάκου Εύη είναι Σωματική Ψυχοθεραπεύτρια - Σύμβουλος Ψυχικής Υγείας και διατηρεί ιδιωτικό γραφείο στους Αμπελόκηπους Αττικής. Είναι κάτοχος δύο μεταπτυχιακών τίτλων: στην «Επιστήμη του Στρες και την Προαγωγή της Υγείας» από την Ιατρική Σχολή του Εθνικού και Καποδιστριακού Πανεπιστημίου Αθηνών και στις «Εφαρμογές της Ψυχολογίας στην Υγεία» από το Τμήμα Ιατρικής του Αριστοτελείου Πανεπιστημίου Θεσσαλονίκης , με ερευνητικό έργο που εστιάζει σε κρίσιμους τομείς όπως το εργασιακό στρες, το περιγεννητικό τραύμα, η επίδραση του στρες στην υγεία, καθώς και στη φροντίδα ασθενών και φροντιστών. Έχει παρακολουθήσει το Ετήσιο Μεταπτυχιακό Σεμινάριο Εγκληματολογικών Σπουδών στο Πάντειο Πανεπιστήμιο, συμμετέχοντας παράλληλα σε ερευνητικό πρόγραμμα για τη μικρή εγκληματικότητα και τα Ιδρύματα Αγωγής Ανηλίκων. Είναι πτυχιούχος Κοινωνικών και Πολιτικών Επιστημών του Παντείου Πανεπιστημίου. Η επαγγελματική της εμπειρία εκτείνεται σε δύο βασικούς άξονες: την πολυετή (28 χρόνια) παρουσία της στον φαρμακευτικό κλάδο σε θέσεις στρατηγικής και διοίκησης ομάδων, όπου ανέπτυξε ιδιαίτερη ευαισθησία στις επιπτώσεις του επαγγελματικού στρες, & την ενασχόληση με την ψυχική υγεία, παρέχοντας υποστήριξη σε άτομα με συμπτώματα κατάθλιψης, άγχους, μετατραυματικού στρες, δυσκολίες στις διαπροσωπικές σχέσεις και θέματα αυτοεκτίμησης. Έχει προσφέρει τις υπηρεσίες της ως ψυχοθεραπεύτερια σε συλλόγους όπως ο Κ.Ε.Φ.Ι. και η "Πνοή Αγάπης", αναλαμβάνοντας ατομικές συνεδρίες, ομάδες υποστήριξης, εκπαίδευσης και εποπτείας εθελοντών. Παράλληλα, έχει μακρόχρονη εκπαίδευση και εξειδίκευση στη Σωματική Ψυχοθεραπεία και στη Ραϊχική Νευροφυτοθεραπεία, ολοκληρώνοντας εξαετές εκπαιδευτικό πρόγραμμα στο Ε.Ι.Ν.Α. , με μετεκπαιδεύσεις από διεθνώς καταξιωμένους θεραπευτές (Genovino Ferri, Alberto Torre, Xavier Serrano κ.ά.). Το 2024 έλαβε τον τίτλο της Επόπτριας στη Ραϊχική Σωματική Ψυχοθεραπεία. Έχει ολοκληρώσει την πιστοποιημενη Επαγγελματική Εκπαιδευση στην Συστημικη Αναπαρασταση στο Ελληνικό Ινστιτούτο Συστημικής Αναπαράστασης (Ε.Ι.Σ.Α.) Bert Hellinger . Τελος εχει παρακολουθήσει πληθος εκπαιδευτικών σεμιναρίων σε θεματικές όπως η θεραπεία ζεύγους και οικογένειας, η Βιοενεργειακή Ανάλυση και η Ψυχοφαρμακολογία. Τέλος, η ειδικός είναι τακτικό μέλος επαγγελματικών ενώσεων όπως η Πανελλήνια Ένωση Σωματικής Ψυχοθεραπείας (ΠΕΣΩΨ), η European Association for Body Psychotherapy (EABP), η Εθνική Εταιρεία Ψυχοθεραπείας Ελλάδος (ΕΕΨΕ) και η European Association for Psychotherapy (EAP).

Melpomeni Perdikari is a Clinical Psychologist MSc - CBT Psychotherapist and maintains a private practice in the center of Athens, in Omonia. She holds a degree in Psychology from the University of East London, UK, and a Master of Science (MSc) in Clinical Psychology from the same university. Additionally, she is a trained Cognitive Behavioral Therapist from the Center for Applied Psychotherapy and Counseling - Lifelong Learning Center. Beyond her private practice, the specialist works as a Clinical Psychologist - Scientific Supervisor at a residential facility for individuals with autism. Finally, Ms. Perdikari is a member of the British Psychological Society (BPS).

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.

Episkepsy Matthaios Zazanis Kai Synergates Psyxologoi-Psyxotherapeutes is a Psychologist - Integrative Psychotherapist with a Person-Centered orientation and is a co-founder of the Counseling Center for Education and Psychosocial Support epi S.K.E.P.S.Y. as well as the scientific director of the center in Ano Patissia. He has specialized training in addictions and mental disorders and is certified by Greek, British, and American organizations. Throughout his career, he has encountered distinguished mentors who serve as an inspiration to him.

