Ana Xavier
Counsellor
I specialise in:
About me
I am a clinical psychologist trained at the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), one of Brazil’s top universities, where I completed five years of academic education grounded in scientific rigor, clinical practice, and humanistic values. Over the past three years, I have worked in private clinical settings with a strong focus on neuropsychological assessment and intervention, offering support for clients across the lifespan, from children to adults.
My clinical expertise centers around neurodivergence, including ADHD, autism spectrum conditions, and giftedness/high abilities. I work to bring clarity and validation to these experiences through comprehensive evaluations and therapeutic support. In addition, I have solid experience working with mood and personality disorders, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality traits. My approach is structured yet flexible, always tailored to the unique profile and needs of each client.
As part of my academic journey, I completed an exchange program at Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) in Munich, Germany, where I expanded my international perspective on psychological science and mental health care.
I believe in a therapy process that is both scientifically grounded and deeply human. I value listening, clarity, and collaboration, not just as techniques, but as the foundation of a meaningful therapeutic relationship. My role is not to provide ready-made answers, but to walk alongside clients as they explore their emotional world with honesty and courage. I bring a calm and attentive presence into the room, combining structure with empathy to create a space where vulnerability feels safe, and where even the most complex experiences can be welcomed with respect and care.
I speak:
Location:
Approach
I believe therapy is a space for honesty, a place where we can stop pretending and start making sense of what hurts, what repeats, and what needs care. I don’t see my role as fixing you, but rather walking alongside you while you untangle what feels confusing or heavy.
My approach is collaborative and human. We’ll build a relationship based on respect, curiosity, and trust, where your experiences are not judged, but explored with care and clarity. I use tools from cognitive-behavioral therapy, ACT, and compassion-based approaches, always adapting to what makes sense for you. Sometimes we’ll investigate patterns of thinking that are keeping you stuck. Other times, we’ll focus on emotional regulation, setting boundaries, or simply learning to stay present in the face of discomfort.
Some clients come to therapy looking for answers. Others just want to breathe. Wherever you are in your process, my goal is to help you feel safe enough to be real, and strong enough to change what can be changed.
