Stavroula Sanida

Interview conducted by Elizabeth Wahlert - Athanssiadis/ Freelance writer and editor

Stavroula Sanida is a psychologist and psychotherapist. She was awarded a BA in Psychology in 2003 and a MSc in Mental Health in 2005 from Ethnikon kai Kapodistriakon Panepistimion Athinon. Cognitive Behaviorial Psychotherapy (CBT ) is an area that she specializes in. Her private practice in psychotherapy was established in June of 2006 and is located in Lykovrisi. Stavroula has recently been elected as a member of the board of Athens WING.

Motivation to choose psychology as a profession
"I had been always fascinated by the "journey of self knowledge". I was inspired by Socrates' theory of the human psyche and his way of thinking. As I like helping people overcome their challenges, I obtain personal satisfaction when I am able to provide guidance and make suggestions by which they can find positive means by which they can alleviate or minimize their concerns."

Inspiration
"The emotional world of every human being can be likened to a complex machine that frequently is in need of "repair". I am inspired by every person who seeks my help. I try to get into their world, to understand them better, and together to find ways of resolving difficulties. Every person poses a challenge to me: offering help and understanding, the mystery of their existence. In the process I grow as well."

A life altering opportunity
The AEGEE summer cultural exchange programmes from 1997 – 1999 under the auspices of and subsidized by the European Union, broadened Stavroula's horizons and afforded opportunities for to assimilate a greater understanding and appreciation for cultural differences. Two week stays in Malta, Italy, Poland, and Belgium as a member of multinational groups of university graduates from all EU member states had a dynamic impact on her professional and personal growth and development. Moreover, they were instrumental in the acquisition of character traits of a global world citizen with a greater understanding and appreciation of the impact of history and environment on the behavior of the members of the group.

Professional challenges and setbacks
The current economic crisis in Greece has necessitated the need for greater flexibility and creativity on a professional and personal level. Stavroula advocates that women should use this time frame as an opportunity to become motivated to "think out of the box" and initiate new, innovative, and creative ways to problem solve professional challenges.

Professional services offered:

• Individual session with a focus on challenges in dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, grief, interpersonal relationships and relationships
• Small group seminars on issues related to emotional well being such as: Crisis management, Stress management, Dance therapy workshops,
  Self expression through creative writing, Parental counselling, Vocational guidance for adolescents

Words of advice

• If you have a dream, take the initiative to make it a reality even if you encounter challenges at the onset and along the way. Be open to all experiences as learning is ongoing process on both daily and moment to moment levels.
• Use the financial crisis as a motivating force by which you can be more creative and find ways to become more flexible. For instance, Stavroula organized a peer supervision group with colleagues from different therapeutic approaches.
• Network with other women from different cultural backgrounds and common aspirations. Participate in professional organizations and special interest groups. These organizations provide invaluable support and encouragement as well as opportunities for professional and personal growth and development coupled with initiatives for collaboration and cooperation.
• Offer your services voluntarily in your area of professional expertise. Stavroula offers counseling at the health centre of the municipality where she lives to those who would not have the financial means to avail themselves of her services by any other means.
• Attend training programs that help you grow personally and professionally. Stavroula attends an e-seminar on "Story telling" during this period with Juliet Bruce, an American psychotherapist.

November 2011