The Power Of Mindfulness: Awareness As The First Step In Therapy
When life feels overwhelming, change rarely begins with answers; it begins with awareness. Mindfulness creates a quiet pause in the noise, helping you notice what’s happe...
Allan C. P. Belem
Registered Psychologist
verified by TherapyRoute
“As a Registered EuroPsy Psychologist with over 15 years of experience across six countries, I specialize in supporting individuals, couples, and teams navigating the complexities of transition and interpersonal conflict. Having lived and worked in the England, Ireland, USA, New Zealand, Brazil, and now Germany, I deeply understand the psychological weight of 'finding home' and the unique pressures of multicultural relationships. My approach is active and integrative, bridging evidence-based practices from Clinical Psychology, I combine Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) with a foundation in Mindfulness and Buddhist Psychology. Whether we are deconstructing repetitive loops in a relationship or building individual resilience, my goal is to foster the autonomy you need to move forward with confidence. I offer a dedicated space (online or in-person in Altona) to transform 'feeling stuck' into a sense of agency—because effective therapy is designed to empower you to eventually become your own best guide.”
About Me
I became a therapist because I’ve always been amazed by human resilience and creativity. I’m especially interested in the kind of courage it takes to build a life in unfamiliar territory. Having lived in six different countries, I have a profound respect for what it really feels like to start over again and again.
Behind my professional credentials, I am a father of two and a partner in a multicultural marriage. I know the unique pressures of trying to raise a family far from home without the safety net of a "village" nearby. I understand the communication gaps that happen when partners come from entirely different cultural backgrounds, and the deep drain of constantly having to adapt to new environments.
I bring this shared humanity into every session. My aim is to be compassionate and present with you. We won't just talk about the theory of your stress. Instead, we will look practically at how you can navigate your current reality, build new support systems, and find a genuine sense of connection in the middle of all that transition.
Approach
My approach is active, systemic, and deeply relational. I don't just look at symptoms; I look at the internal and external systems you live within. We typically focus on three main pillars:
* Internal Harmony (IFS): We work with Internal Family Systems to identify the different "parts" of you, the ones that feel overwhelmed, the ones that protect you, and the ones that hold old wounds. This helps move you from internal conflict to a state of "Self-leadership" and clarity.
* Relational Connection (EFT & NVC): Using Emotionally Focused Therapy and Non-Violent Communication, we deconstruct the repetitive loops in your relationships. We look at the underlying needs and attachment patterns, transforming "conflict" into a pathway for deeper intimacy and understanding.
* Grounded Awareness (Mindfulness & Holistic): Drawing from Buddhist Psychology and Holistic approaches, we integrate mindfulness to regulate your nervous system. This is especially vital for navigating the "deep drain" of life transitions, helping you stay present even when things feel chaotic.
Services
Individual Sessions (50 Minutes)
In our individual sessions, we go beyond simple conversation to create tangible shifts in your life. Rather than just analyzing the past, we work collaboratively to identify the root causes of your stress while focusing on practical steps for the present. By exploring how your thoughts, emotions, and nervous system interact, I will equip you with the strategies you need to break old cycles, regulate your emotions, and restore a deep sense of agency and balance.
Couples & Family Sessions (80 Minutes)
In these extended sessions, we view the relationship itself as the client, whether between partners, adult siblings, or parents and children. Relationships often get stuck in painful loops or outdated roles that prevent true connection. Drawing on attachment-based frameworks, we move beyond surface-level arguments to address the deeper patterns driving your conflict. Together, we will work to interrupt defensiveness, navigate difficult conversations with safety, and shift from reactive dynamics to a respectful connection where both people feel heard and valued.
Services Offered:
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Relationship Counseling
Counselling for couples or partners focused on improving communication, rebuilding trust, and strengthening emotional connection.
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Mediation
A structured process in which a neutral third party helps people in conflict reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
Learn more about Mediation - •
Mindfulness
The practice of paying deliberate attention to the present moment without judgement, used to reduce stress and increase awareness of automatic reactions.
Learn more about Mindfulness - •
Conflict Management
Structured approaches to resolving disputes and improving communication between people in conflict, whether in relationships, families, or workplaces.
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Group Therapy
Therapy conducted with a small group of people who share similar concerns, using peer interaction and diverse perspectives as part of the healing process.
Learn more about Group Therapy - •
Integrative Psychotherapy
An approach that draws on multiple therapeutic models, tailored to the individual, rather than following a single method.
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Family Therapy
A form of therapy that works with family members together to improve communication, resolve conflict, and strengthen relationships within the family system.
Learn more about Family Therapy
Works With:
- •Adults
- •Couples
- •Groups
- •Individuals
- •Families
- •Organisations
Area of Expertise
Scope of Practice:
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Anxiety
Persistent worry, nervousness, or fear that is disproportionate to the situation and interferes with daily functioning.
Learn more about Anxiety - •
Mood Disorder
A category of mental health conditions, including depression and bipolar disorder, in which a person's emotional state is significantly and persistently disrupted.
Learn more about Mood Disorder - •
Relocation / Expat
The psychological challenges of moving to a new country or city, including loneliness, culture shock, identity shifts, and loss of social support.
Learn more about Relocation / Expat - •
Relationship Issues
Difficulties in romantic relationships, including communication problems, trust breakdowns, conflict patterns, or uncertainty about the relationship's future.
Learn more about Relationship Issues - •
Relationship Counseling
Counselling for couples or partners focused on improving communication, rebuilding trust, and strengthening emotional connection.
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Stress / Burnout
The body and mind's response to prolonged or excessive demands. When sustained, it can lead to emotional exhaustion, detachment, and reduced functioning (burnout).
Learn more about Stress / Burnout - •
Cross-Cultural
The psychological challenges of living between two or more cultures, including identity conflicts, acculturation stress, and difficulties with belonging.
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Intimacy Issues
Difficulties with emotional or physical closeness in relationships, including fear of vulnerability, avoidance of connection, or sexual concerns.
Learn more about Intimacy Issues - •
Personal Development
The ongoing process of self-awareness, self-improvement, and reaching one's potential, pursued not because something is wrong but to live more fully.
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Spiritual Exploration
Questions of meaning, purpose, faith, and spiritual experience as they relate to psychological well-being and personal identity.
Professional Title:
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Registered Psychologist
A psychologist registered with a regulatory body to provide psychological assessment and treatment.
Qualifications
Europsy Certification
EFPA
Year: 2024
Registrations
Conselho Regional de Psicologia do Rio de Janeiro
Psychologist
Ordem dos Psicólogos Portugueses (OPP)
Psychology
Registered EuroPsy Psychologist
Psychology