Myrto Maniati is a Psychologist - Psychotherapist and maintains a private practice in Syntagma. She holds a degree from the Department of Psychology at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, with a professional practice license (39100-1449). Additionally, she has completed postgraduate training in Clinical Psychopathology at Aeginiteio Hospital, as well as Clinical Training in Group Dynamics in Psychiatric Settings (in collaboration with the Hellenic Society of Psychoanalytic-Oriented Psychotherapy (ΕΕΨΨΟ)). Her scientific specialization concerns psychoanalytic and psychodynamic psychotherapy for adults, children, and adolescents from the Center DI.KE.PSY. (Interdisciplinary & Research Psychosocial Support for Children and Adults). Her professional career began in France, where she worked in mental health facilities, providing psychological support and counseling to adults and socially vulnerable groups, as well as to children and adolescents. From 2018 to 2022, she worked with humanitarian organizations, offering psychological support to vulnerable refugee populations. She collaborated with the Heraklion Mental Health Center, providing psychotherapy services to adults. Finally, she currently maintains a private practice where she offers personalized psychotherapy and counseling services.

Kandiliotis Danae is a psychologist - psychotherapist and has a private office in the centre of Athens. She holds a BSc, MSc in Psychology and is a member of the Hellenic Association of Psychologists. Community of Behavior Analysis. In addition, she has completed two years of study at the two post-graduate trainings in the Department of Sociology of Panteion University, two post-graduate trainings in Cognitive-Behavioural Psychotherapy and is a Behavioural Analyst. In her office she undertakes a variety of clinical cases, mainly anxiety disorders, mood and personality disorders. She has worked extensively with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and has attended as speaker at conferences, workshops and television shows. In addition, she has conducted internship at the Smile of the Child and has also been a collaborator of the Local Mental Health Promotion Team of the Municipality of Nea Smyrni and other institutions. Finally, she has attended numerous seminars and trainings regarding Psychology issues and Psychiatry, while she is also involved in issues of work and Organizational Psychology. She serves in the Athens area, in the centre of Athens and in the area of Ampelokipi. Both offices are located at a minimum distance from metro stations.

Giannakopoulou Maria is a Psychologist - Psychotherapist providing individual sessions both in-person and online. She has been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). She offers psychotherapeutic support to adults, adolescents, and children, focusing on understanding and modifying dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors related to anxiety, mood, and interpersonal difficulties.

She studied Psychology at the University of Derby and completed her training in Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy at the Center for Applied Psychotherapy and Counseling. Additionally, she holds a Master's degree (MSc) in Counseling and Guidance from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.

She has worked in private and public mental health institutions, supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, depressive symptoms, relationship difficulties, and self-esteem issues.

Within the therapeutic setting, she emphasizes a collaborative relationship with the client and the clear formulation of goals. Through understanding cognitive and emotional patterns, the aim is to develop more functional ways of thinking and behaving, as well as to enhance psychological resilience. The therapeutic process is individually tailored, taking into account each person's needs, pace, and objectives.

Simultaneously, she regularly participates in supervision and professional development programs, aiming for continuous professional and personal growth.

Gkotsi Xristina is a Psychologist - Psychotherapist and maintains a private practice in the central area of Athens, on Akadimias Street. She holds a degree in Psychology (University of East London) and a degree in Sociology (Panteion University). She pursued and completed her postgraduate studies in Psychology at the University of East London, deepening her scientific understanding of human behavior and mental health. She follows the approach of Systemic Psychotherapy, focusing on the dynamics of relationships and the broader contexts within which individual difficulties develop. Additionally, she holds a Master's Degree in Criminal Law and Addictions from the Law Department of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, specializing in the legal and therapeutic management of addictions. Simultaneously, she has participated in numerous scientific seminars, continually investing in her professional development. Her interdisciplinary training allows her to approach mental health and addiction issues holistically, combining legal, social, and therapeutic perspectives. Her passion and genuine interest in the field of addictions have led her to ongoing education, research activities, and publications in scientific journals. She has worked and volunteered in organizations supporting vulnerable social groups and in addiction rehabilitation centers, gaining valuable clinical experience. In recent years, she has worked in the academic environment of a private higher education college as the Head of Psychology Studies, teaching Clinical and Social Psychology courses, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience, and imparting to her students a passion for the science of Psychology.

Dimitris Aggelopoulos is a psychotherapist and educator specializing in Group Analysis. In his private practice, located in the center of Athens, he provides individual and group psychotherapy to individuals facing challenges in their personal lives, relationships, or mental health. His goal is not only the relief of symptoms, but also the emergence of each unique individual and the discovery of new ways of behavior and perception, focusing on healthy relationships and a sense of fulfillment.

