Our Team

PSYCHOLOGISTS

ELENA ARISTODEMOU, MA, LPMHC

Elena Aristodemou is the Founder and Lead Psychologist at Altius Mind Institute, a licensed Clinical Psychologist in Cyprus and a licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in New York City. In 2019, she established Altius Mind Institute with the goal of providing support to individuals struggling with mental health disorders and helping them achieve long-term recovery. Elena pursued her academic training in the United Kingdom, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Reading University. She then moved to the United States, where she completed a three-year Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology at the American International College. Early in her career, Elena received advanced training in a variety of psychological treatment modalities under the guidance of prominent leaders in the field. Her credentials include a four-year training program in Interpersonal Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy for Eating Disorders, Compulsions, and Addictions (EDCAS) at the William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis, and Psychology in New York City. Additionally, she completed intensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Personality Disorders at the Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Philadelphia, and training in Gestalt Psychotherapy for Treating Trauma using Chairwork and Parts Work with Dr. Scott Kellogg in New York City. Elena’s clinical expertise spans a wide range of areas, including addiction and substance abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, personality disorders, eating disorders, trauma, attachment issues, and self-esteem challenges. In addition to her work at Altius Mind Institute, she also provides psychotherapy and diagnostic assessments at the Thalassemia Center, Pedieos IVF Center, and Embryon Center in Nicosia and Limassol. Elena is deeply committed to her work, stating,

“I honor the courage it takes to ask for help and to look at your own wounds”.

Therapy language: English / Greek

ELENA GIAPPA, MS, CCTP, CSTIP

Elena Giappa is a licensed clinical psychologist in Cyprus, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), a Certified Couples and Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP) (Integrative Sex Therapy Institute) and a Certified Autism Spectrum Clinical Specialist (ASDCS). Specializing in both mood and personality disorders, Elena Giappa works with individuals, couples, groups and families offering evidence-based customized services aimed at effectively managing emotional challenges, mental disorders, and life transitions. Elena Giappa earned her Master’s in clinical psychology from the University of Nicosia and in combination to continuing education from recognized by the New York State Education Department’s (NYSED) State Board for Mental Health Practitioners providers, has extensive training in various assessment tools and approaches, including CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic, and Person-Centered therapy. She is passionate about helping clients develop self-awareness, resilience, and practical coping strategies tailored to their unique needs. Whether working with individuals facing major life transitions or those seeking deeper self-understanding, Elena Giappa is dedicated to fostering growth, healing, and lasting change. Her commitment is to make the therapeutic process and relationship a transformative experience. Some indicative areas of her expertise are: anxiety/panic attacks, depression/mood related issues, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, borderline personality disorder, childhood trauma, abuse, attachment, grief, boundary issues, insecurity/self esteem, intimacy and romantic relationship issues, family/child and couples issues, conflict, communication, and workplace stress.

“The therapeutic process aims to create a safe place built on respect and honesty, where your thoughts, feelings, and experiences can be processed, in order to further personal growth and development”.

Therapy language: Russian 🇷🇺 / English 🇺🇸 / Greek 🇬🇷

MARIOS ANTONIOU, MS

Marios Antoniou is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Cyprus. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Cyprus and later completed his Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology at the University of Nicosia. During his undergraduate studies, he conducted a literature review on how Theory of Mind relates to language disorders and language development. In his postgraduate program, he carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis on the relationship between trauma, callous-unemotional traits, and developmental pathways to psychopathy. Additionally, he received training in psychological assessments, including the WAIS-IV and WISC-V, and specialized in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Marios follows an integrative therapeutic approach, combining Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and the Person-Centered Approach. This flexibility allows him to tailor individualized treatment plans based on each client’s unique needs. His areas of expertise include trauma, anxiety, depression, addictions, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), personality disorders, grief, and low self-esteem/self-confidence. The primary goals of therapy are to establish a safe therapeutic relationship and explore the client’s symptoms in depth, fostering an environment for personal growth and self-discovery.

