Interview to Olivia Martinez
In the realm of Cure of Mind, the name Ekaterina Smirnova resonates with the rhythm of a unique dance. A dance of contact, as she calls it, that weaves together the worlds of the psychologist and the patient in an intricate, healing ballet. With over 15 years of experience, Smirnova, a co-founder of the psychological centre “The Way to Yourself,” is a seasoned psychologist who works within the Gestalt approach and psychodrama.
Born and raised in the cultural heart of Russia, St. Petersburg, Smirnova now resides in France, a country she affectionately refers to as “the country of my dreams.” Her move to France was not a whimsical decision but a purposeful journey towards a goal, a testament to her determination and resilience. “My move was the result of purposeful work to achieve a goal,” she shares, her voice carrying a hint of her Russian roots. This personal experience of adaptation and change inspired her to create a course for emigrants, which she currently teaches as a group therapy process.
Choosing to enter the helping profession of psychology was a conscious decision for Smirnova. In her eyes, there is nothing more beautiful and interesting than the meeting of two worlds, the ‘I’ and the ‘You.’ “Having chosen the basic education of a clinical psychologist, I paid all my attention to Gestalt therapy, as one of the most humanistic branches of modern therapy,” she explains.
For Smirnova, the therapeutic process is not a mere exchange of words and insights. It is an act of joint creativity, a dance of contact that heals and fosters growth. “This contact is healing, as it creates new experiences and allows both the client and the therapist to grow endlessly,” she says, her words painting a vivid picture of her unique approach to therapy.
Her areas of focus are as diverse as they are comprehensive. From difficulties in building personal relationships, self-realisation, and self-esteem to anxiety, recurring dreams, and sexuality, Smirnova’s expertise spans a wide spectrum of mental health issues. She also deals with relationship dynamics involving money, the balance of give and take, and finding a purpose in life. Her work extends to business queries and family and couples counselling, reflecting her versatility as a psychologist.
In the modern world, where dynamism is the norm, Smirnova’s clients are spread across the globe. Recognising the challenges of finding a suitable psychologist in various regions, she has dedicated significant time and attention to developing methods of online work with clients. “At the moment, we can interact from anywhere in the world, maintaining the effect of a full psychological session in both individual and group therapy,” she says, underlining her commitment to accessible mental health care.
As she talks about her work in body-oriented therapy, her eyes light up with passion. It’s clear that for Smirnova, psychology is not just a profession, but a calling. A calling that involves helping others navigate the intricate dance of life, guiding them towards self-love, self-esteem, and self-realisation.
Ekaterina Smirnova’s journey, from the cultural hub of St. Petersburg to the dreamy landscapes of France, mirrors her approach to therapy. It’s a journey of purposeful change, of adapting and growing, of dancing to the rhythm of life’s challenges and victories. As she continues to weave her dance of contact, one can’t help but feel inspired by her dedication, passion, and the healing power of her work.
In the world of mental health, Ekaterina Smirnova is not just a psychologist, but a dancer guiding her patients through the intricate ballet of life. With each step, each twirl, she helps them navigate their struggles, celebrate their victories, and embrace the healing power of contact.
