Anca has a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology, Clinical Hypnosis and Short-Term Therapies and has gained a consistent experience mainly in the field of eating disorders, obesity-related issues and mood disorders (depression, anxiety). Anca has worked in clinical environments both in Malta and Romania with children, adolescents and adults presenting a wide variety of mental health issues. Her journey in the psychology domain started almost 15 years ago. Back then, Anca was already a graduate in Foreign Languages at the University of Bucharest, Romania, and working as a PR Manager in the private sector. In this role she has received extensive training in personal and interpersonal communication and has worked closely with people. This experience has lead her a step forward towards the psychology sphere. Therefore, soon after Anca enrolled herself in a bachelor’s degree program in psychology which she graduated successfully. Ever since, Anca has continuously developed herself, adding to her professional background different courses, workshops, seminars and over 400 hours of personal development activities plus a certification as a counsellor in personal development. Nowadays, Anca offers psychological support in English and Romanian using a holistic approach and various techniques adapted to an individual’s needs. Her clients’ feedback strengthened her belief in the tremendous transformational potential a word-based therapy has.

Silvia obtained her Master’s degree in Psychology from the University of Padua (Italy) in 2000. She has been practicing as a full-timer locally since 2012. Silvia is not only a Psychologist but also a Psychotherapist as she went on to specialise in Expressive Psychotherapy from the Institute of Expressive Psychotherapy (IPSE) in Bologna. She is fluent in Italian, her first language and also offers intervention in English and Italian. As a Psychotherapist, she gained precious experience working with a variety of clients: children, adolescents and adults, diagnosed as suffering from depression, anxiety or personality disorders or simply encountering a challenging period in their lives. She also cooperated with other organizations such as Villa Margherita in Vicenza, Italy, a private treatment facility for clients with psychotic and anxiety and personality disorders. For three years, she also led groups for physical-psychological relaxation using specific techniques in two wards at the hospital in Vicenza: the Diagnosis and Treatment of Psychiatric Disorders Unit (assisting patients with acute mental health conditions), and the Centre for Eating Disorders, where she supported teenagers suffering from bulimia and anorexia. Furthermore, for five years, Silvia enjoyed working on prevention in a primary school setting, leading weekly art therapy sessions for children. Silvia is a very reliable, good tempered, creative and hardworking person, with a genuine interest in people and a call to help them in a kind and respectful way. Therefore, when she discovered Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), she felt it was an approach that perfectly matched her personality and values. What Silvia loves about this technique is the fact that it is a very respectful and powerful method, which allows her to help others not only in emergency situations but also to assist and promote personal development and wellbeing. EFT helps clients feel that they are taken care of holistically, with a 360-degree interest in the person, and not just in their symptoms. It enhances their self-knowledge, empowers them to activate the change they would like to see in their lives, and to take control of their own wellbeing by applying the EFT technique themselves in times of need.

Rebecca graduated from the University of Malta in 2006 with a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) and went on to pursue a Master’s Degree in Neuropsychology from the University of Maastricht, The Netherlands, which she obtained in 2009. In 2016 she graduated from a PhD in Applied Cognitive Neuroscience from the University of Padova, Italy. She has 14 years of experience working with both adults and children with a variety of Neurological and Neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism and ADHD as well as brain injuries and other Neurological and Neuropsychiatric conditions, including anxiety and depression. Owing also to her vast experience in International Sports as Malta’s Long Jump National Record holder, Rebecca has a wealth of experience in Sports Psychology, working with athletes and individuals alike seeking to pursue a more physically active lifestyle and/or working towards Psychological and Physical recovery following injury. In 2020 and 2021, she managed the Psychology Department at the leading Rehabilitation Hospital in Malta, and was one of the Managers and Assessment Lead of a local multidisciplinary team in the private sector working with both adults and children in the field of Mental Health. She has also been a visiting lecturer with the Department of Psychology and the Department of Cognitive Neuroscience at the University of Malta since 2010. Rebecca is an asset to the Polaris team as she brings a rich and varied provision of services to our valued clients. As a Psychologist she works closely with both adults and children, integrating family members and/or significant others in the intervention process. She adopts a multidisciplinary approach and tailors intervention plans according to the presenting needs. Rebecca mainly uses a Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) approach towards achieving mental health and overall wellbeing. She specializes in cognitive and behavioural assessments, lifestyle changes, Motivational Interviewing, Mental Coaching as well as Cognitive Rehabilitation, whilst offering Psychoeducation and Psychological Support. Rebecca is a mother of two young children, and together with her family, is currently based in San Marino (Italy). She offers online therapy and consultation sessions for Polaris. She also comes to her homeland every eight (8) weeks on average, to provides face to face consultations at the Factory.

