Mental Health and Counseling results in the Southern suburbs of Athens

The INTERNUS counseling and psychotherapy center, led by clinical psychologist Mr. Kargakis Emmanouil - Internus, maintains offices in Heraklion, Rethymno, Chania, and Athens, offering a wide range of services concerning treatment, rehabilitation, prevention, and promotion of mental health, primarily based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Mr. Kargakis, a graduate of the Department of Psychology at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki with postgraduate studies in Clinical and Counseling Psychology at La Salle University of Philadelphia, and his experienced associates, supported by a modern and continuous framework of supervision, training, and professional development through attendance at national and international psychology conferences, ensure the provision of the most advanced mental health services. Over the years, our center has developed activities and collaborations with various organizations such as SOS Children's Villages, O.E.V.E.N.H, O.E.V.E.N.X, secondary education tutoring centers, schools of various levels, sports clubs, educational seminars for the general public, appearances on television and radio programs, and contributions to local blogs. Sessions are conducted by appointment either in person or online.

Papaioannou Natassa is a Psychologist - Child Psychologist and maintains her private practice in Alimos. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the Open University of the United Kingdom and completed her postgraduate studies in developmental psychology with distinction (Master of Science in Child Psychology) at the University of Central Lancashire, England. As part of her ongoing education and training, she is being trained in the approach of Systemic Family and Couple Therapy at EPIPSY (Research University Institute of Mental Health), as well as in the theoretical foundations and practice of the modern and innovative therapeutic approach ‘Play Therapy.’ Additionally, she is a certified member of Play Therapy (PTUK - Play Therapy UK) in England. She has served as a Psychologist at the largest special education school in the Balkans (EEEAK of Agios Dimitrios) and in child protection structures in both the public and private sectors, most notably at SOS Children’s Villages, where she continues to provide her services always with the aim of the best possible service tailored to the individualized needs of each person she undertakes. Since 2020 and to the present, she has also been working at the Aiginiteio University Hospital of Athens (1st Psychiatric Clinic) as a Psychologist in research projects. The pioneering results of the research conducted so far have been published in two reputable international scientific journals. Finally, it is worth mentioning that sessions are available for both adults and children, offered in-person as well as online.

Pateraki Emmanouela MSc, is a Psychologist - Psychotherapist and maintains a private practice in Lykovrysi. She graduated from the Department of Psychology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) and holds a master's degree (MSc) in Applications of Psychology in Health from the Medical School of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. She has specialized in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for adults at the Center for Applied Psychotherapy and Counseling (KE.PSY.SY). The specialist has also specialized in the Treatment of Eating Disorders at the European Institute of Counseling and Psychotherapy (EICP Institute) and in Special Education and Training: Diagnostic, Therapeutic, and Counseling at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA). Her goal is to provide individualized psychological support to adolescents and adults facing issues related to anxiety, panic attacks, and depressive symptoms, eating disorders and body image concerns, emotional difficulties and relationship problems, learning and behavioral difficulties, as well as issues of self-esteem and personal identity. Currently, she specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy with children and adolescents at the Center for Applied Psychotherapy and Counseling (KE.PSY.SY).

A Step Beyond is a center for Counseling, Psychotherapy, Personal Development, Wellness, and Prosperity Growth. It was established by Kentro Psyxikis Ygeias Kai Euimerias A Step Beyond - Katranis Konstantinos Kai Synergates with the aim of providing therapies to individuals who wish to overcome their problems, to make their lives fuller and more beautiful, and to be guided towards wellness and prosperity through the necessary and appropriate means. The center’s specialists act as allies and companions for those who seek to discover new strategies and apply them, to enhance and utilize their internal resources, to learn new things or to view old matters from new perspectives, to heal traumas, to acquire new skills, to overcome fears and phobias, to eliminate chronic stress, and to live mindfully in the present moment, setting goals and achieving them. At A Step Beyond, the individual’s needs are addressed by selecting the appropriate specialist from among the trained Psychologists, Psychotherapists, Mental Health Professionals, or Personal Development Counselors to design a flexible and tailored evolution plan for each person.

