Maria Giannaki

My therapeutic approach is grounded in systemic thinking, which helps us see how our relationships and social context shape the way we feel and behave. I offer a warm, inclusive space where people can explore intimacy, self-image, and emotional connection, while developing awareness and resilience. Whether we are discussing relationships, sexual health, or personal challenges, I aim to support each person in finding clarity, confidence, and a sense of empowerment in their own journey. . I use active listening, empathy and education as the foundation of my practice, believing that accurate information, personal responsibility and social awareness are the key to empowerment.

My professional journey is centered around psychosocial support, stigma reduction, and the empowerment of individuals experiencing social exclusion. Since 2018, I have been a Volunteer with Positive Voice in Thessaloniki, working as part of a multidisciplinary team that provides psychological support and empowerment to sex workers. Since September 2025, I have been Volunteer Psychologist with Positive Voice, working as part of a multidisciplinary team that provides psychological support and empowerment to people living with HIV. Through counseling, awareness initiatives, and streetwork, I contribute to promoting inclusion, health awareness, and community connection. I also worked as a Sexual Health Counselor and Streetworker at Positive Voice, offering psychosocial support and risk-reduction counseling, conducting HIV, HBV, HCV, and Syphilis testing, and coordinating appointments and client services. This role strengthened my ability to build trust and provide care in diverse and often challenging social environments. During my internship at "KETHEA", a Greek organization that helps people overcome addiction, I participated in group therapy sessions, family interventions, and educational programs focused on addiction recovery. This experience provided me with hands-on exposure to therapeutic models and harm reduction principles.

My name is Maria and I am currently training in Systemic Therapy and Counseling in Thessaloniki, deepening my knowledge of relationship dynamics, communication, and therapeutic interaction within the systemic framework. I pursued a Master's in Criminal Law and Addictions at the Law School of Aristotle University in Thessaloniki. My master's thesis "The experience of workers in the field of harm reduction: A narrative approach" focuses on understanding the lived experiences of professionals working with vulnerable populations and the challenges of harm reduction work. Last but not least, I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the School of Philosophy at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, where I developed a strong foundation in understanding human behavior and mental health. My undergraduate thesis, "Child abuse and mental distress in adulthood", explored the long-term psychological impact of childhood trauma from both psychological and social perspectives.