“I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become.” – Carl Jung

Therapy language: Greek 🇬🇷

ALEXANDRA CHARALAMBOUS, MS

Alexandra Charalambous is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in Cyprus. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in Greece. Upon relocating to Cyprus, she completed her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology at the European University of Cyprus. Her Master’s thesis focused on the relationship between personality traits and depressive symptoms that may indicate potential drug addiction. She has participated in a variety of training programs and study days, including “Special Education: Interdisciplinary Convergence Practices” (Distance Learning Program, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens), “Cluster B Personality Disorders: Antisocial, Borderline, Histrionic, and Narcissistic Disorder” (Distance Learning Program, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens) and the educational program “Healing the Trauma” by Dr. Gabor Maté. She is also qualified in the use and interpretation of the MMPI-2 multiphasic personality inventory tool. Additionally, she is trained and certified in the diagnosis and assessment of ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. She has experience working with the Association for the Prevention and Handling of Violence in the Family (SPAVO), where she provided support to victims of domestic violence. Currently, she offers individual therapy to adolescents and adults, couples therapy and parent counseling at the Altius Mind Institute. Alexandra addresses a wide range of psychopathologies, including personality disorders, psychosis, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use and addiction, eating disorders, panic attacks and mood swings. She also specializes in issues related to self-esteem, relationship conflicts and individuals coping with chronic illnesses. Furthermore, she has expertise in managing cases of assault and violence, including abusive relationships. Through the therapeutic relationship, built on trust, unconditional acceptance, non-judgment, and confidentiality, Alexandra helps clients process difficult emotions and negative thoughts. This connection fosters recognition, realization, and the expression of challenging emotions, ultimately guiding clients toward healthier coping mechanisms and alternative pathways for personal growth and healing.

“There is no light without shadow, and no psychic wholeness without imperfection”.

Therapy language: Greek

EVANTHIA SOTERIOU, MS, CCTP-II

Evanthia Soteriou is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Cyprus with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Leicester (UK) and a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from the European University of Cyprus. Her research focused on the psychosocial impacts of Endometriosis on mental health, and she has clinical experience in managing chronic illnesses, particularly in women with Endometriosis, addressing the psychological effects of such conditions. Evanthia is trained and certified in the assessment and diagnosis of ADHD across the lifespan, with experience providing ADHD interventions for adults. She helps clients improve executive functioning, manage symptoms, and achieve their personal and professional goals. In addition, she is trained and certified in the administration of the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition), providing specialized assessment for the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-II), Evanthia integrates trauma-informed care into her work, ensuring a compassionate, personalized approach for each client. She is dedicated to helping her clients navigate through their challenges and achieve personal growth and healing. She is committed to staying current with the latest research and techniques in the field of clinical psychology to ensure the highest quality of care for her clients. Her therapeutic approach is eclectic, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, thereby formulating personalized treatment plans for the optimal therapeutic results. Her approach in therapy is underlined by compassion and empathy, fundamental to establishing a safe and trusting therapeutic alliance. By prioritizing these values, she fosters an environment encouraging personal exploration.

“It’s important to hear what isn’t being said.”

Therapy language: English 🇺🇸 / Greek

FOTIS KOUKOS, MS

Fotis Koukos is a licensed Clinical Psychologist in Cyprus. He studied Sociology at the University of the Aegean and Psychology at the European University Cyprus, where he also completed a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology. He is currently training in Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Play Therapy, and Inner Relationship Focusing (IRF). He adopts an integrative therapeutic approach, incorporating Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, Existential, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques, tailoring them to each client’s needs. Fotis Koukos has collaborated with various psychiatric and therapeutic institutions, gaining valuable experience in supporting individuals with diverse mental health needs. He is currently working at Altius Mind Institute, providing therapy for children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. He specializes in treating anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, anger management, grief, emotional regulation difficulties, and relationship challenges. His approach is rooted in acceptance and respect, aiming to foster personal growth, emotional understanding, and self-care.

“No road ends until you start walking it”

Therapy language: English 🇺🇸 / Greek

CATHERINE KAKOULAKIS, MA

Catherine (Katerina) Kakoulakis is a Licensed Educational/School Psychologist in Cyprus and Greece, and she is also working towards becoming a certified Systemic/Family Psychotherapist (Systemic Institute of Cyprus) She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Nicosia, and her Master’s Degree in Educational/School and Applied Child Psychology from the University of Cyprus. She is trained in the use of internationally certified psychometric tools (WISC-V, WPPSI-III, Raven’s Matrices, ASEBA). Moreover, she received training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as well as in the assessment of gifted children. Currently, she works with children, adolescents and parents/families, using a variety of approaches (Person-Centered, Systemic, CBT, ACT, Existential, Solution-Focused, Positive Psychology). Some indicative areas of her training and expertise are: ADHD, learning and language difficulties, autism spectrum, play therapy, childhood trauma, anxiety/panic attacks, depression/mood-related issues, attachment, boundary/discipline issues, resilience/self-esteem, parent counseling, multiculturalism, adjustment in school, and effective communication.

“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” – Carl Rogers

Therapy language: English / Greek

ADMISSIONS TEAM

ANASTASIA GIORGOUDI, BS

Anastasia Giorgoudi works at Altius Mind Institute as an operational manager. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Psychology (with a minor in Behavioral Neuroscience) from Nova Southeastern University in the United States of America. She worked as a research assistant in the university psychology labs focusing on topics on marriage and divorce, parenting, cognition and learning. In her undergraduate internship, she worked with the population of children and adolescents in school settings in Florida, USA. Currently, she is enrolled in the Master of Science degree program in Clinical Psychology at the University of Nicosia in Cyprus. She is trained in the assessment and diagnosis of ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. She is also trained in the administration of the assessments WAIS-IV, WISC-V and Raven’s Educational.

