Humanistic Existential Therapy
MSc. -Psych. Diego Garrido. English / Spanish speaking therapist
Clinical humanistic-existential psychologist
Individual and couples counselling
I am a Chilean psychologist, with a Master of Science in Drug Dependence from the University of Barcelona. My therapeutic approach is based on the authentic encounter between two people, where the most important thing is the quality of the relationship we build, free of judgement and focused on you and your well-being.
My practice is mainly guided by the humanistic-existential approach, which I have been developing since the early years of my career. Throughout this journey, I have integrated various techniques, such as experiencing, imaginaries and transpersonal activities, among others, to offer you a space for growth. I am also trained in Gestalt, which allows me to have additional therapeutic tools that I will make available to you in this process.
Why do people seek therapy with me?
Therapy is a transformative process, and many people take this step when they feel they can no longer cope with certain difficulties or when they want to improve their quality of life. Here are some of the most common reasons why people seek counselling:
- Anxiety, stress and emotional crises: If you feel that daily pressure, constant worries or lack of control over your emotions are affecting you, we can work together to reduce the impact of anxiety and improve your ability to manage stress.
- Low self-esteem and lack of self-confidence: If you have the feeling of not being enough, not knowing how to value yourself or constantly doubting yourself, in therapy we can strengthen your self-perception and help you heal those insecurities.
- Troubled relationships or family conflicts: Whether you are experiencing difficulties in your relationship with your partner, children, family or friends, therapy is a safe space where we can explore and improve communication and emotional connection.
- Depression, persistent sadness and unresolved grief: If you are going through a difficult time, feeling deep sadness or grieving, therapy can help you find the meaning and tools you need to move forward.
- Existential or purpose crises: If you feel lost, confused or directionless in life, we can explore your values, desires and goals to help you regain clarity and motivation.
- Problems with substance dependence and addictions: If you are facing difficulties with substance abuse, therapy will offer you the support you need to overcome addiction, strengthen your will and regain control over your life.
- Communication problems or intimacy difficulties in couples: If your relationship is experiencing communication difficulties, lack of intimacy or recurring conflicts, we can work to restore understanding and improve the emotional bond.
In couples therapy, I offer a space where both partners can express themselves freely, without fear of judgement. Many couples seek therapy when they face difficulties in communicating, feel that the relationship has lost its emotional connection, or are going through a major crisis. Through a humanistic-existential approach, we work together towards a mutual understanding, navigate conflicts with special focus on the bond, allowing each partner to be heard, respected and considered.
Couples therapy is also helpful in overcoming difficulties, managing important differences, growing together and learning tools to deal with the challenges that arise throughout life as a couple. Together we can find the way to a more satisfying relationship.
My professional experience began in Chile, where I worked at the Horwitz Psychiatric Hospital, treating patients with severe pathologies, from depression to schizophrenia. Later while working at the Psychotherapy Clinic of the University of Chile (CAPs) I practiced innovative approaches and was part of the team of systemic therapies (family and couples). During this time, I also opened my own private counselling space before moving to Barcelona. There I worked in a day hospital (Montgat) specialised in addictions, as well as in a therapeutic community in Montcada I Reixac, both within the Home Catalunya Project.
One of the aspects that have most interested me in my study and research are gender perspectives and gender violence, as well as marginalisation and stigma towards the LGBTIQ+ community, with special attention to sexualised substance use.
I recently got married and currently live in Germany, after having lived in Denmark, Sweden and Spain. The opportunity to experience different cultures has allowed me to broaden my perspectives and approaches, allowing me to connect with people of all backgrounds, beliefs, ages or interests.
I am here to accompany you in your process, regardless of your personal history. My commitment is to provide you with a safe space, free from judgement, where you can find the support you need to move towards wellbeing.
