Marina Papadopoulou

The way I approach individuals who seek my help is rooted, above all, in empathy, acceptance, and a deep belief in the power of change. My approach reflects the principles of Systems Theory and Community Psychology, viewing each person not as an isolated individual but holistically—as a member of the environments in which they live, interact, and communicate. I also integrate elements from art and play therapy, and cognitive techniques. During sessions, we will work to discover each person’s strengths and resources, rather than simply reinforcing narratives of problems and deficits, which can be discouraging and disempowering. My work with individuals experiencing exclusion focuses on empowerment, helping them find their voice and take action toward change. My experience collaborating with autistic & adhd individuals has deepened my interest in the literature on neurodiversity acceptance—challenging dominant approaches that aim to "fix" differences, regardless of whether they actually cause distress to the individuals themselves. Finally, in parental counseling, my goal is not just to provide generic pedagogical advice that one could find in any book, but to truly understand what works and what challenges each unique family based on its own dynamics and relationships. I aim to empower parents who doubt their abilities and focus on fostering channels of communication between them, their children, and their partners.

I work as a psychologist in private practice offering virtual sessions (August 2023 to today). Recently, I started offering in-person sessions in Berlin. Previously: Psychologist - Center of Developmental Intervention (January 2020-July 2023)_ Family Counseling, Adolescent and Child Counseling, Socioemotional intervention for neurodivergent children and teens. Psychologist - Greek Fund of European Aid for the Most Deprived (July to December 2019)_Individual and group therapy for marginalized members of community, mental health awareness events. Psychology intern (Addiction rehabilitation) - Self Help Promotion Program (November 2017 - August 2019)_ Individual and group therapy for people suffering from addiction, community rehabilitation events.

2018 Psychology_ Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. A broad view to the field of psychology, with an interest in minority identities 2021 Master in Public Health & Health Policy _ Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Studying on social barriers to mental health services 2024 Master in Social Psychology _ Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Critical studies on marginalized groups and intersectionality. TRAININGS About art therapy: Facilitation of creative groups though theatre play. About systemic approach: 2-year education on Systemic Therapy Systemic Therapy for Children: Art and play in therapy. About parent and family counseling: Parent counseling Gordon's Parent Effectiveness Lab About child and adolescent therapy: Child psychology and play About neurodiversity: Psychotherapy of Social and Emotional Development in Autism Spectrum Disorders Autism masterclass Intensive interaction About addiction treatment: Critical approaches in addiction treatment