Katrina Spartalis (B.Ed, PgDipPsych, M.A. Counselling) is a highly experienced Australian Counsellor with a diverse background in providing support to both young people and adults with their mental health journeys. Her academic achievements include a B.A. in Education from the University of New South Wales, a Graduate Diploma of Psychology from the University of Sydney, and an M.A. in Counselling from the University of New England, Australia. Drawing on her educational background, Katrina brings a comprehensive and empathetic approach to her counseling practice, ensuring a holistic understanding of the challenges her clients may face.

With a professional career spanning nearly two decades, Katrina has held various roles, from Secondary school teacher, Safeguarding Lead to Director of Wellbeing and School Counsellor. For the past nine years, she has dedicated herself to counselling within the multicultural landscape of Dubai.

Katrina's scope of practice is extensive, covering children aged 4-18, adults, families, and couples. She is known for her enthusiasm, warmth, and compassionate approach, deeply caring for those under her guidance. Her counselling philosophy is firmly rooted in person-centered principles, emphasizing the creation of a safe and nurturing space for clients.

Her engagement with clients is characterized by empathy, congruence, authenticity and trust. This approach enables her to form a strong therapeutic relationship built on genuine connection and rapport. Katrina fosters a non-judgmental space, providing unconditional positive regard, allowing individuals to express themselves fully without fear of judgment. She is highly attuned to her clients' needs, and her non-directive approach empowers them to autonomously explore their thoughts and feelings.

Katrina recognizes that personal growth is a gradual process, and she respects the unique timelines of her clients. She allows them the necessary time to explore their thoughts and emotions, facilitating the deepening of their relationships with themselves and their inner guidance systems.

Katrina has conducted numerous trainings and workshops for counsellors, parents and other professionals. She has also presented at international counselling conferences, written editorial articles on mental health and wellbeing, delivered a series of radio talks on raising children in the digital age and written a children’s book on emotion regulation. 

As a licensed social counsellor with the Community Development Authority (CDA), she adheres to the highest professional standards. She is passionate about fostering personal growth and providing guidance for clients to overcome obstacles, promoting positive changes in their lives. With an unwavering commitment to those she serves, Katrina champions the well-being of individuals across all ages and cultures. She offers effective treatment and targeted interventions to address various mental health challenges.

Treatment Approaches:

• Person-Centered Therapy
• Emotion Focused Family Therapy
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
• Gottman’s Method Couples therapy
• Solution Focused Brief Therapy
• Play, role-play and art therapy techniques
• Executive coaching
• Strengths based coaching