Why I am specialized in this field
I started my career working as an intern Psychologist at Pulido Valente Hospital (one of the largest public hospitals in Portugal) supporting in and outpatients with OCP-chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. After finishing my degree I joined a non governmental organisation (NGO) that supports institutionalised children infected and affected with HIV/Aids. I worked as a Psychologist with a multidisciplinary team of other clinicians as Doctors, Nurses, Physiotherapists and Social Workers providing care and support to these children and their families. I then joined another NGO that focused on prevention and promotion of Mental Health near to disadvantaged and unprivileged people. I worked with community and other social services and implemented mental health programs to be provided to the community such as individual and group therapy to children, adolescents and adults, planned and conducted organisation skills training programs for adolescents and conducted group psychoeducational interventions to adolescents and elderly people, and provided Couples therapy.
I am trained in Psychodynamic therapy, Person-Centered therapy, CBT-cognitive behaviour therapy, Play therapy, DBT and ACT-acceptance commitment therapy. I use an eclectic approach combining those theories and is able to use other blended theories such as, Art therapy and Mindfulness to fit the client’s needs.
Through this experience I learned how to work with clients from all age groups and backgrounds. I am passionate about mental health challenges in children, adolescents and adults while promoting mental wellbeing, and helping my clients live a full and meaningful life.
Prior to joining BE Psychology Center, I worked in a private clinic, where I counselled children, adolescents, adults, and couples, experiencing a wide range of psychological issues, such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, emotional difficulties, depression, low self-esteem, behavioural issues, relationships difficulties, poor and emotional skills, anger management, psychoeducation and parenting support, life transitions.