Counselling Psychology

Counselling Psychology is a pluralistic and integrative approach that recognises the uniqueness and complexity of each individual. In many countries—including Greece, the UK, and the US—the role of a Counselling Psychologist is sometimes confused with that of a Mental Health Counselor or Counsellor. These are distinct professions with different pathways, levels of training, and different bodies regulating each role. “Counselling Psychologist” is a protected professional title, and the training typically involves 3 years full time of postgraduate university doctoral -level study/training, extensive supervised clinical practice, personal psychotherapy and research. Counselling Psychology is grounded in the Scientist–Practitioner model, which means practitioners are trained to integrate scientific research with clinical expertise to provide effective, evidence-based psychological care.

As a Counselling Psychologist, rather than adhering to a single therapeutic model, I have been trained to tailor my approach to meet each client's unique needs.My approach is integrative and flexible. It is informed primarily by Relational Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, through extensive theoretical studies and advanced reflective clinical training, and supported by my ongoing personal therapy and clinical supervision with Psychoanalysts. I also draw on and integrate approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy(CBT) and third wave therapies( e.g. ACT, CFT) when these can support your individual needs.

The Collaborative Therapeutic Relationship

Counselling Psychology, rooted in scientific knowledge and humanistic values, places the therapeutic relationship as the central space for growth. It values addressing the client’s difficulties in a relational, person-centred, and ethically attuned way, highlighting collaboration and mutual responsibility. Developing a “good enough,” democratic relationship that fosters authenticity, empowerment, respect, shared exploration, relational depth, co-construction of meaning, and an understanding of people on an emotional, cognitive and relational level, while also considering their social, and cultural contexts are of central importance.

Relational Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy

Relational Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy is a contemporary, integrative, dynamic and flexible approach. It is informed by Relational Psychoanalysis (Mitchell, Greenberg), Self Psychology (Kohut), Object Relations Theory (Klein, Winnicott, Fairbairn), Attachment Theory (Bowlby), Intersubjective Theory (Stolorow, Atwood, Orange, Stern), and Interpersonal Psychoanalysis (Sullivan, Levenson). These influences guide my understanding of relational patterns and shape my therapeutic stance.

This approach emphasizes the vital role of relationships in shaping our emotional life. Emotional difficulties are often rooted in early relational experiences and early relational trauma, developmental challenges, or unconscious conflicts. These patterns can persist into the present, influencing not only behaviours and thoughts but also how we relate to ourselves and others. Healing and change unfold through emotional presence, reflective dialogue, and the transformative power of human connection.

Intersubjectivity and the Therapist's Subjectivity

A core element of Relational Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy is intersubjectivity — the dynamic, mutual emotional influence between two people in relationship. In line with Counselling Psychology, the Relational Psychoanalytic Perspective recognizes the therapeutic process as co-created, with both client and therapist actively shaping what unfolds.

Both Relational Psychoanalytic Practice and Counselling Psychology, recognize the therapist's subjectivity as essential to the therapeutic process. I do not work as a distant expert, but as a thoughtful, emotionally present partner — engaged in reflection, curiosity, and responsiveness. Together, we explore the meanings of your experiences and develop insights that support your growth.

In keeping with a reflexive stance, I use my subjectivity in an ethical and responsible way: not to direct the therapy, but to deepen the therapeutic process and strengthen our therapeutic connection, while maintaining emotional safety. I pay attention to my own emotional responses, which may reveal unconscious aspects of your inner world, and notice how early patterns can reappear within our interactions. These moments can create opportunities to bring awareness to deeply embedded and internalised relational dynamics.

We move at your pace, with care, curiosity, and respect. I remain attuned to your evolving needs, adjusting my therapeutic interventions as the therapeutic process unfolds.

Ultimately, the therapeutic relationship provides a living space for exploration and reflection. Here patterns may be identified, new perspectives considered, and opportunities for self-awareness and improved relating to oneself and others may arise. Over time, engaging in this work can support personal insight, self-awareness, and a greater sense of agency, depending on your individual journey and engagement in the therapeutic process.

Initial Sessions and Referrals

Our initial sessions will focus on getting to know each other and determining whether I am the right person to help you. We will explore your presenting concerns, hopes for therapy, and any specific preferences. At the start of therapy, we will discuss and agree on the goals of the work, ensuring you understand the potential benefits and any limitations of the process. This includes the scope and limits of confidentiality, so you know when information may need to be shared for safety reasons.

I am committed to providing an inclusive and culturally sensitive environment, respecting your unique background, identity, and values without discrimination. Any notes or information shared during our sessions are securely stored in line with legal and professional requirements, and only accessed as necessary for the therapeutic process.  

We will also consider any factors that could affect the consistency of sessions—such as health issues, work demands, or travel. If it becomes clear that another professional would better meet your needs, I will try to offer a referral to an appropriate service or specialist.

Establishing the Frame and Providing Feedback 

Establishing a clear and mutually agreed therapeutic frame is essential for safety, trust, and effective collaboration. This includes agreeing on session frequency, fees, cancellation policies, and boundaries around communication outside of sessions, all in line with professional and ethical standards.

We will periodically hold review sessions to reflect on progress and make adjustments if needed. You are encouraged to share any thoughts, questions, or concerns at any point. Open dialogue helps address misunderstandings early, supports cultural and individual considerations, and deepens the therapeutic process.

Confidentiality and Ethical Practice

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of our work together and is handled with the utmost care and professionalism in line with the Codes of Conduct of the Association of Greek Psychologists (ΣΕΨ) and the British Psychological Society (BPS), and the Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics of the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

What you share in sessions remains confidential, with the exception of situations where there is a clear and imminent risk of harm to yourself or others. If such a risk arises during therapy, I will aim to discuss my concerns with you and, if necessary, involve a trusted family member, friend, or relevant professional service to ensure safety.

Please note: My services are not suitable for individuals who are under 18 or who are currently at any risk (e.g., harm to self or others). If you are in immediate danger, please contact your local, emergency services (e.g. police or hospital) or a crisis mental health line such as 1018.