Thelouras Nikolaos is a Psychologist who runs his private practice in Ano Ilioupoli, providing mental health services with professionalism and consistency. He is a graduate of Cardiff Metropolitan University in the UK, holding a primary degree in Psychology, and continued his academic career at the postgraduate level at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, in the School of Medicine, where he graduated with honors in Forensic Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine. He is a member of the teaching staff of the Psychology Department at IST College, which collaborates with Wrexham University, actively contributing to the development of new skills and knowledge. His professional training is enriched with further education in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy through the International Psychotherapy Center "ALYPIA". Additionally, he has received certified training in the use of the psychometric tool MMPI-2 through ISON Psychometrica. In clinical practice, Mr. Thelouras has significant experience working with both adults and children and adolescents. With adults, he addresses various difficulties, focusing primarily on sexual health issues, anxiety, and the management of psychosocioemotional difficulties, while also working as an external collaborator in a private facility with children and adolescents presenting developmental disorders, ADHD, and other behavioral difficulties. His services are conducted under ongoing supervision to maintain scientific rigor and professionalism. His academic training, professional experience, and continuous education make him a well-rounded professional in the field of mental health.

Anita Prodromou, always respecting the uniqueness of each individual, is a PhD candidate at the University of Essex in the United Kingdom. She is a Psychologist and has been operating a private practice in Piraeus (near the train and metro station) since 2012. She is a member of the SEPS, BPS, and BACP. She holds a degree in Integrative Counselling with a specialization in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Essex. Additionally, she holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and Counselling from the University of Derby. She is also certified by the BPS as a supervisor of psychology students and professionals. Her approach is Integrative Counselling, incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as Person-Centered Therapy, always respecting the individual. The focus of the therapeutic process depends on each unique case. Following the initial assessment session, the most appropriate therapeutic approach is selected based on evidence-based research as the most effective method for each individual. Sessions are available for adults, adolescents, young adults, children, families, and couples.

Η Αρβανίτη Βασιλική είναι Σύμβουλος Ψυχικής Υγείας - Ψυχοθεραπεύτρια και διατηρεί ιδιωτικά ιατρεία στην Αθήνα και στον Άγιο Δημήτριο. Κατέχει μεταπτυχιακό τίτλο στην Εφαρμοσμένη Θετική Ψυχολογία (MSc in Applied Positive Psychology, University of East London, το πρώτο τέτοιο πρόγραμμα στην Ευρώπη), καθώς και στη Συνθετική Συμβουλευτική & Ψυχοθεραπεία (PGDip in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy). Επιπλέον, είναι μέλος της British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). Η εκπαίδευση και η προσέγγισή της στη Συμβουλευτική είναι η Συνθετική. Αυτό στην πράξη σημαίνει ότι η θεραπευτική προσέγγιση και οι όποιες συνεπακόλουθες τεχνικές και δραστηριότητες προσαρμόζονται κάθε φορά στις συγκεκριμένες ανάγκες του εκάστοτε συμβουλευόμενου. Οι προσεγγίσεις που κατά βάση χρησιμοποιεί είναι η υπαρξιακή, η προσωποκεντρική και η Γνωσιακή-Συμπεριφορική. Παράλληλα, όπου χρήσιμο, αξιοποιείται η κατεύθυνση της Εφαρμοσμένης Θετικής Ψυχολογίας και οι δραστηριότητές της, ώστε πέρα από την εστίαση στην αντιμετώπιση των δυσκολιών, να δουλεύουμε πάντα με γνώμονα την αναγνώριση, την κατανόηση και την κατάλληλη ανάπτυξη και αξιοποίηση των δυνατοτήτων μας, με σκοπό την εδραίωση της ψυχολογικής μας ανθεκτικότητας σε γερά θεμέλια και τελικά την ψυχολογική μας άνθηση. Ψυχοεκπαιδευτικά, έχει εργαστεί για την εφαρμογή θεμάτων της Θετικής Ψυχολογίας ως Σύμβουλος και Συντονίστρια για μια σειρά οργανισμών, σε Αγγλία και Ελλάδα, μεταξύ των οποίων: τo Βρετανικό Μουσείο (consultancy και εργαστήρια), The Iris Project (συνεργαζόμενο φορέα του Πανεπιστημίου της Οξφόρδης), The Light Box (για την προαγωγή της Θετικής Ψυχολογίας στις κοινότητες μέσω της τέχνης), σε δημόσια και ιδιωτικά σχολεία, σε κέντρα νέων, ιδιωτικές επιχειρήσεις και φυσικά στον τομέα της ψυχικής υγείας. Άξιο αναφοράς είναι ότι έχει διδάξει στα Μεταπτυχιακά Προγράμματα της Εφαρμοσμένης Θετικής Ψυχολογίας & Coaching Ψυχολογίας καθώς και της Συνθετικής Συμβουλευτικής & Ψυχοθεραπείας στο Μητροπολιτικό Κολέγιο της Αθήνας (Metropolitan College). Είναι ιδρυτικό μέλος της Ελληνικής Εταιρείας Σχολικής Ψυχολογίας (HASP). Τέλος, εξειδικεύεται στην Κατάθλιψη, τις Διαπροσωπικές Σχέσεις και τις Διαταραχές άγχους και διάθεσης.