He firmly believes that psychological difficulties are not solely individual problems, but mirrors of society, the relationships, and the groups within which we live and interact. Through Group Analysis, he utilizes the function of the group to facilitate the revealing of hidden aspects of the self, offering honest feedback and creating a space where individuals can express themselves freely, without fear of judgment. The group operates as a microcosm of relationships – a dynamic reality in which changes do not remain theoretical, but significantly impact the members’ broader lives.

Dimitris Aggelopoulos fosters an environment of safety and trust, where each person has the opportunity to face their challenges and cultivate the distinctive characteristics of their personality. Psychotherapy is not a luxury, but a vital investment in the relationship with ourselves and others.

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.

Semeli Balta-Messari is a Psychologist and Dance Therapist who maintains a private practice in Neos Kosmos. She graduated from the Department of Psychology at the University of Crete (2018). She holds a specialization in Jungian – Psychodynamic Counseling through Dance Therapy under the supervision of the Hellenic Center for Training – Psychotherapy through the Arts (Hellenic-British College of Athens), which she successfully completed in 2022. She has been trained in the Laban Movement Analysis (LMA) system and the Authentic Movement technique. The therapeutic model she follows combines Counseling Psychology techniques with the analysis of symbols and dreams, the approach to archetypes through creative methods, the Authentic Movement technique, and the Active Imagination technique. She has worked as a psychologist and dance therapist in both private and public institutions, providing psychological and counseling support to children, adolescents, and families, as well as populations with increased social and psycho-emotional needs. Currently, she is coordinating auxiliary work, as a specialist scientist, for the “Women InterACT” group at Restart Theater Athens, within the framework of a European program addressing the dual exclusion of women.

Saliverou Elisavet is a Psychologist - Psychoeducator - Psychotherapist, holding a Master's degree (MSc) in Counseling Psychology (National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Excellence Scholarship), with studies in Psychology, Education (National and Kapodistrian University of Athens), and Social Work (University of West Attica). She has been trained in Systemic – Family Psychotherapy and maintains a private Counseling – Psychotherapy practice. Simultaneously, she is responsible for the Counseling Service and social initiatives of HEN Athens and coordinates educational and psychoeducational programs for children, adolescents, adults, and parents. She has collaborated with organizations such as ELIZA, the "Together for the Child" hotline, SOS Children's Villages, and the Social Psychiatry Company P. Sakellaropoulos. She applies an integrative therapeutic approach (Systemic, Psychoanalytic, Narrative, Art Therapy) to various mental health issues of children, adolescents, and adults.

Chrysa Kritikou is a clinical psychologist and trainee psychotherapist, maintaining a private practice in Koukaki. Her academic journey began with undergraduate studies in the Department of Education Sciences and Early Childhood Education at the University of Patras. During her studies as a kindergarten teacher, she developed a strong interest in psychology, which led her to decide to pursue a new cycle of studies abroad.

After completing her first degree, she undertook a second undergraduate degree in the Department of Psychology at Leiden University in the Netherlands. Subsequently, she completed postgraduate studies in Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychology at the same university. She then proceeded with the recognition of her degrees by DOATAP and obtained a license to practice as a psychologist.

With a consistent focus on continuous scientific advancement, she actively participates in seminars and scientific conferences, continuously enriching her knowledge and clinical skills. Within the framework of her specialization, she has attended, among others, the Clinical Psychopathology seminar "Panagiotis Oulis," which substantially contributes to her clinical practice.

She is currently attending the four-year Clinical Specialization Program in Systemic Psychotherapy at the Institute for Education and Research "Logo Psychis," which is based on the SANE (System Attachment Narrative Encephalon) model, a comprehensive approach that combines systemic theory with emotional attachment theory.

Katerina Toulgaridou is a Psychologist - Systemic Psychotherapist and maintains a private practice in Gyzi. She graduated from the Department of Psychology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) and completed her internship at the “Thetis” Shelter of EPAPSY. Immediately after her degree, she began a four-year training in Systemic Psychotherapy at the Laboratory for the Investigation of Human Relations. In recent years, she has been working by providing individual psychotherapy and counseling sessions to adults. Her aim is to create a profound therapeutic relationship within a safe, warm, and supportive environment, enabling the patient to explore their emotions, thoughts, and various aspects of the self.

Vavassori Nina is a Psychologist who maintains a private practice in the Panormou area, offering sessions with adults and adolescents both in-person and online. She is fluent in Greek, English, and French, facilitating the therapeutic relationship in multicultural settings and with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. She studied Psychology at DEREE – The American College of Greece and holds a master's degree in Applied Clinical Psychology from the University of Bath in the United Kingdom. Since 2020, she has been training in Systemic Family and Group Psychotherapy at the Athens Center for the Study of Man (ACMA). Her professional experience as a Psychologist includes working in schools with children and adolescents, providing psychological support in a hospital setting, as well as volunteering for telephone support services related to domestic violence. Currently, she also works as a Psychologist in a multinational company and privately sees adolescents and adults for both in-person and online sessions.