Christine is a Reiki practitioner, ITEC-certified massage therapist, aromatherapy practitioner, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy practitioner and meditation facilitator for adults and children. Originally from France, she came to Malta in 2009 when she started her studies as an Holistic Therapist, being highly passionate about alternative therapies as an additional tool that people can use on their healing journey. She enjoys helping people and supporting their physical, spiritual, mental and emotional well-being. Christine is very interested in the mind, body and spirit connection and how an imbalance of any can affect the other. She is also interested in the impact food choices can have in assisting the body and mind with the healing process. She enjoys helping individuals who are highly sensitive to understand, accept and nurture their sensitivity and to regard their heightened sensory perception as a gift. She became a Reiki practitioner in 2010 which opened the path to study other various alternative modalities such as holistic massage, shiatsu, aromatherapy, crystal therapy, homeopathy, basic TCM, herbalism, nutrition, EFT, mindfulness and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for clients to benefit from a richer holistic approach. One of her aspirations is to help children learn about the brain, thoughts, emotions, beliefs, energy and the link to the physical body through mindfulness activities so they can have many tools in their toolbox from a young age to know exactly what to do to feel their best in an increasingly stressful world. She also put together a mindfulness activity booklet and journal for children to help them have empowering thoughts and help them regulate their emotions when they feel wobbly. She is very passionate about essential oils and creates energetic room sprays whose aromas can have a beneficial effect on emotions while creating a positive energetic vibration to any given space. She enjoys spending time in Nature which she finds nurturing and helpful to regain energy and relieve everyday stresses.

From a young age, Claire has been drawn to the world of the healing professions. Her interests in human interactions lead her to study psychology at the University of Malta, after which she acquired her Masters degree in Transcultural Counselling. This degree opened up her horizons to the diverse forms of healing modalities from different cultures all over the world, and this in turn has sparked her interest in learning more about Complementary Therapies. Claire achieved a VTCT Diploma in Complementary Therapies which includes basic practise in aromatherapy, body massage and reflexology, further gaining another 2 VTCT Diplomas in Advanced Aromatherapy and Advanced Reflexology. Equipped with her psychology background and complementary therapy training, Claire has an in depth understanding of how the mind and body relate to each other and will be able to assist you at Polaris by creating a personalised treatment plan to enhance your well-being journey, including tailor-made aromatherapy products and/or reflexology/massage treatments. Claire recently has also become more interested in neurodiversity, as she herself feels very drawn to neurodivergent people and notices that neurodivergent people also seem to feel very at ease around her too. This led her to obtaining an Award in the ADHD Adult Coaching Approach. She is currently offering ADHD coaching sessions at Polaris, at a discounted rate, not only to people who are diagnosed with ADHD, but to any adult who identifies as having symptoms or issues similar to those experienced by people who have ADHD. These sessions will be part of her training leading up to further studies and qualifications.

Christina’s personal and professional journey encompasses her vast interest in the promotion of human health from all facets of life - the physical, psychological, and spiritual, which is why she is a perfect fit with the Polaris holistic approach. Her work as a Physiotherapist gives her precious insight into the body’s mechanisms of dealing with ailments and pain. Adding to that, she has always felt drawn towards psycho-spirituality and its essence in our wellbeing. Throughout the years, this yearning propelled her to undergo a thorough & lifelong journey of self-inquiry, mindful awareness, and personal healing. Throughout the years working as a physiotherapist, she has witnessed how unresolved emotional wounds can manifest as physical pain, especially chronic pain, and has developed a deep appreciation towards bridging the physical and the emotional states in order to regain a holistically healthy mind, body, and overall lifestyle. She harbours a special interest in early brain development, neurobiology of trauma, chronic pain, parenting, AD(H)D and how a psycho-somatic approach to therapy can help release blockages and bring forth change, healing, and an enhanced wellbeing. She is a registered Physiotherapist (UoM), Certified ZenYoga instructor (UK), Certified Life & Parenting Coach (US), holds a 3rd Dan in Shotokan Karate (JKA-Japan) and currently undergoing training as a Mindfulness Teacher (CA) Becoming a mother has propelled her to engage in deep self-reflection and personal growth. She embodies healing the Self to the best of her ability, and her mission is to guide whoever seeks assistance in the healing journey, on a physical, psychological, and spiritual level. Her background in the physical field of the human body, both as a Physiotherapist and a Yoga teacher, together with her passionate practices, interests, and studies in the psychology & spirituality of being human, culminates in a highly integrated approach to the coaching and therapy she delivers. Through a dynamic dialogue, compassionate exploration and mindful awareness, her ultimate mission is to guide clients into gaining insight and understanding of their current patterns, shifting from coping mechanisms to a thriving, authentic and purposeful living. Over the years, she has come to the realization that Life’s sole purpose is the journey of remembering the self as Whole. She enjoys anything that nourishes the soul, namely being in nature, dancing, singing, cooking, reading, and travelling.

Mike Orland is currently one of the Family Therapists at Polaris. Graduated at the University of Malta with a BA (Hons) Social Work in 2005, Mike worked in various fields with his main contributions being in addictions and the migration sector. With a growing interest in relationship dynamics, Mike went on to complete a Masters degree in Family Therapy and Systemic Practice in 2016 at the University of Malta, As a warranted psychotherapist, he has since been practising couples and family therapy thus gaining valuable experience in the field.