Maria-Christina Kosteli is a Psychologist, PhD, CMPC, MBACP, with extensive academic and professional experience in psychology, counselling, and sport psychology. She has been a Senior Lecturer at Edge Hill University in the United Kingdom since 2017, having previously worked as a Lecturer in Psychology at Kingston University in London.She holds a PhD in Sport Psychology from the University of Birmingham, where her research focused on psychological imagery. She also holds a postgraduate degree in Athletic Counseling from Springfield College in the United States.Her professional experience includes counselling students and athletes, with a particular focus on self-awareness, decision-making, stress and time management, the achievement of personal and academic goals, and the development of effective coping strategies. During her time as an Athletic Counselor at Fordham University, she provided individual counselling and support to student-athletes, helping them navigate academic and personal challenges while developing effective study and coping skills.She also has extensive international experience in counselling and is a Registered Counsellor with the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy). She is also a licensed Psychologist in Greece.Her approach is based on personalised counselling and psychological support, with the aim of helping individuals better understand their personal needs, strengthen self-awareness, and develop practical skills to manage everyday challenges more effectively.

Elizampeth Stamou is a Psychologist - Neuropsychologist with clinical and research experience in the field of mental health and neuroscience. She possesses a strong scientific background in the study of brain function through neuroimaging, with a particular interest in the relationship between the brain, behavior, and psychopathology.

She has extensive professional experience in London, having worked as a clinical scientist in leading hospital institutions such as King’s College Hospital, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, and Cleveland Clinic London, focusing on neuroimaging for preoperative assessments in populations with neuro-oncological disorders, epilepsy, and complex neurological conditions.

Simultaneously, she is actively engaged in adult psychotherapy, specializing in eating disorders (Master Practitioner in Eating Disorders) and with extensive experience in the assessment and treatment of anxiety, depression, neurodevelopmental difficulties (autism spectrum, ADHD), as well as complex challenges in daily functioning. Her therapeutic approach is integrative and individualized, combining Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, contemporary evidence-based models, and person-centered understanding, aiming for meaningful and sustainable change. She places particular emphasis on women’s mental health, supporting women with chronic hormonal conditions and the psychological and physical impacts these have on daily life.

Alexandra Xristodoulopoulou, MSc, is a Psychologist with a private practice in Piraeus. She graduated from the Department of Psychology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, with postgraduate studies in Criminology from Panteion University. She has specialized in Addiction Counseling through KETHEA in collaboration with the University of San Diego, as well as in Special Education (ASPAITE). She possesses extensive professional experience in public mental health and social care structures, having worked, among others, as a clinical psychologist at a Mental Health Center, as an addiction psychologist in OKANA facilities, and with vulnerable groups such as victims of gender-based violence, migrants, and refugees. Additionally, she has significant experience working with children and adolescents, both as a school psychologist and in the Child Psychiatry Department of Tzaneio Hospital in collaboration with the National Public Health Organization (EODY). In her private practice, she provides psychological support to adults, children, and adolescents, focusing mainly on anxiety disorders, depression, grief management, coping with traumatic experiences, addictions, as well as issues related to sexual orientation and gender identity. She also offers parental counseling aimed at strengthening the parental role and improving family functionality. Her therapeutic approach is based on Cognitive Analytic Psychotherapy, emphasizing the creation of a trusting, accepting, and safe relationship. Her goal is to facilitate a profound understanding of the individual's difficulties and support them in the process of personal change and empowerment.

