Interview to Olivia Martinez
I’m excited to bring you a conversation with a remarkable individual who has dedicated her life to understanding the human mind and helping people navigate the complex world of emotions and behaviors.
Ms. Eleni Theofili, a clinical psychologist based in Athens, Greece, has a rich academic background, with degrees from Panteion University of Social & Political Sciences and Leiden University. She has extensive training in Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy and Clinical Psychology and has received further training in various specialized areas of psychology.
In this interview, Ms. Theofili shares her journey into psychology and her motivations for helping individuals overcome mental health challenges. She shares a personal example that reflects her passion for her work and provides insight into the profound impact a psychologist can have on a patient’s life.
Join me as we delve into this enlightening conversation with Ms. Eleni Theofili, exploring the world of psychology, the importance of mental health, and the rewarding journey of helping others find their path to healing and self-discovery.
Good day, Ms. Eleni Theofili. Could you tell us a bit about your background, your education, and your journey to becoming a psychologist?
Theofili: I was born and raised in Athens, Greece, a city that has always been close to my heart. I have been fascinated by the human mind for as long as I can remember, and this fascination led me to the Department of Psychology of Panteion University of Social & Political Sciences in Athens. There, I dove into the study of human behavior, emotions, and thought processes.
I then moved to the Netherlands to continue my studies, earning a degree in Clinical Psychology with Cum Laude distinction from Leiden University. During this period, I received further training in Clinical Psychopathology, Child Tracing, School Psychology, and the application of the psychometric tool MMPI-2. My academic achievements were recognized with the honorary scholarship for academic achievement from the Society for Social Contribution of Greek Shipbuilding “SYN-ENOSIS”.
After completing my Master’s degree, I felt a deep urge to further my understanding and skills, which led me to pursue training in Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy at the Institute for Behavioural Research & Therapy, also in Athens.
That’s quite an impressive academic journey. Moving onto your professional life, what motivated you to pursue a career as a psychologist?
Theofili: Thank you. My motivation to become a psychologist has been multifaceted. Firstly, I’ve always been deeply curious about how the human mind works and why people think, feel, and behave the way they do. I found myself genuinely interested in unraveling the complexities of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. As I delved deeper into my academic and professional career, the opportunity to help individuals in overcoming obstacles, healing traumas, and attaining a stronger sense of overall well-being became a captivating prospect.
The idea of guiding individuals towards personal growth, self-discovery, and an improved quality of life has always been a strong motivator for me. Furthermore, I’ve been driven by a desire to challenge societal stigmas surrounding mental health. I’ve seen the impact of misconceptions about mental health within our society, and how these misconceptions often lead to a hesitancy among individuals to seek help. This has compelled me to advocate for greater awareness around mental health, in the hope of contributing to a more empathetic and understanding society.
On a more personal note, could you share an example from your professional experience that reflects your passion for helping patients?
Theofili: Absolutely. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing profound changes in the lives of my patients. One particular case that resonated deeply with me was a young adult struggling with severe anxiety and panic attacks. This person had been dealing with these challenges for years, feeling trapped and unable to fully engage in life.
Together, we embarked on a therapeutic journey using cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques, mindfulness exercises, and a strong focus on self-compassion. To see his thoughts and behaviors change gradually was truly amazing. We worked tirelessly to identify and rebuild negative thought patterns, develop coping strategies, and increase his self-esteem.
Over time, this person began to regain control of his life. The panic attacks subsided, and he resumed activities that he had previously avoided. It was incredibly rewarding to witness his cultivated resilience, growth, and newfound hope. Seeing someone overcome their challenges and go on to live a fulfilling and happy life is a powerful reminder of why I love being a psychologist. It’s about empowering individuals to find their strengths, resilience, and healing in themselves. It’s about fostering growth, facilitating change, and being a beacon of support on their journey to mental health.
That’s a powerful and inspiring story. Lastly, Dr. Theofili, considering your vast experience in the field, what advice would you give to someone who is currently struggling with their mental health?
Theofili: I would first like to say that it’s okay to not be okay. Mental health struggles are a part of the human experience, and you’re not alone in this. It’s important to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you’re struggling, reach out to a mental health professional. They can provide you with the tools and strategies you need to manage your mental health effectively.
Also, try to practice self-care as much as possible. This can include eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, ensuring you get enough sleep, and taking time each day to relax and do things you enjoy. Self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity.
Lastly, try to be patient with yourself. Healing takes time, and it’s okay to move at your own pace. Remember, it’s not about how quickly you can get back on your feet, but rather about taking the necessary steps to ensure a sustainable and long-lasting recovery.
That’s truly insightful advice, Dr. Theofili. Thank you for your time today and for the important work you do.
Theofili: It’s been my pleasure. I hope our conversation can help those who are struggling to realize they’re not alone and that help is available. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and it’s crucial we treat it with the same care and attention.