Ioanna Galani

I am a compassionate and integrative couple and family therapist dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families break unproductive patterns, strengthen relationships, and cultivate meaningful change. Currently practicing in Maryland, USA and Athens, Greece. My therapeutic style is trauma-informed, collaborative, and culturally responsive, ensuring that each client feels seen, heard, and empowered in their journey. I tailor my approach to each individual’s needs, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), narrative therapy, family systems models, Gottman Therapy Method, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). Through a balance of warmth, directness, and practical strategies, I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, personality disorders, emotional intimacy, and relational conflict, fostering self-awareness and resilience in a safe, supportive space.

A client review speaks to this approach: “My partner and I first met with Ioanna during a crossroads in our relationship. Ioanna made me feel comfortable almost immediately. I have had difficulties trusting therapists in the past. With her guidance, I was able to reconnect with my partner and strengthen our relationship.” This feedback reflects my commitment to building trust and providing effective, personalized support.

Ioanna Galani is a Licensed Graduate Marriage and Family Therapist (LGMFT) with experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate anxiety, depression, personality disorders, trauma, and relationship challenges. She trained at the Center for Healthy Families at the University of Maryland, where she provided therapy for diverse clients facing suicidality, intimacy struggles, ambiguous loss, and identity exploration.

With specialized training in Gottman Level 1, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Core Skills Level 1, and Prepare/Enrich certification, Ioanna helps couples resolve conflict, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional connection. She also worked with Vima Koino, a Greek organization supporting vulnerable populations, providing therapy and advocacy for individuals and families in crisis.

Ioanna’s trauma-informed, culturally responsive approach tailors therapy to each client’s unique background. She offers in-person and online sessions, creating a safe space for grow

Ioanna Galani is a Licensed Graduate Marriage and Family Therapist (LGMFT) with a strong academic and clinical background in psychotherapy. She earned her Master’s degree in Couple and Family Therapy from the University of Maryland, College Park, where she gained extensive training in systemic therapy, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based interventions for individuals, couples, and families. During her time at the University of Maryland, she worked at the Center for Healthy Families, providing therapy for diverse populations facing anxiety, depression, personality disorders, relationship challenges, and trauma.

In addition to her Master’s degree, Ioanna holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Rhetoric from the University of Maryland. Her research background includes studying cultural influences on identity, mental health, and relationship dynamics. She is also a member of the European Family Therapy Association, further expanding her expertise in cross-cultural therapy and global mental health approaches.

Ioanna has completed specialized training in relationship and couples therapy, including Gottman Level 1 Training, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Core Skills Level 1, and Prepare/Enrich Certification for premarital and couples counseling.