Biography

I am Marcela Soto, a licensed Psychologist (License No. 5872).
My journey in the field of psychology began from my need to deeply understand human beings, their relationships, and the emotions that shape them.

Through my professional experience and continuous education, I have developed specialization and a strong interest in grief and loss management, migration and adaptation to new environments, anxiety management, as well as career guidance for children and adolescents.

In the past, I have been actively involved in volunteer work, providing psychological support to individuals—especially children—in need after natural disasters, war, and other challenging situations, such as in the unforgettable case of Nepal. As part of my internship and volunteer work, I collaborated with SOS Children’s Villages (Vari), EPAPSY, and Caritas Athens, offering psychological support to vulnerable groups. At the same time, I participated in the forensic psychiatry outpatient clinic of Attikon University General Hospital, contributing to the administration of psychometric tools, history taking, and report writing.

My sessions are conducted online, making psychological support more accessible, flexible, and available to those who need it, regardless of location or time. My goal is to provide a space of acceptance, respect, and meaningful connection, where each individual can take care of themselves at their own pace.

I chose to focus on counseling for adolescents through the career orientation test, because I observe that today many young people choose their studies or career paths based on the expectations of parents, friends, or others—rather than their own desires. As a result, they often follow the wrong path and feel unfulfilled. However, a profession is something you carry throughout your life, so it is essential to be sure that it suits you and brings you satisfaction. It is important to understand your skills and also recognize what you need to develop in order to achieve your goals.

Grief is something I chose—or perhaps it chose me. As a psychologist, but also as a mother who has lost her child, I believe I can offer deeper support. Although it is a difficult and dark path that stays with us forever, we can learn to bring some light into it. We are energy and love. It is incredibly hard, but we must keep going—for those who have passed, whether too soon or in their time.

Regarding migration-related grief, I deeply identify with it. I come from Chile and have been living in Greece for the past 23 years. I know what it means to leave everything behind—to miss everything, yet have to start over every day and move forward, because it was your choice or perhaps your only option. Without guidance or support, it is not easy. I only wish I had access to such support back then. Now, however, I can be there for those who need it.

With the technical skills I possess, I am able to understand experiences and emotions, manage demanding situations with calmness and adaptability, and collaborate effectively with adults, children, parents, and professionals—always ensuring confidentiality and respect for privacy. I also have the ability to handle crises and build genuine connections, with communication available in three languages.