Ana Guimaraes

My therapeutic approach is integrative, built upon the core foundation of Humanistic Psychology. This ensures our work is centered on a strong, trusting relationship characterized by genuine empathy and unconditional positive regard. Alongside this relational framework, I bring in foundations of Narrative therapy to explore the stories you hold about yourself and your life. I utilize evidence-based tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you gain practical skills to identify and modify unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. In our initial sessions, we focus on deeply understanding your needs and goals - although these too can change during our work. This collaboration directly informs our therapeutic direction, ensuring the process is a shared and evolving experience tailored specifically to you. It will be a growing experience that we will explore together.

Current Private Practice (2020 – Present): Focused on providing high-quality, integrative therapy to a diverse international clientele, including expats, migrants, and individuals navigating life transitions. This role builds on extensive cross-cultural experience, offering flexible and client-centered care. Psychologist in Crisis and Humanitarian Contexts (2015 – 2017): Served in various international and crisis environments, gaining specialized expertise in supporting individuals with high-acuity disorders. This work included extensive intervention for PTSD, severe anxiety, and depression in vulnerable populations, contributing to an overall caseload of over 100 individuals in complex psycho-social-economic circumstances. Thematic Work with Refugees & Migration (2013 – 2014): Provided dedicated psycho-social support and mental health assessment at the Portuguese Council for Refugees. This foundational experience focused on addressing the acute psychological impacts of migration, displacement, and cultural adjustment, informing my current cross-cultural competence.

MA in Justice Psychology and Deviant Behaviour (Distinction) Bachelors Degree in Psyhcology