Sara

Dr Sara Cardoso

Licensed Psychologist

“Clinical psychologist Licensed by the Portuguese Psychologists Association (CP: 12674). Promoting mental health through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with elements of positive psychology and third-wave therapies (therapies based on mindfulness, acceptance, and self-compassion).”

About Me

I am a licensed psychologist, an European Certified Clinical Psychologist, a certified online therapist, and the author of five books on personal development. I specialize in the treatment of Anxiety and Stress, and I also have extensive treatment experience on many other issues such as Self-esteem, Burnout, Depression, Emotional Difficulties, Relationship issues, Chronic illnesses, Grief, Menopause, Life Changes, Highly Sensitive People, LGBTQ people... I believe that suffering should always be temporary, and my goal as a therapist is to help you surpass it, discover your true self, and improve your quality of life. In my sessions, you will encounter a safe place to express your emotions and to be heard with empathy, acceptance, and confidentiality. Together, we will identify effective strategies and develop new coping skills for overcoming challenges and promoting your overall well-being. We will promote positive change and empower you with tools that will help you deal with your problems. You will acquire skills that will serve you for life.

Approach

My therapeutic approach is based on cognitive-behavioral therapy and therapies based on mindfulness, acceptance, and self-compassion. I also include guided relaxation techniques in my sessions. Therapy blends practical skill-building with gentle acceptance, so change feels manageable rather than overwhelming. Sessions are paced to your rhythm, with brief exercises to help you manage your emotions. Exploring mindfulness and self-compassion offers new ways to navigate challenges. This approach fosters grounded, collaborative support and will help you to build useful skills and a kinder and more accepting relationship with yourself.
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Basic Information

In-person & Online

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Services

Individual therapy for adults experiencing Anxiety and Stress, Panic, Self-esteem issues, Burnout, Depression, Emotional Difficulties, Relationship issues, Chronic illnesses, Grief, Menopause, Life Changes, Highly Sensitive People, LGBTQ people...

Services Offered:

  • Consultation

    An initial meeting with a therapist to discuss concerns, ask questions, and determine whether they are the right fit.

  • Counseling

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

    Learn more about Counseling
  • Personal Development

    The ongoing process of self-awareness, self-improvement, and reaching one's potential, pursued not because something is wrong but to live more fully.

  • Mindfulness

    The practice of paying deliberate attention to the present moment without judgement, used to reduce stress and increase awareness of automatic reactions.

    Learn more about Mindfulness
  • Online Therapy

    Therapy sessions conducted over video call, phone, or secure messaging, using the same professional methods delivered remotely.

    Learn more about Online Therapy
  • CBT

    Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, a structured, evidence-based approach that identifies and changes unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours.

    Learn more about CBT
  • Stress Management

    Techniques and strategies for managing the body and mind's response to excessive demands, including relaxation, cognitive restructuring, and lifestyle changes.

    Learn more about Stress Management
  • Psychotherapy

    In-depth therapeutic work that explores patterns in thoughts, emotions, and relationships to produce lasting psychological change.

    Learn more about Psychotherapy
  • ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy)

    A form of therapy that teaches acceptance of difficult thoughts and feelings while guiding action aligned with personal values.

    Learn more about ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy)

Works With:

  • Adults

Area of Expertise

Scope of Practice:

  • 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
  • Anxiety

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

    Learn more about Anxiety
  • Behaviour or Conduct Issues

    Persistent patterns of defiant, aggressive, or rule-breaking behaviour in children or adolescents that significantly disrupt home, school, or social life.

  • 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
  • Career Issues

    Work-related difficulties such as chronic dissatisfaction, conflict, burnout, uncertainty about direction, or the stress of career change.

  • Chronic Illness

    A long-term health condition (e.g., diabetes, autoimmune disease, chronic pain) that persists over time and affects physical, emotional, and social well-being.

    Learn more about Chronic Illness
  • Personal Development

    The ongoing process of self-awareness, self-improvement, and reaching one's potential, pursued not because something is wrong but to live more fully.

  • 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
  • Spiritual or Faith-Based Counseling

    Counselling that integrates spiritual or religious beliefs into the therapeutic process for people who want faith to be part of their healing.

Professional Title:

  • Licensed Psychologist

    A psychologist licensed to independently assess, diagnose, and treat psychological conditions.

Credentials

Registrations

Ordem dos Psicólogos Portugueses (OPP)

Psicóloga

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Qualifications

Faculdade de Psicologia e Ciências da Educação da Universidade do Porto

Service Areas

Dra Sara Cardoso

In-person & Online

Porto, Porto

Portugal

Porto, Portugal