“Let’s Invest in our Mental Health”.

Language: English / Greek

DIMITRA AIGINITI, BS

Dimitra Aiginiti works at Altius Mind Institute as an operational manager. She obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the European University of Cyprus. She completed her internship at the Cyprus Family Planning Association, where she was trained in the issues of sexual and reproductive health and individuals’ sexual rights with involvement in campaigns to prevent individuals’ rights. She is an active volunteer at the Hellenic Association of Positive Voice where she supports individuals suffering from HIV, as well as providing psychosocial support intervention for children from vulnerable social groups. She is currently enrolled in the Systemic Psychotherapy and Counseling program at the Center for Personal Development and Psychotherapy (KE.P.A.PSY.) in Cyprus.

“Small steps can lead to big progress in mental health”.

Language: English / Greek

DOROTHEOS CHARALAMBOUS, BS

Dorotheos Charalambous works at Altius Mind Institute as an operational assistant manager. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Leicester in the United Kingdom. During his degree, he studied modules like Neuroscience of Mental Health and Topics in Clinical Psychology, which developed his interest in neuropsychology. For his dissertation, he researched the effects of stimulating the left posterior parietal cortex on working memory using transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Dorotheos is interested in the connections between neuroscience and psychology, especially in neurorehabilitation and cognitive psychology. He plans to continue his studies in clinical neuropsychology to learn more about brain-behavior relationships and psychological assessments.

“Change your brain, change your life.” – Wayne Dyer

Language: English / Greek

EXTERNAL COLLABORATORS

BELINA LOUVROU, MBACP

Belina Louvrou is a Registered Psychologist- Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist MBACP Specialising in Play Therapy. She is also a Clinical Supervisor offering supervision to counsellors, psychotherapists, play therapists and other health care professionals. Belina received her education in Greece where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from University of Crete. Upon going to UK she obtained her master’s degree in Child, Adolescent & Family Mental Health from London Metropolitan University. She then, started her psychotherapy training in Play Therapy with Play Therapy UK (PTUK) in collaboration with Leeds Beckett University. Play Therapy is a psychotherapeutic method used to help children communicate their inner experiences. For children, aged 3-12 in particular, play is considered to be the most natural means of communication and expression. Since playing is central and vital to the child’s full development, it also has healing properties. Belina received additional training in Counselling Supervision Diploma Level 5 from Open College UK. During her training in UK she worked at mental health services, primary schools and children’s centres offering Play Therapy, Parenting Support to parents and carers, delivering training to professionals working with children and adolescents and offering workshops/seminars to parents and carers around child development, parenting skills and Play Therapy. In 2018 she moved to Cyprus, where she started her private practice offering Play Therapy, Parenting Support and Clinical Supervision. The idea of The Healing Stars was born from this dream and she is excited that she is able to use her knowledge and experience from UK, helping children and their families in Cyprus. The aim is to provide a holistic approach and the mission is to “Support children and families to have emotionally healthy lives”. In 2024, she also started a collaboration with Geroskipou Municipality in Paphos, delivering workshops in primary schools in Paphos of a preventative and/or proactive nature as the most effective interventions are those that take place early on. The workshops are for the children and the purpose is to promote children’s wellbeing, improve social skills and peer relationships and increase awareness of specific topics. Belina is a Registered Member of the Cypriot Association of Psychologists and of the BACP (the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) MBACP. She is on the BACP Register of Counsellors and Psychotherapists accredited by the Professional Standards Authority [PSA] for Health and Social Care, an independent body accountable to UK Government. The BACP Register of Counsellors & Psychotherapists is a public record of therapists who have met BACP's standards for registration. These standards cover training, supervision, continuing professional development and a commitment to BACP's Ethical Framework. As a Clinical Supervisor, she is a member of Play Therapy Greece PTGR and an Approved Supervisor with PTI/PTUK (Play Therapy International/Play Therapy Uk) and she is on the register of Supervisors with PTI/PTUK. Belina is also clinically supervised by an experienced and qualified supervisor and undergo annual Continuous Professional Development (CPD) training to deepen her knowledge and ensure the safety and effectiveness of her practice.

“You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation”. – Plato

Language: English / Greek

JULIE MICHAEL (INTERN)

Julie Michael is a BSc Psychology student at the University of Nicosia, specializing in Clinical and Counselling Psychology and she aims to obtain an MSc in Clinical Psychology. Julie actively volunteers with Cyprus Samaritans, providing emotional support to individuals in distress over the phone, email and in person. Additionally, she volunteers at multiple organizations like SPAVO, Hope for Children and Generation for Change CY.

“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf”

Language: English / Greek