Ioana

Ioana Ababei, MSc

Psychologist

I offer a compassionate space where healing can unfold at your own pace. Let’s schedule a free online introduction call to see how I can best support you.

About Me

My path into psychology grew from a deep interest in human potential and well-being. Alongside my own journey of self-discovery, I have developed a strong commitment to supporting others in their own exploration and growth. I am an expat myself, with over 8 years of experience navigating life in a different country and cultural contexts. Over the past decade, I have lived in 5 cities and 9 homes across 2 countries. Both my personal and professional life are rooted in this multicultural reality: I am in a multicultural marriage, my family is spread across 5 countries, my friendships span the world, and I have experience in international work environments. These experiences have challenged me to reflect on questions of identity, belonging, and adaptation. I have studied well-being from a holistic perspective, exploring the physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions of human experience. My background includes psychology, physiotherapy, and adult learning & development.

Approach

The integrative approach is recommended for those who prefer a flexible approach that combines different therapies to meet their unique needs. From an integrative perspective, the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of the healing process. I see therapy as a collaborative partnership where we build trust, explore challenges together, and create a safe space for both vulnerability and strength. The therapeutic relationship becomes not only a place of support but also a space where new ways of relating can gently unfold. The integrative approach also means that I draw on several schools of therapy and adapt them to your unique needs. By blending these perspectives, integrative therapy offers flexibility: sometimes the focus may be on healing past wounds, sometimes on practical strategies, and other times on deepening self-awareness. The goal is always to support both healing and authenticity, helping you move toward balance and well-being. From cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), I use evidence-based strategies that connect thoughts, feelings, and behaviours to help you shift unhelpful patterns and build practical coping skills. From the humanistic perspective, I bring empathy, acceptance, and a focus on authenticity, creating a safe and non-judgmental space for self-growth. The existential approach helps us explore deeper questions of identity, meaning, and life transitions. I also integrate body-oriented approaches, which recognise the mind–body connection and support healing by bringing awareness to emotions stored in the body.
Contact Ioana

Ask a quick question or arrange a time to meet.

Basic Information

In-person & Online

Services

Services Offered:

  • Relationship Counselling

    Counselling for couples or partners focused on improving communication, rebuilding trust, and strengthening emotional connection.

  • Counselling

    A form of talk therapy providing a safe, confidential space to explore feelings, thoughts, and behaviours with a trained professional.

    Learn more about Counselling

Works With:

  • Adults
  • Individuals

Area of Expertise

Scope of Practice:

  • 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
  • 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
  • Anxiety

    Persistent worry, nervousness, or fear that is disproportionate to the situation and interferes with daily functioning.

    Learn more about Anxiety
  • Life Transitions

    Major life changes, such as relocation, retirement, parenthood, or career shifts, that disrupt routine and require psychological adjustment.

    Learn more about Life Transitions
  • Depression

    A mood disorder marked by persistent low mood, loss of interest or pleasure, and changes in energy, sleep, or appetite that impair daily functioning.

    Learn more about Depression

Professional Title:

  • Psychologist

    A professional trained to assess and treat mental health conditions using evidence-based psychological methods.

Credentials

Qualifications

MSc Clinical Psychology

University of Twente

Year: 2025

Bachelor of Science (BSc)

University of Twente

Year: 2021

Service Areas

Ioana Ababei Psychologist

In-person & Online

Kralingen-Crooswijk

Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland

Netherlands

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Kralingen-Crooswijk, Rotterdam, Netherlands