About Maria Michalakopoulou
Why Dragonfly?
In many cultures, the dragonfly symbolises change, transformation and self-realisation. Change can often be accompanied by mental and emotional maturity, leading to a deeper understanding of ourselves and life. I believe therapy can be a journey, which can lead to change and transformation, should one be willing to take it.
How I work
I am passionately committed to finding out what feels safe for each client, in order to offer a safe, therapeutic space, with empathy, warmth and unconditional positive regard. I work in a holistic way, bringing awareness to mind, body, emotions and soul (aka "true self", “authentic self”). I deeply believe that authentic, human relationships are a powerful tool towards positive change. I believe in the uniqueness of each human being and appreciate that "one size doesn't fit all", which is why my continuous commitment to training over the years has enriched my skills & knowledge and allows me to adjust my approach to client needs.
I have a particular interest in life transitions, self-esteem/confidence, shame, trauma, loss, diversity (cultural, ethnic etc.) and self-development related issues. However, I have worked with clients from all kinds of backgrounds and with a variety of issues over the years.
I offer short-term and long-term therapy, as well as single session counselling, which was introduced by Windy Dryden; it implies that the one session may well be the first and last session, and the aim is that the most is made of that session. Some clients also use single-session counselling as an exploratory session, to decide whether longer-term therapy is potentially beneficial to them and their circumstances. Clients I have worked with have found me "kind, compassionate and non-judgmental", they have mentioned feeling safe and at ease, able to explore different parts of themselves, as well as finding our sessions insightful. It has always felt a privilege being trusted by a client enough to allow me to hold (space for) their pain and suffering, as well as to witness them change and grow.
Outside of work, I have been enjoying Conwall's natural beauty for the past 12 years. I also used to live in Lancashire. I often find myself taking long walks on Cornwall's coastal paths. A good book might often accompany these should the right place be spotted, and we are lucky enough to enjoy the sun's company!
My Experience
Before I qualified as a counsellor, I spent a few years teaching English as a second language to children and young people. I have also been a support worker to children and adults with disabilities for about 18 years.
As a therapist, I have worked with clients on a wide range of issues and have gained considerable experience in working with clients who have experienced trauma, low self-esteem and self-confidence, depression, anxiety, panic attacks & relational issues, as well as clients who have experienced abuse in childhood or self-harm, people suffering burnout, refugees and other minorities (this is not an exhaustive list).
Qualifications & Training
Counselling Supervision & Psychology Training
- Level 6 Certificate in Therapeutic Counselling Supervision (CPCAB Accredited)
- Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling (CPCAB Accredited)
- Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (CPCAB Accredited)
- Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills (CPCAB Accredited)
- MSc in Psychology of Child Development
- PGDip in Psychological Studies
Other Degrees
- BA Race & Ethnic Studies & Women's Studies
Approaches & Ways Of Working
- Pluralistic Therapy - An Introduction
- Human Diversity, The Challenge of Meeting the Other: Person-Centred Approach in Action
- Introduction to Transactional Analysis for Qualified Counsellors (TA101)
- A Polyvagal Perspective on the Pandemic Workshop
- Working with the Parts That Block Counselling Work
- Wheel of Life-Coaching Tools for Counsellors
- Motivational Interviewing
- Ecotherapy & Walk & Talk Counselling
- EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique - aka tapping)
Other Training & CPD
- Cultural Diversity
- Safeguarding Adults
- Safeguarding & Managing Risk Through Digital Media - Practitioners
- ASIST Training
- Suicide Exploration: Approaching Suicide from a Dialogic Position
- Demystifying Trauma: Understanding & Tools
- Working with Shame
- Working Creatively with Trauma
- Working with Bereavement & Complex Grief
Other Training & CPD
- Working Online
- Online Therapy for Those Affected by Disability & Illness
- Relational Depth in Counselling
- Working with Children in Their World
- Working with Risk: The Therapist's Dilemma
- Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences
- Infant Loss Training – by The Foundation for Infant Loss
- Working with Trauma That Has Become Stuck
- Therapy & Social Change
- This is not an exhaustive list – CPD is ongoing