ABOUT ME

The person behind the work

I have graduate in psychology, originally trained in Brazil, and I’ve been living in Berlin for nearly ten years.

Living abroad firsthand shaped how I understand identity, belonging, and psychological adaptation. When I moved to Berlin — barely speaking German, knowing no one, with no clear path to follow — I had to build a career from the ground up. First in HR and leadership development inside German organisations, then expanding into clinical practice. That path wasn't smooth. That's exactly why I understand what you're carrying.

For over 8 years I've worked inside German companies as a Senior People Partner, supporting managers, team leads, and international employees through high-stakes transitions, cultural friction, and the kind of pressure that never shows up in a job description.

Today I also work as a licensed psychological practitioner (Heilpraktikerin für Psychotherapie), using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): an evidence-based approach focused on psychological flexibility and values-driven action. In practice, that means helping you relate differently to your thoughts and emotions, so they have less control over your choices.

I work in a structured but human way. Sessions are a space to slow down, get perspective, and reconnect with what matters to you.

QUALIFICATIONS

Background & credentials

CLINICAL PRACTICE

Heilpraktikerin für Psychotherapie — licensed to practise in Germany under §1 HeilprG

ACADEMIC TRAINING

Psychology graduate trained in Brazil (PUCRS). Note: degree not formally recognised in Germany; practising under Heilpraktiker licence.

Postgraduate Specialization in Positive Psychology (PUCRS)

ACT Immersion Training with Steven Heyes

THERAPEUTIC APPROACH

Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) - evidence-base, focused on psychological flexibility

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

8+ years as Senior People Partner in HR and leadership development inside German organisations (especially in Tech).

In Brazil, worked as a clinical psychologist for nearly 3 years.

LANGUAGES

English • Deutsch • Português

LOCATION & FORMAT

Based in Berlin. Sessions are available online globally and in person in Berlin (near S Plänterwald)

All rights reserved. Gabriela Santos. 2026.