How do I book a first session?

In-person appointments can be booked through the institutional Lusíadas Saúde page. Alternatively, you can send a request via the contact form on this site, selecting the “Clinical inquiry” category.

Can sessions be held in English?

Yes. Sessions are conducted in Portuguese or English, according to preference.

How long does therapy last?

It depends on the situation and the goals set. Some processes are brief and focused; others require longer support. This is discussed in the first sessions and reviewed along the way.

Are online sessions equivalent to in-person ones?

In many situations yes, with the same framework and ethical requirements. However, some clinical situations call for in-person work; suitability is assessed case by case.

Is what I share confidential?

Yes. Practice is bound by professional confidentiality as set out in the Code of Ethics of the Portuguese Psychologists Association, with the legally established exceptions.

Psychotherapy

Psychology and psychotherapy sessions for adults

Individual psychological care for adults, in Lisbon and online, by Osvaldo Santos — clinical psychologist and psychotherapist, with practice in hospital and private settings.

Book via Lusíadas Saúde Send a request via the form

Registered with the Portuguese Psychologists Association (OPP) — professional registration no. 9088. General speciality: Clinical and Health Psychology. Advanced speciality: Psychotherapy. Verify registration in the OPP directory

Member of the Portuguese Association for Behaviour, Cognitive and Integrative Therapies (APTCCI)

Areas of intervention

Each area has its own page, with information on signs, assessment and intervention.

Anxiety and panic attacks

Anxiety is a normal and useful response. It becomes a problem when it is disproportionate, persistent and starts to constrain choices, relationships and quality of life.

Learn more about anxiety and panic attacks

Depression and mood disorders

Depression is not passing sadness or lack of willpower. It is a persistent change in mood, energy, and in how a person sees themselves and the future.

Learn more about depression and mood disorders

Eating disorders

Difficulties with eating are rarely just about food. They usually involve the relationship with one's body, personal demands and emotional regulation.

Learn more about eating disorders

Obesity and bariatric surgery

Psychological support in obesity does not centre on weight as a number, but on behaviour, associated distress and the sustainability of change.

Learn more about obesity and bariatric surgery

Psychological adjustment to chronic illness

Living with a chronic illness almost always means reorganising routines, expectations and identity. Psychological care supports that adjustment process.

Learn more about psychological adjustment to chronic illness

Online psychotherapy sessions

Online sessions allow continuity and accessibility. They are suitable in many situations, but not all — suitability is assessed case by case.

Learn more about online psychotherapy sessions

Who it is for

Adults seeking ongoing psychological support, either for a specific problem or for a difficult period in life. Sessions are held in Portuguese or English.

Approach

I work from an integrative framework grounded in cognitive-behavioural, interpersonal and experiential approaches. Treatment is tailored to the person, their life stage and jointly defined goals, and the plan is reviewed throughout the process.

How the first session works

· Understanding what brought you here and its impact on daily life.
· Gathering relevant history and context.
· Initial assessment of whether psychotherapy fits the situation.
· Jointly defining goals and next steps.

Duration and frequency

Sessions usually last 50 minutes. Frequency is defined case by case — typically weekly or fortnightly at the start, becoming more spaced as goals are met.

Where sessions take place

In person in Lisbon, at Hospital Lusíadas and in private practice. Online by video call when clinically appropriate.

Languages

Portuguese and English.

Frequently asked questions

How do I book a first session?: In-person appointments can be booked through the institutional Lusíadas Saúde page. Alternatively, you can send a request via the contact form on this site, selecting the “Clinical inquiry” category.
Can sessions be held in English?: Yes. Sessions are conducted in Portuguese or English, according to preference.
How long does therapy last?: It depends on the situation and the goals set. Some processes are brief and focused; others require longer support. This is discussed in the first sessions and reviewed along the way.
Are online sessions equivalent to in-person ones?: In many situations yes, with the same framework and ethical requirements. However, some clinical situations call for in-person work; suitability is assessed case by case.
Is what I share confidential?: Yes. Practice is bound by professional confidentiality as set out in the Code of Ethics of the Portuguese Psychologists Association, with the legally established exceptions.