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Photo of woman having questions and reservations, trying to decide whether she needs psychotherapy and who is the right specialist or psychologist

Questions about psychotherapy that you actually have.

Not just typical "frequently asked questions." Honest answers to the real doubts, reservations, or concerns you might be facing.

Real questions, honest answers

FAQ - Questions and Answers.

Choosing to enter therapy is an act of strength and maturity. It is one of the most significant and defining decisions you can make for yourself. Having questions, reservations, or even doubts about the process is not only logical—it is completely expected.

Recognizing this, we have gathered your real concerns and answered them with simplicity and honesty, making it easier for you to decide both whether you need therapy, and whether we are the right specialists for you.

Before you decide

Can't I solve my problem on my own?

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You likely could, but it usually isn't about your strength or abilities. It is about where you are positioned. Let's look at why it can be so difficult.

Psychological struggle — How it is perceived by the person experiencing it

Imagine a maze. When you are inside it, all you see are walls. You look for an exit, you try different paths, you turn back, and you try again. Sometimes you hit a dead end. Other times you move forward—but at a very slow pace. The effort may have exhausted you or made you wonder if an exit truly exists.

It is not your fault. You are inside the problem, inside the maze—and it is only natural that from your current vantage point, the exit remains invisible.

The Psychologist — Perceiving the problem from a broader perspective

Now imagine someone viewing that same maze from above. They can see exactly where you are, where each path leads, and the shortest route to the exit.

This is the role of the therapist—to understand your specific maze and, based on your skills, strengths, and endurance, guide you toward finding your own path out. Not because they are smarter or more capable—but because they have dedicated their life to training for this: recognizing mazes and creating maps based on what you share with them.

If this seems theoretical, consider that even psychologists themselves, being aware of these human limitations, seek their own therapy for their personal challenges.

Do I really need therapy, or am I overreacting?

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If you are considering it, the answer is likely yes.

There is no problem "too small" or "too large" to seek help. If something concerns you enough to lead you to this page, it means it is affecting your life, and that in itself makes it significant.

Most of us tend to believe that the problems we face will resolve themselves, that we can manage without guidance, or that we should passively tolerate them as an inevitable part of reality. This often results in becoming trapped for months, years, or even decades in unpleasant, problematic, and often emotionally painful situations, even when a way out almost always exists — we simply didn't know how to find it.

Consider someone who feels there is a mechanical issue with the car they drive, which also carries their loved ones. They wouldn’t hesitate to visit a mechanic, nor would they feel that doing so somehow undermines their character or self-worth; they see it as a practical necessity.

Reaching out to a specialist for a challenge you face is not a sign of weakness; it is an act of responsibility, strength, and maturity.

Is it perhaps not the right time? Should I wait a little longer?

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There is no "perfect" moment to start psychotherapy. Usually, the best time was "yesterday." The next best time is now — the moment you realize that you no longer deserve to struggle and you decide to take action.

There is a specific phrase we hear almost always, from very different people. We hear it from 25-year-olds and from 65-year-olds. From entrepreneurs and from students. From those who reached out after months of hesitation and those who waited for years. They don't say it with regret—they say it with relief:

"I should have done this sooner."

How do I choose the right psychologist?

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Your most important decision is reaching out to a specialist. Your second most important decision is this one — and it is worth being selective.

There are certain factors you can verify in advance: academic background (degrees, postgraduates, certifications), specialization, experience in the specific issue you face, and the therapeutic approach they follow.

However, there are things that cannot be seen on any CV: whether you will feel comfortable with them, whether you feel they are truly listening — and understanding you — and whether you and your therapist "fit" as individuals.

This is exactly why, at our centre, the first session is provided at no charge. We want you to be able to determine, without any risk, if we are the right choice for you.

Psychologist, Psychiatrist, Psychotherapist, Counselor — what is the difference?

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Psychiatrist: A medical doctor specializing in psychiatry. They can prescribe medication and primarily focus on the biological dimension of mental health—neurochemical imbalances and pharmacological treatment.

Psychologist: A scientist with a degree in Psychology who focuses on understanding human behavior, emotions, and thought processes. They do not prescribe medication.

