Rita Seixas
Clinical Psychologist
I specialise in:
About me
I am a portuguese clinical psychologist specialized in cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT) from the Faculty of Psychology of the University of Lisbon. With a keen interest in integrative psychotherapy and the value of diverse conceptualizations and techniques, I have expanded my knowledge of other therapeutic approaches. I completed a postgraduate program in social-cognitive therapy (systemic/constructivist approach) at the University of Barcelona, followed by a Master’s in psychological assessment and a PhD in emotion regulation and its relationship to job burnout, both at the University of Luxembourg.
My career merges clinical practice with scientific research. I began in 2007 as a clinical psychologist and as part of community projects supporting migrants at risk of social exclusion. Later, I transitioned into academia, earning my PhD while working as a research assistant at the University of Luxembourg. After six years immersed in addiction research, I returned to clinical work, primarily with migrant and refugee populations.
Currently in my practice, I work with clients facing depression, anxiety, personal and work-related stress, relationship challenges, and life crises. I also support individuals dealing with loss, grief, and severe trauma-related symptoms.
Beyond psychology, I have a passion for dance and am a dedicated practitioner of yoga, meditation, and breathwork. These and other mind-body tools are integral to my life and my practice, as they enhance emotion regulation, stress management, and the ability to navigate life’s challenges with balance and flexibility.
As an integrative therapist, I continually expand my knowlegde and practice to other science-based approaches. I am particularly interested in experiential approaches, notably in emotion-focused therapy and in as well as third-wave CBT (ACT).
I am a humanist, and my practice is rooted in the principles of integrity, acceptance, respect for diverse cultural and religious backgrounds, non-judgement and transparence.
I speak:
Location:
Approach
I am a clinical psychologis with an integrative approach to therapy. Each person is unique, and "what works" for one may not work for another, asking for continous learning, knowledge, skills and flexibility from the therapist.
I work rooted on my primary training in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) while remaining flexible and tailoring science-informed interventions from different approaches to meet each client’s individual needs. In addition to my CBT background, I am trained in social-cognitive therapy (systemic/constructivist approach) and in emotion-focused therapy.
A warm and secure therapeutic relationship is the foundation of effective therapy. My role is to guide and support clients on their journey towards reducing suffering, achieving their therapeutic goals, and ultimately improving their well-being.
My approach integrates emotion-focused, experiential, and existential techniques, alongside the more structured (didactic or directive) CBT methods. I also emphasize mindfulness techniques promoting the connection between mind and body in therapy. These techniques are often incorporated into sessions to help manage anxiety, stress, intrusive thoughts, insomnia, and improve emotion regulation. These practices can foster a more balanced and grounded state of mind.
I encourage clients to remain curious and explore the relationship between their physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual dimensions. Our sessions will be conversational, but I may also invite you to engage in practical exercises both in and out of the clinical setting. The therapeutic process is designed to create a safe space for you to share and explore all aspects of yourself, helping you develop tools to navigate current life challenges more effectively.
If you would like for us to work together, don't hesitate to contact me (and mention your availabilities).
