People Forward
Michael Batakis,
Psychologist BSc/MSc/Dip

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a structured form of psychotherapy that is based on connecting thoughts, feelings, and actions. It doesn't just stay in theory; it focuses on learning skills that you can apply.Regarding panic attacks, CBT helps you understand that physical symptoms (rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath) are not dangerous, weakening the fear of the fear itself. Through specific techniques, you "teach" your brain not to activate the survival mechanism (fight or flight) without a real reason.

Yes, there is a large number of mental health professionals in Athens who specialise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). However, choosing the right therapist requires care: CBT is a structured, evidence-based approach, and the professional should hold — beyond a Licence to Practise Psychology — formal training with supervised clinical casework at a recognised institution, such as IBRT (Institute of Behavior Research and Therapy / Ινστιτούτο Έρευνας και Θεραπείας της Συμπεριφοράς – ΙΕΘΣ), the Society of Cognitive Behavioural Studies (Εταιρεία Γνωσιακών Συμπεριφοριστικών Σπουδών – ΕΓΣΣ), the Hellenic Society for Behavioural Research (Ελληνική Εταιρεία Έρευνας της Συμπεριφοράς – ΕΕΕΣ), or GACBP (Greek Association for Cognitive and Behavioral Psychotherapies / Ελληνική Εταιρεία Γνωστικής Συμπεριφορικής Ψυχοθεραπείας – ΕΕΓΣΨ).Session fees in AthensIn Athens, fees for in-person or online psychotherapy sessions typically range between €20 and €120 per session. Because access to mental health care is a right for everyone, if your current financial situation does not allow for private expenses, there are worthwhile alternatives:Free services: You can contact the Community Mental Health Centres (KPY) in your area, the Psychiatric Departments of public hospitals, and the municipal Mental Health Services (Community Centres), which offer short-term support free of charge.Low-cost services: Many university-affiliated institutes and CBT training organisations (such as the Institute of Behavior Research and Therapy) offer very low-cost sessions, delivered by advanced trainee psychotherapists under the close supervision of experienced clinical trainers.In Athens: The Adult Therapy Unit of IBRT offers sessions exclusively in the Cognitive-Behavioural approach, delivered by postgraduate trainee psychotherapists under close supervision by experienced clinicians, at a very low cost (indicatively €20–€25 per session). Similarly, the Alumni Network of the Society of Cognitive Behavioural Studies maintains a directory of certified therapists offering low-cost services.In Thessaloniki: GACBP (9 Fragkini St., Thessaloniki) is a leading CBT training institution in Northern Greece and can refer you to advanced trainee psychotherapists who take on cases under supervision at low cost (indicatively €20–€25 per session).

Short duration: Most people notice improvement within the first 4-8 sessions, while a complete cycle usually lasts 5-20 sessions of 45–50 minutes per week.Focus on the "Now": Because it focuses on resolving current symptoms and not just analyzing the past, change comes more immediately and practically.Speed ​​depends on your motivation and commitment to the "exercises" outside of the session, which act as an accelerator to become your own therapist faster.

Online psychotherapy is not just a stopgap solution, but a bridge of care that brings support to your own, safe space. At peopleforward.gr , we believe that the therapeutic relationship is not limited by walls.The benefits are substantial: you save valuable travel time in Athens, you feel the comfort of your own personal space and you maintain the continuity of your therapy wherever you are — whether in the countryside or abroad (London, Dubai, Paris). Research data documents that CBT via the Internet has results equal to in-person sessions, allowing us to work together on the issues that bother you, with the same proximity as if we were in my office, in the center of Athens (Kolonaki).

Finding the right therapist is a deeply personal journey — one that requires trust and a sense of safety. At PeopleForward, we believe the best choice is the one that combines scientific rigor with human empathy. If you are looking for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) sessions in Athens, we offer a safe space where our 20 years of experience and our collaboration with Ison Psychometrica become the tools for your personal wellbeingAccording to the most recent data from doctoranytime (profile: PeopleForward – Michalis Batakis BSc/MSc/Dip):Total reviews: 95+Average rating: 9.9/10This reflects exceptionally high client satisfaction, with very few — if any — low ratings.Reviews remain overwhelmingly positive and consistently highlight similar themes:Structured, practical approach → Many clients mention clear goals, concrete steps, cognitive techniques, and visible results within just a few sessions.Clear, simple explanations → Builds trust, especially by explaining why specific interventions are recommended.Comfort and trust from the very first session → Friendly, understanding, discreet, and non-judgmental.Effectiveness with anxiety, anger, self-esteem, and relationships → Frequent reports of improved management of thoughts and behaviours.Recommendations → Nearly all reviews end with "I recommend him without hesitation" or similar phrases.ConclusionGiven that the average cost of CBT sessions in Athens, delivered by experienced and well-qualified psychologists in everyday clinical practice, ranges between €60 and €80, Mr. Batakis stands out as one of the psychologists with the highest and most consistent ratings from genuine client experiences and recommendations on the platform.