Irene Emilianidou
Clinical Psychοlοgist
Irene Emilianidou is a Registered Clinical Psychologist with a strong foundation in psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and mental health research. She received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Leiden University in the Netherlands, followed by combined master’s degrees in Clinical and Health Psychology (research) and Clinical Psychology (applied) from the same institution.
Irene received training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) at Leiden University, in Psychodynamic Therapy at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, and in Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) under the mentorship of Dr. Leslie Greenberg, one of EFT’s primary developers. She also specialized in Play Therapy and Child’s Drawing Therapy through the DIKEPSY Institute in Athens.
She is certified in the administration and interpretation of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-V) and has further expanded her expertise by completing training in the facilitation of psychoeducational workshops with EFPSA (European Federation of Psychology Students’ Association). In 2022, she was also trained and certified as a TeamUp Facilitator by War Child NL, a program providing psychosocial support to displaced children through play and movement.
As part of her clinical practice, Irene worked at Hope for Children CRC Policy Center, at Athalassa Psychiatric Hospital, at Menogeia Detention Center, and at Kofinou Reception and Accommodation Center for Refugees.
Her clinical experience includes assessment and intervention, individual psychotherapy, parent and family counseling, and facilitating psychoeducational workshop. She has worked with individuals across all age groups, addressing depression, anxiety disorders, trauma-related disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, and emotional or behavioural challenges.
As part of her clinical research practice, Irene worked at the Social Learning Laboratory at Leiden University, where she contributed to research on the effects of parental social anxiety on children’s social behaviour. Her thesis examined the impact of parental verbal communication on the development of childhood social fears.
Irene adopts an individualized approach to therapy, tailoring her interventions to meet the unique needs of each individual and fostering a supportive, collaborative therapeutic relationship.
Specialisation
Clinical Psychology
Clinical Psychology is a specialized field within psychology that concentrates on the real-world use of psychological principles to address and remedy mental health challenges and disorders. This branch emphasizes the prevention, evaluation, diagnosis, and intervention of intricate human behaviors, problems, and conditions (APA, 2023).
Clinical psychology delves into the evaluation, diagnosis, and therapeutic treatment of mental ailments. Utilizing a diverse array of theories and methods, clinical psychologists guide individuals in comprehending and navigating their emotions, thoughts, and actions. These professionals cater to a broad spectrum of individuals, from children and teens to adults and the elderly. They can operate in both individual and group capacities, offering their expertise in various environments such as hospitals, clinics, educational institutions, and private practices.
Specialisation Benefits
- Clinical psychologists offer evidence-based therapy to help individuals manage and overcome mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression, leading to improved emotional well-being.
- They provide assessment and diagnosis of psychological disorders, facilitating early intervention and appropriate treatment planning.
- Clinical psychologists offer a safe and confidential space for individuals to discuss their concerns and develop coping strategies, leading to enhanced self-awareness and personal growth.
- They work with clients to improve their relationships and interpersonal skills, promoting healthier connections and communication with others.