Kristen holds a Doctorate in Counselling Psychology from Glasgow Caledonian University, Masters in Child and Adolescent Mental Health from University of South Wales, Post-Grad Dip in Psychology from Manchester Metropolitan University and BA(Hons) in Social Work from University of Malta. As a Psychologist and EMDR practitioner Kristen specialises in trauma therapy and works with individuals/families suffering from stress, anxiety, depression, OCD, abuse, marital issues, low self-esteem and any other psychological related challenges. Kristen is trained in various therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Person Centred Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Couples Therapy and other approaches. As a Psychologist, Kristen provides a personalised therapeutic experience within a pluralistic epistemology according to the client’s individual needs, within a safe and confidential space. Kristen worked with NHS Glasgow Occupational Health Department. His role was to assist NHS staff to support and promote their holistic health and wellbeing. Kristen also worked with other specialised services related trauma such as child sexual abuse support services. Moreover, he also occupied various roles in Malta as part of various government and NGO’s, both in clinical and managerial positions. As part of his role as a scientific practitioner, Kristen is also interested in research about trauma, attachment, foster care, and the impact of the therapeutic relationship on the therapeutic outcome. Currently, Kristen also occupies the role of a Senior Lecturer II in a tertiary institution where he currently lectures psychology modules as part of childcare, inclusive education, and social care courses. He is a welcome addition to the Polaris team of experts, where he complements the integrated care interdisciplinary team approach with his seasoned skill-base and warm disposition.

Francesca obtained her Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) degree from the University of Malta in 2018, after which she obtained the Master of Science (MSc) in Applied Neuropsychology degree with distinction from the University of Bristol, United Kingdom in 2020. With the aim of obtaining her warrant in neuropsychology, Fran has a great interest in cognitive rehabilitation especially in regards to working with survivors of strokes, traumatic brain injuries, as well as, neurodegenerative diseases. Fran will be collaborating with the interdisciplinary team at Polaris, in the building a neuro-department aimed at helping individuals with various neurological and cognitive disorders - to restore cognitive function through evidence-based interventions, and help clients reach their full potential and live lives full of success and purpose.

Sarah graduated with a Bachelor of Psychology (Hons) and a Master of Psychology in Counselling Psychology (Hons) from the University of Malta. Taking a person-centred approach, Sarah aims to help the people she works with reach their full potential. Through empathy and ensuring a safe therapeutic space, Sarah aims to offer the people she meets the chance to speak and open up without the fear of judgement. Sarah values the connection that is built within the therapeutic space. Through her previous experience Sarah has worked with people with several mental health difficulties, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and borderline personality disorder. She has experienced these first hand through her work in the community as a Mental Health Recovery Officer and has been lucky enough to meet with people from different backgrounds. Apart from this, Sarah has also worked with people who have struggled with their sexuality, and people who have learning difficulties. Through her studies, Sarah grew her interest in Perinatal Wellbeing, with her Masters dissertation focusing on the Impact of COVID-19 on the First-Time Fathers’ Journey Towards Fatherhood. She is also trained in Mental Health First Aid. Sarah believes that being entrusted to work therapeutically with a person is a privilege, therefore she aims to prioritise the clients’ needs in the therapeutic space. She joins Polaris in these values and vision for treating each person with the dignity, respect and importance they deserve.

Vibhuti has worked for more than a decade with thousands of liver and kidney patients who have needed transplantation for survival and better quality of life. She has also worked with living donors who volunteer to donate a part of their livers or a kidney to save the lives of loved ones. She is familiar with the word stress and likes to motivate her clients to learn methods of overcoming the same for a better quality of life. She is a member of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and a member of the UPCA. Besides this, Vibhuti has postgraduate degrees in Public Health, Healthcare Informatics and Business Administration. At the community level, she has volunteered to develop awareness programs for hepatitis B vaccination, Hepatitis C screening, Alcoholism, Cancer and disabilities from conditions such as multiple sclerosis. She understands stigma and helps her clients learn to help and protect themselves. She has volunteered with several NGOs in India. She has offered her time with proposal writing for funding, raising awareness and developing structured programs that can be shared with others in the development centres for implementation. She has graduated with a Bachelors (Hons) degree in English Literature from Delhi University followed by a BSc (Hons) in Psychology from University of Derbyshire. Her Master’s degree in Psychology is from the prestigious King’s College London at the famous IOPPN (Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry and Neurosciences). To her, her mantra is to “live and let live.” She is friendly, helpful , approachable, and knowledgeable in her field but is never shy about taking advice from others where needed. On a relaxing note, she enjoys cooking, gardening, playing the piano, travelling and visiting places of historical importance. She also finds time to engage with other women’s groups and has been a Rotarian for more than 16 years.