Frequently Asked Questions

Your first session can take place either in person at my practice in Larisa or online. The initial session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other in a safe and supportive environment. We will talk about the reason or reasons that brought you to therapy, exploring in more detail what you are experiencing, when it started, how often it occurs, and how it affects different areas of your life. We will also discuss your goals and what you would like to gain from therapy. If appropriate, we may begin to outline the next steps and agree on a therapeutic plan tailored to your needs.

There is no pressure to share more than you feel comfortable with—the process moves at your own pace.

During the first sessions, the psychologist will ask a range of questions to better understand your concerns, your background, and your individual needs.

Some of these questions may relate to the symptoms you are experiencing, when they started, whether there was a specific trigger, how they affect your daily life, and how you have been feeling emotionally.

We may also explore whether you have previously worked with a mental health professional, what you would like to achieve through therapy at this stage, and what your expectations are.

These questions help the psychologist gain a clearer understanding of your situation and guide the therapeutic process in a way that is most appropriate for you. While some of these questions may seem standard, the conversation is always tailored to your unique needs and pace.

It is completely natural to feel hesitant or find it difficult to talk about personal matters, especially at the beginning of therapy.

A psychologist is trained to work with these feelings and can support you in gradually building comfort and trust within the therapeutic relationship.

Here are some ways to approach this:

• Give yourself time: Trust takes time to develop. You are not expected to feel comfortable right away. As you get to know your psychologist, the process will become easier and more natural.
• Talk about your discomfort: You can share that you find it difficult to open up. This helps the psychologist adapt their approach to your needs and support you more effectively.
• Explore what makes it difficult: You might feel worried about being judged, feeling exposed, or sharing personal details. Understanding these concerns is an important step, and they can be explored together at your own pace.

Confidentiality is a fundamental part of the therapeutic process. Psychologists and psychotherapists are bound by strict ethical and legal obligations to protect the privacy of the information shared during sessions.

In simple terms, this means that any information you share will not be disclosed to others without your consent. Confidentiality is also protected under applicable national legislation governing the professional conduct of psychologists.

There are, however, a few exceptional circumstances where confidentiality may need to be broken. This applies when there is a serious concern about the safety, life, or physical well-being of you or others. In such cases, appropriate steps may be taken to ensure protection.

In addition, the practice complies with the requirements of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), ensuring that your personal data is handled securely and responsibly.

A session lasts 50 minutes.

Sessions are typically recommended on a weekly basis, at a day and time we agree on together.

There is flexibility, however, and sessions do not always need to take place on the same day or at the same time if this is not convenient for you.

If weekly sessions are not feasible, we can arrange to meet every two weeks. The frequency of sessions is something we will decide together, based on your needs and circumstances.

In general, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is considered a short-term form of psychotherapy and often lasts a few months.

However, there is no single answer that applies to everyone. Each person progresses at their own pace, and the duration of therapy can vary depending on individual needs.

The length of therapy is influenced by several factors, including the nature of the difficulties you are experiencing, the severity of symptoms, and the level of distress they cause.

This is something we will review together throughout the process, adjusting as needed.

Friends and family play an important role in our lives and can have a positive impact on our emotional and social well-being. They can offer support during difficult times, listen to us, and provide advice.

However, speaking with a mental health professional is a different kind of experience—not simply “talking to a stranger,” but engaging in a structured and supportive process.

A psychologist is trained to understand human behaviour and underlying patterns, and to provide specialised support for a wide range of concerns, including mental health difficulties, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Their approach is grounded in scientific methods, allowing them to offer objective, non-judgmental, and tailored support.

In therapy, you are supported in gaining a deeper understanding of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, while also developing practical strategies that are meaningful and appropriate for you.

Another important aspect is confidentiality. Sessions are private, allowing you to speak openly and freely, without concern about your personal information being shared.

While friends and family provide valuable emotional connection, working with a psychologist can offer a different level of support—one that combines professional expertise, structure, and evidence-based tools to help you navigate more complex or persistent difficulties.