Maria

Maria Tontcheva

Professional Counselor

Verified

“I work with individuals experiencing a wide range of psychological and relational difficulties.”

About Me

My approach is eclectic and trauma-informed, blending psychological depth, compassion and professionalism. I am registered in the UK and Switzerland, and work integratively to help you explore the different parts of your inner world, reconnect with your potential and inner wisdom, and support meaningful change.

Approach

With me, you can explore any cognitive and behavioural patterns that may be holding you back — patterns that might be preventing you from recognising your inner strength, wisdom, and unique qualities. Together, we can look at the influence of your background, upbringing, relationships, and personal development. We may also explore the possibility of meaningful change — change that’s aligned with your values and rooted in what truly matters to you. My approach is grounded in Psychosynthesis and shaped by warmth, acceptance, and curiosity. I integrate elements of Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), drawing on a range of tailored techniques — including mindfulness, Gestalt practices, breath and somatic work, and creative methods such as drawing and guided imagery. Above all, my priority is to offer a supportive, reflective, and empathetic space where you feel heard and understood, and where greater self-awareness, self-acceptance, and personal growth can emerge.
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Basic Information

In-person & Online

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Services

Individual councelling

Services Offered:

  • 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
  • Trauma Counseling

    Counselling specifically for people affected by traumatic events, focused on processing what happened and reducing symptoms like flashbacks and hypervigilance.

    Learn more about Trauma Counseling
  • Free Consultation

    A no-cost initial session to meet the therapist, discuss needs, and decide whether they are the right fit before committing.

  • 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
  • Psychoeducation

    Structured information provided about a mental health condition (what it is, why it occurs, and what strategies can help) as part of the therapeutic process.

    Learn more about Psychoeducation
  • 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
  • Online Therapy

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

    Learn more about Online Therapy
  • 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.

  • Addiction Counselling

    Counselling specifically focused on substance use or behavioural addictions, addressing the psychological drivers and patterns of dependence.

    Learn more about Addiction Counselling
  • Relationship Counselling

    Counselling for couples or partners focused on improving communication, rebuilding trust, and strengthening emotional connection.

Works With:

  • Adults
  • Individuals

Area of Expertise

Scope of Practice:

  • Anger

    An intense emotional response to perceived threat, injustice, or frustration that, when persistent or uncontrolled, can damage relationships and well-being.

    Learn more about Anger
  • Anxiety

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

    Learn more about Anxiety
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • PTSD

    Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, a condition that develops after a traumatic event, causing flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, and emotional numbness.

    Learn more about PTSD
  • Addiction

    A compulsive dependence on a substance or behaviour, such as alcohol, drugs, or gambling, that causes harmful consequences to health, relationships, or daily life.

    Learn more about Addiction
  • Cancer Support

    The psychological and emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis on the individual and their loved ones, including fear, grief, and adjustment to treatment.

  • Shame

    A deep, painful emotion involving the belief that one is fundamentally flawed or unworthy, which can affect self-perception and relationships.

    Learn more about Shame

Professional Title:

  • Professional Counselor

    A counselor qualified to provide professional mental health counselling services.

Credentials

Registrations

British Association for Counseling and Psychotherapy (BACP)

Counsellor

Swiss Association for Counseling (SGfB)

Counsellor

Qualifications

Psychosynthesis Trust

Regent's University London

Memberships

British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)

Membership: 411620

Service Areas

With Maria Therapy

In-person & Online

Genève, Genève

Switzerland

Genève, Switzerland