Psychotherapist / Counselor: These terms are often used to describe the clinical professional you will actually work with in sessions. A Psychotherapist is a Psychologist with advanced, multi-year clinical training in specific therapeutic models. While "Counseling" often refers to shorter-term support for specific issues, Psychotherapy goes deeper into the roots of patterns and behaviors. Our team consists of specialized Psychologists who provide both high-level psychotherapy and counseling, ensuring you receive more than just general advice.

In practice: In most cases, counseling or psychotherapy is sufficient on its own. If we determine that concurrent collaboration with a psychiatrist is necessary to stabilize a neurochemical issue, we will inform you. Our priority is to ensure you are working with the right specialist for your specific needs.

Is there any chance I might regret it?

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No. To this day, not a single one of our clients has regretted starting psychotherapy. On the contrary, a large percentage regret that they hesitated or delayed making the decision.

Counseling & Psychotherapy does not take anything away from you; it provides tools, understanding, and a clearer perspective on yourself and your life. Even when the journey is not always easy, what you gain is invaluable and stays with you forever.

Fears & Concerns

I’m afraid I won’t feel comfortable or that I’ll be judged.

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This is the most common concern—and the most natural one.

By definition, you should not encounter judgment from any psychologist or psychotherapist. However, how comfortable you actually feel depends entirely on the therapist as a person. No degree or certification can guarantee that connection.

This is precisely why the therapists in our team were selected through a rigorous and time-consuming process, from among hundreds of candidates—not only for their knowledge and experience, but for who they are as individuals: for their warmth, their capacity for acceptance, and their ability to make the person sitting across from them feel at ease.

Will anyone find out?

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No. For us, confidentiality and discretion represent far more than a simple professional or legal obligation. They are the foundation of our practice and the basis upon which every relationship of trust we have developed is built.

We maintain what is arguably the leading confidentiality policy in Greece and one of the most stringent at a European level. Our policy includes strict internal regulations, protocols, confidentiality agreements, and GDPR compliance, extending to specialized policies we have developed for our clients—from our general operating principles down to the smallest detail.

In practice, this means:

  • We inform you from the very first session about the specific cases where the law requires us to provide information.
  • Your personal data is never shared with third parties.
  • We do not disclose or confirm that someone is a client—even if asked by family members.
  • The buildings where our offices are located house various health professionals—no one knows which specialist you are visiting.

If you belong to a demographic where discretion is a necessity rather than a preference, we offer special arrangements that go far beyond standard practice.

What happens if I see you in public?

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We follow a clear protocol: if your psychologist meets you outside the therapeutic setting, they will not initiate contact and will act as if they do not know you. If you choose to speak to them, they will respond politely without revealing, directly or indirectly, the nature of your acquaintance.

Under no circumstances should you feel obligated—even for the sake of politeness—to acknowledge your therapist outside of psychotherapy if doing so causes you any discomfort or concern.

Can I recommend you to someone I know?

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Of course—and we would deeply appreciate it. The majority of our clients reach out to us through a recommendation from someone who has already trusted us. For us, this is the most meaningful recognition of our work.

It is important to know that: under no circumstances do we provide information about you to the person you recommend, nor do we inform you as to whether they eventually contacted us or not. Confidentiality applies in both directions—always.

My situation is unique. Can you handle it?

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Yes. Our founder, Elli Noitsi, possesses years of experience in managing complex, high-demand situations—ranging from leadership challenges and corporate dynamics to high-profile couples and family dynamics in high-stakes environments.

If your circumstances require bespoke handling, specialized expertise, or absolute discretion—or all three—please contact us directly.

What if I don't "click" with my therapist?

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Nothing is lost.

The initial introductory session is provided at no charge and exists for this exact reason—to meet your therapist, see if you feel comfortable, and decide without any pressure if you wish to proceed.

Before you begin, we carefully assess your needs, and you are matched with the therapist who possesses the specialization and experience relevant to your specific concerns.

If, for any reason, you feel that it’s not the right fit, you can try with another one of our therapists—at no cost, with no difficulty, and with absolutely no awkwardness. You have much to gain and nothing to lose.

Therapy in practice

What happens during the first session?

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The initial introductory session is provided at no charge and is entirely commitment-free.

You don't need to prepare anything. Your psychologist will listen to you, understand your concerns, and explain how they can help. Together, you will see if you feel at ease, if you "click," and if you wish to proceed.