Maria Touliatou is a Psychologist - Systemic Existential Therapist and maintains a private practice in Piraeus. She studied Philosophy, Pedagogy, and Psychology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and subsequently graduated from the Psychology Department of the same University. She trained in Systemic-Existential Psychotherapy and Family Therapy for children, adolescents, and adults at the educational and therapeutic center "Antistixi D & E Karagianni." She has attended training sessions and experiential seminars in Play Therapy at the Drama Therapy and Play Therapy Center "Erma," in Adolescent Psychopathology at the General Hospital of Athens "G. Gennimatas," as well as in communication techniques with oncology patients at the Anticancer Hospital of Piraeus "Metaxa." Additionally, she has successfully completed the Postgraduate program "Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Family Needs, Promotion of Mental Health of Families with Children and Adolescents" at the Medical School of Athens. She has completed practical training at the Attica Chronic Disease Hospital, in the Psychiatry – Psycho-oncology Service of the Anticancer Hospital of Piraeus "Metaxa," and in the Child Psychiatry Department of the General Hospital of Piraeus "Tzaneio." Finally, she works psychotherapeutically with children, adolescents, adults, and couples in her private practice, while maintaining collaborations with therapeutic centers and mental health facilities, participating in and organizing lectures and seminars, and engaging in article writing.

Lydia Vossou, MSc, is a Clinical Psychologist – Psychotherapist specializing in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and maintains a private practice in Glyfada, offering services to children, adolescents, and adults. She possesses comprehensive academic training in the field of Psychology. She completed her undergraduate studies (BA) in Psychology at the American College of Greece (Deree) and at the Open University of the United Kingdom, with a minor in Biology. She holds a Master of Science (MSc) degree in Clinical Psychology from Utrecht University. She has completed recognized training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) according to EABCT standards and continuously updates her knowledge in contemporary therapeutic approaches. She has experience in the use of psychodiagnostic instruments (WISC-V, WAIS-V, MMPI-2) and has been trained in relaxation techniques, mindfulness, EMDR, and therapeutic interventions for sexual dysfunctions. She completed clinical training at the University Clinic of the "Agia Sofia" Children's Hospital and collaborates with specialized mental health organizations, such as the Institute for Research and Therapy of Behavior, as well as reputable online psychotherapy platforms. In her clinical practice, she places particular emphasis on creating a safe, collaborative, and confidential therapeutic relationship. She provides evidence-based interventions tailored to the individualized needs of each person, aiming for a meaningful understanding of difficulties and sustainable psychological empowerment. She is a member of the Greek Psychological Society and actively participates in scientific conferences and initiatives, continuously investing in the ongoing development of her clinical practice.

Lykourentzou Xrysanthi is a Mental Health Counselor with a private practice in Glyfada. She studied Psychology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and holds a diploma (HPD) in Counseling & Psychology from the Mediterranean College. She possesses a Training Certificate in "Couples and Family Counseling and Therapy" from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, as well as a Training Certificate in "Cluster B Personality Disorders." She has worked at the Psychological Support & Therapy Company (E.PSY.THE), providing individual sessions to clients. Her specialties include Counseling, Anxiety Disorders, Person-Centered Approach, Personality Disorders, as well as Couples and Family Counseling and Therapy.

Anastasakou Eleni is a Psychologist and Psychotherapist specializing in psychoanalytic approaches, maintaining a private practice in Dafni, Attica. She holds a degree from the Department of Psychology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) and is a trainee member of the Hellenic Society of Psychoanalytic Group Psychotherapy (HSPGP). She completed her postgraduate studies in the program "Promotion of Mental Health and Prevention of Psychiatric Disorders" at the Medical School of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. She is an external collaborator with the Developmental Pediatrics Unit of the General Children's Hospital "Panagiotis & Aglaia Kyriakou" (2nd Pediatric Clinic). She has trained and collaborated with mental health institutions and public bodies, such as Aiginiteio Hospital, 1st Psychiatric Clinic (general population, eating disorders, and sexual disorders) and the Society of Social Psychiatry and Mental Health (residential facilities, day center for psychological support of cancer patients). Moreover, she has collaborated with organizations such as the Municipality of Ilioupoli, providing individual and group psychotherapy, with tutoring centers (Dimokritos, Keratsini) organizing talks for parents and adolescents, parent counseling, and with the NGO Praksis for psychosocial support and mentoring of unaccompanied minors. She collaborates with centers in Athens offering psychotherapy services for children, adolescents, adults, and parent counseling, both individually and in groups. Finally, she has attended numerous seminars and trainings related to mental health aiming at her continuous professional development and education.

