Mental Healthcare for Internationals

I am trained as a Psychologist (Clinical) and as a Psychotherapist (Gestalt). Gestalt Psychotherapy is an existential form of therapy that focuses on the relationship between the client and the therapist. The Gestalt therapist works together with the client using what is happening between them in the here and now rather than what is being talked about. The emphasis is on what is being thought and felt at the present rather than what was, could or should be. I work with my client to support nourishing contact, safety and more freedom in their lives. I work with people from all over the world. Some of the issues I have supported clients with are anxiety issues, depression issues, loss, bereavement, grief, divorce and other relationship issues, personality disorders, trauma, sexual trauma, childhood trauma, moving abroad, feeling stuck in one's job or and or life.

Education is the most important! Look for a therapist that has specifically trained in being a therapist. A psychology degree is not enough! During my Bachelors and my Masters study, we trained in cognitively understanding the work. In my post MSc 4 year Gestalt Psychotherapy study, and all the trainings after that, I learned how to *do* the work. Secondly, feel your way through the first session; trust your gut, you will know. Lastly, choose someone whom you can commit to. A therapy trajectory is a relationship. You have to enjoy it (also when it's hard), and you have to feel connected to your therapist. They will become your "person".

Yes, I offer therapy services in English, as well as Romanian, Greek. I have a very good understanding of Dutch language and culture. I see people for Individual therapy in Madrid/ individual counselling in Madrid and couples therapy in Madrid/ couples counselling in Madrid. Providing English Therapy in Madrid is one of the reasons I relocated and established my Mental health services private practice in the centre of the city. I am native in Greek and Romanian, and I have worked most of my career in English. I have lived in The Netherlands for 13 years, where I also studied in Dutch, so I am quite comfortable in my understanding of the language. During my early professional formation I also studied in Madrid, so I have a very good understanding of Spanish language.

Hard to tell, because it depends on your personal goal. I will give you my professional opinion after a first session, and we will often evaluate together. As a general idea: Therapy duration varies depending on individual needs and goals. Individual therapy takes place once a week at the same time and place. It can be either: short-term (usually 6 to 12 sessions) more structured and focused on solving the identified problem or situation. long-term (lasting for several months) and sometimes even a few years.

Simply contact me by phone or email to schedule your session. I'll work with you to find a time that suits our schedules. Feel free to WhatsApp me as well. +34 613 104 681 info@expatsintherapy.es

I totally understand. It is expensive. The reason is that therapists have a lot of "invisible" costs". A therapist that is up to date and accountable, has monthly supervision within a team that is privately paid, regular private therapy themselves, continuous trainings, insurances, marketing tools, rent, professional registrations- to name a few! Some therapists work with a sliding scale. My fees are listed on my website: https://www.expatsintherapy.es/fees I don't work with a sliding scale, but I accommodate students and unemployed individuals with lower prices. The reason I do not work with a sliding scale is because I find it difficult to be the judge of how much someone is able to pay. However, I try to be clear and transparent about how much I charge, and if the difference is not too great, I am comfortable adjusting my price.

Ah, thats a difficult one for most! I truly believe and have experienced in my work, that the therapeutic relationship is beneficial for most clients. It depends on your connection with your therapist, and the process in which you are when you start therapy. Most people know by the end of the first session if they like their therapist, if they're someone that can trust and work with. I suggest to everyone that asks me this, to give it a go. We are luckily past the years were therapy was a taboo. The therapeutic relationship is a safe space, where you can grow, be challenged, be supported, explore, feel connected. Also, if you're struggling with specific issues, don't hesitate to reach out. It is normal that as a client you cannot maybe imagine how therapy could be of support, but Therapists train for this. We know how to support you, in a way that is not immediately graspable. Some clear issues that can benefit from therapeutic interventions, are anxiety and panic attacks, depression, lack of energy and motivation, , trauma and traumatic experiences, sexual assault, or relationship issues. Therapy can provide valuable support and guidance. My practice is in the center of Madrid.

As an expat myself, I have a very good understanding of the specific nuances of the expat experience and provide multilingual therapy in Madrid. I have lived and worked abroad most of my adult life, with expats and with expat families. I am a third culture kid myself. I am very comfortable working multicultural and multilingually. I use Gestalt Psychotherapy and have my private practice in Madrid.

Yes, confidentiality is a top priority. Your privacy and trust are essential to the process, and all sessions are conducted in a safe and confidential environment.

Yes, I especially have an interest in working with couples in couples therapy to support relationships, improve communication, and navigate challenges. I work with couples online and in person, and I really have a specific interest in couples therapy. My background is in Clinical Psychology (MSc) and Gestalt Therapy.

If I asses that you would be better supported in a different way, by a different professional or modality, i will refer you to a colleague, after discussing my assessment with you.