The Practice
I am Maria Chlivinou, a psychodynamic and relational psychotherapist with over twelve years of clinical experience, including more than a decade of post-qualification practice.
My work has developed across a range of settings in the United Kingdom and internationally, including psychotherapy services in the public sector (NHS), the voluntary sector, and private practice. Through these roles, I have supported adults navigating anxiety, trauma and complex trauma, relational difficulties, emotional overwhelm, and significant life transitions.
The approach
My approach is trauma-informed and integrative, grounded primarily in psychodynamic and relational psychotherapy. This means we explore not only what is happening in the present, but also the deeper emotional patterns and relational experiences that may shape how you experience yourself and others.
Understanding often develops gradually, as connections between present experiences and earlier relational patterns begin to emerge over time.
The therapeutic relationship itself becomes an important part of the work, offering a space where experiences can be reflected on, understood, and approached in new ways.
Therapy offers a confidential and safe space where thoughts, feelings, and experiences can be explored openly and without judgement.
I work primarily with individuals and adolescents, and also have experience supporting couples and relational work where helpful.
I also have particular experience working with expatriates and individuals navigating life between cultures. Living across countries or cultural contexts can bring unique questions about identity, belonging, and adjustment. Therapy can offer a reflective space to explore these experiences and reconnect with a sense of stability and direction.
Therapy is offered online and in person, in English and Greek.
I am a Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and a licensed psychologist in Greece.
Experience, Training & Professional Background
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Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) in Psychodynamic Psychotherapeutic Counselling - University of Brighton (2016)
BSc (Hons) in Psychology - London Metropolitan University (2010)
Certificate in Counselling - Varndean (2014)
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Certificate in Mindfulness and Self-Compassion - Mindful Self-Compassion Programme – KindfulWay
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy – BACP
Eating Disorders and Complex PTSD – Psychology Sussex
Systemic Principles and Couples Therapy – EFT Greek Network
Psychological Perspectives on the Migration Crisis – Danish Refugee Council (DRC)
Sexual Abuse Trauma Training - Survivors Network
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I have over twelve years of clinical experience working across NHS services, the voluntary sector, and private practice in the United Kingdom and internationally.
My early clinical work took place within NHS and community-based services, where I provided psychological support, delivered trauma-informed interventions, and worked collaboratively with health and social care professionals.
As part of my work in the voluntary sector, I delivered trauma-informed psychological support at Survivors Network, a specialist sexual violence and abuse support service in Sussex, UK.
Over the years I have worked with adults experiencing a range of psychological difficulties, including anxiety, trauma and complex trauma (PTSD), low mood, relational difficulties, emotional overwhelm, and periods of life transition or uncertainty.
My work is grounded in psychodynamic and relational psychotherapy and informed by trauma-aware approaches. I aim to offer a thoughtful and supportive therapeutic space where experiences can be explored with care, curiosity, and respect for each person's pace.
I am a Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and a licensed psychologist in Greece.
I am a Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and a licensed psychologist in Greece.
Maria Chlivinou - Psychotherapist (UK) | Licensed Psychologist (GR)
mchlivinou@gmail.com