Vergou Dimitra is a Psychologist with a private practice in Agios Dimitrios. She graduated from the Department of Psychology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, with additional training in Clinical Psychopathology at the "Panagiotis Oulis" program. She also holds a diploma in Cognitive-Behavioral Psychotherapy from the Center for Applied Psychotherapy and Counseling. She has extensive experience, having worked at the 401 General Military Hospital of Athens, in a refugee program at The Smile of the Child organization, at the Scientific Association of Adapted Activities "Victor Artant - Niki," and at specialized therapy centers. She has participated in numerous conferences and educational seminars, with several scientific publications presented at some of these events. Finally, she specializes in stress management, parental counseling, and panic attacks – phobias.

Georgia Mpertsia is a Clinical Psychologist and Cognitive-Behavioral Psychotherapy Therapist. She specializes in treating anxiety, phobias, panic disorders, depression, relational and family difficulties in adults, adolescents, and children. Additionally, she teaches at a private college in Attica. She graduated from the Department of Psychology at Panteion University of Athens, and completed her postgraduate studies with honors in Clinical Psychology at the University of Central Lancashire, UK. Her specialization was carried out in the Cognitive-Behavioral Psychotherapeutic Approach. Her clinical experience includes mental health and rehabilitation facilities such as K.E.TH.E.A DIAVASI, E.P.A.PSY, and private support structures for individuals with disabilities. She has been trained in clinical and translational research as a member of the Laboratory of Experimental Psychology and Neuropsychology at Aiginiteio Hospital. Currently, she collaborates with private psychotherapeutic institutions in Attica. She has been trained in clinical assessment and administration of Psychometric Tools for the investigation of Anxiety, Mood, Depression and Mania, Cognitive Functions/Mental Functionality in healthy and clinical populations. Finally, she has participated in and attended numerous conferences and seminars in the field of Psychology and has published a variety of articles in collaboration with online mental health platforms.

Xaroutiounian Roza is a Psychologist – Psychotherapist and maintains a private practice in Piraeus. She holds a BSc (Hons) in Psychology from the University of East London and has been trained in Integrative Counseling and Psychotherapy by the Psychological Support, Therapy, and Education Society – E.PSY.TH.E. She has also completed the program "Couples and Family Counseling and Therapy," as well as the "Medical Psychology" program at the Center for Training and Lifelong Learning (KEDIVIM) of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, further enhancing her scientific expertise in relationship issues, family dynamics, and the connection between mental and physical processes, contributing to comprehensive and holistic support for her clients. In her practice, she manages a wide range of cases, always focusing on providing the best possible service tailored to the individual needs of each person she works with.

Georgakopoulou Eui - En Ekseliksei was born and raised in Athens. She completed her studies at the University of West London, earning a Bachelor of Psychology with honors (BSc Hons). She graduated with distinction from Coventry University, obtaining a postgraduate degree MSc in Occupational Psychology. She has received further training in Counseling, Diagnosis & Intervention in Eating Disorders (Master Practitioner), Life Coaching, Coaching in Organisations (Gestalt Foundation), and Career Counseling. She has extensive participation in seminars and training programs focusing on individual psychotherapy, crisis management, research methodology, the organization and operation of Parenting Schools, and Career Counseling. She has presented at conferences on Professional Counseling for Mental Health Service Users. She has also been active in adult education through collaboration with a reputable educational institution, conducting workshops and seminars on topics drawn from the field of psychology. She holds a professional license to practice as a psychologist. She is a member of the British Psychological Society (BPS), registered in the Registry of Graduate Psychologists of SEPS Cyprus, and a member of the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) – the 14th Division of the American Psychological Association (APA). During her studies, she collaborated with the Psychiatric Clinic "Dromokaiteio." She has many years of experience in Career Counseling, having worked with former alcohol users and individuals with psychosocial difficulties. She collaborates with a Psychosocial Rehabilitation unit and also practices privately at her office in Nea Smyrni, fully engaging in clinically supervised work. She deals with issues of personal and professional development, relationship counseling, adults, adolescents, broader needs for self-awareness and empowerment, mood disorders, eating disorders, anxiety management, career change, and the overall achievement of goals.