Hi! My name is Teresa. I am a clinical psychologist, and I am very happy to be part of the Compass Psychology team.
My journey in psychology began in Portugal, where I completed my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Psychology at the University of Minho. During my studies, I spent an Erasmus exchange at the University of Salamanca in Spain. Looking back, that was my first experience of building a life in a new country. After graduating, I worked as a clinical psychologist in Portugal, including in a hospital setting, and completed further training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
Over the years, I have lived, studied and worked in Portugal, Spain, Cape Verde and, for the past six years, Finland. Each move taught me something new about what it means to start over: adapting to a new culture and language, missing family and friends, and slowly finding a sense of belonging. These experiences shape how I work today, and they help me understand many of the challenges my international clients can face.
When I first arrived in Finland, I worked as a teacher assistant in daycares before returning to work as a psychologist. It was a valuable experience that gave me insight into child development and Finnish early education culture, and it showed me how important a supportive environment is for children to grow and thrive.
What I like most about being a psychologist is helping people improve their well-being in their everyday lives. I believe in continuous learning, so I am excited to begin psychotherapy training in Finland next January.
Outside of work, I enjoy dance classes, reading and cycling. I also like spending time outdoors in nature with my partner, our daughter and our dog, and being with friends is an important source of joy for me.
I offer therapy for young adults and adults in Portuguese, English and Spanish, with in-person sessions in Espoo and online sessions across Finland.
Warmly,
Teresa Machado