You won't be asked to analyze your entire life or open up more than you want or feel comfortable with. The first session is an introduction — exactly as it sounds. Its purpose is for you to evaluate us, while we also determine whether we can provide you with meaningful help.

At the end, if you decide to continue, your therapist will inform you of the procedural details, and together you will establish the scheduling and financial parameters that best suit your needs.

Do I need to know exactly what is wrong before I come?

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No. Many people who reach out to us don't know exactly what is happening—they only know that something feels off. That is enough.

You might feel that "something is bothering you" without being able to name it. You might be facing multiple issues at once and not know where to start. You may even believe your problem "isn't serious enough" or, conversely, that it feels "insurmountable."

None of this is an obstacle. Clarifying what you are going through is part of our work—that is what your therapist does, together with you, from the very first sessions.

How long will therapy last?

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The honest answer is: it depends. It depends on the type, nature, and depth of the issue, your personality, and your own commitment to the process.

Certain issues you face may resolve within a few weeks. Others, deeper or more complex, may require several months.

What we can tell you with certainty:

There is no minimum commitment. You continue only if and for as long as you feel that psychotherapy is benefiting you — not a single session more. If you resolve the issues you came to work on, we will be the ones to tell you, even if you haven't realized it yet. We have no incentive to keep you longer than you truly need. Our goal is to help you reach the point where you no longer need us as quickly as possible.

How will I know if therapy is working?

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The simplest way is to write down how you feel before you begin. At regular intervals, do the same and compare the notes. This is the most effective way to truly see how far you have come and how much you have evolved.

Changes in psychotherapy are often incremental and continuous, though this does not mean there won't be intense moments and dramatic realizations. Usually, however, progress happens gradually—to the point where you might not even notice how much ground you have covered.

You may soon notice differences in the way you think and function. But you are also likely to see changes in how others behave toward you—because they are reacting differently to the "new" you.

You might realize that something which used to upset you now hardly affects you. Or that you react differently to a situation that previously felt difficult. These are not coincidences—they are signs that something is changing.

At the same time, your therapist will evaluate your progress with you at regular intervals—openly and honestly.

Do I need medication?

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Psychotherapy does not involve medication. It is based exclusively on the therapeutic relationship and the partnership between you and your therapist.

In some cases, concurrent pharmacological support from a psychiatrist may be beneficial—either initially, to stabilize a neurochemical issue, or alongside your sessions. If we believe that such a step would benefit you, we will discuss it with you openly. The final decision is always yours.

Is there a commitment? Can I stop at any time?

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There is no commitment whatsoever. You begin and continue only if you believe it is beneficial to you.

Our only request is that you remain consistent with your scheduled appointments—whether introductory or regular—and that you notify us in a timely manner if you are unable to attend.

Practicalities

What is the duration, frequency, and cost?

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Session duration: 50 minutes.

Frequency: Standard practice is once per week. However, the frequency can be adjusted based on your individual needs.

Cost: We will discuss the cost during your initial introductory session. Our goal is to provide and make the highest possible quality of services accessible to the widest possible range of clients.

Online or in-person?

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Ideally, in-person. Physical presence allows for a more comprehensive interaction between you and your therapist—capturing body language, energy, and subtle nuances that might be lost through a screen.

However, if in-person visits are not feasible—due to distance, travel, scheduling, or personal preference—online sessions are a highly effective alternative. Many of our clients attend therapy exclusively online, joining us from other cities or from abroad.

Where are you located?

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Our Center serving the Northern Suburbs is located in the heart of Kifissia at 1 Miltiadou St., just 20 meters from Kassaveti St. The facility primarily hosts healthcare professionals, featuring a discreet entrance and parking 30 meters away.

Our second Center serving the Southern Suburbs is located in the Glyfada commercial district at 21-23 Lazaraki St. & Metaxa. It is situated in a building mainly for healthcare providers, 50 meters from the Tram station.

Through our Online services, we can support you no matter where you are, whether in Greece or internationally.

Do you have experience with my specific issue?

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Before you begin, we review your needs together, and you are paired with the therapist who possesses the specialization and experience specifically related to what you are facing.

If we determine that we are not the most suitable mental health professionals for your particular case, we will inform you immediately and, if possible, recommend another specialist who can better assist you.