About me

Specialized Treatment

Welcome

I am a licensed psychologist (AP:1006872) and a psychodynamic psychotherapist, specialising in children and adolescents. For more than fifteen years, I have worked with young people and families in schools, psychotherapy centres, hospitals, and judicial settings, creating a safe space where individuals can explore what troubles them and discover new ways of understanding and growth.

Clinical and Academic Background

My studies in Clinical and Forensic Psychology (John Jay College, CUNY) and my PhD in Forensic Psychiatry and Psychology (University of Warwick, funded by the NHS) provided me with a strong scientific foundation. My clinical training at the British Psychotherapy Foundation and at Birkbeck, University of London, shaped my deep commitment to psychodynamic therapy.

As an Assistant Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychology at King’s College London (IoPPN) and the University of West Attica, I teach, supervise emerging psychologists, and conduct research in areas such as eating disorders, emotional wellbeing, conduct problems, and neurodevelopmental conditions. This dual role—as both clinician and academic—constantly enriches my practice. Teaching and research keep me closely connected with the latest theories and methodologies, which I integrate into the therapeutic process, bringing knowledge, reflection, and a broad perspective to clinical care.

Clinical Experience

My professional journey has brought me into contact with a wide spectrum of difficulties. I have worked with young people experiencing bereavement and trauma, with adolescents struggling with eating disorders and body dysmorphic concerns, as well as with children and families facing conduct problems, autism, and ADHD. This breadth of experience enables me to approach each client with openness, adaptability, and respect for their individuality.

My Approach

My psychodynamic approach focuses on understanding the unconscious patterns and emotions that shape relationships and everyday life. Through a stable and confidential therapeutic relationship, children, adolescents, and parents can process their experiences, recognise deeper feelings, and develop new ways of connecting with themselves and with others.

Today

My clinical experience spans schools, specialist psychotherapy centres, charitable organisations, hospitals, nurseries, and judicial settings. I have also worked extensively in both youth and adult prisons, supporting individuals with complex psychological needs.

Over the past two years, I have been working at the Brent Centre for Young People in London, a specialist psychoanalytic service for adolescents and families. My focus is on helping clients uncover unconscious patterns and emotions that shape daily life, supporting them to make sense of their experiences and move toward personal growth.

In addition, my ongoing research on eating disorders, emotional wellbeing, conduct problems, trauma, neurodevelopmental conditions, and life transitions, combined with my teaching and supervisory roles, allows me to provide clinical care that is both deeply personal and scientifically informed.

Studies

PhD in Medicine (Psychiatry), University of Warwick, Mental Health and Wellbeing Unit, Coventry, UK
MSc in Psychodynamic Human Development, British Psychotherapy Foundation and Birkbeck, University of London
MSc in Psychodynamic Counseling and Psychotherapy for Children and Adolescents, Birkbeck, University of London
BA (Honours) in Forensic and Clinical Psychology, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York

Selected Publications

Maria Livanou, Anya Heneghan, Grace Hill,... & Julian Baudinet (2025). Co-producing a Transition Model of Care for Eating Disorders: Lessons Learned from a Multi-Perspective Qualitative Study with Young People, Carers and Mental Health Professionals. Journal of Eating Disorders.
Maria Livanou, Ifigeneia Manitsa, Vedad Hulusic, Muthanna Samara, Marcus Bull, & Alberto De Caro (2024). The development of ReGoal, a serious mobile game for young people with conduct problems. Behaviour & Information Technology.
Treasure, J., & Livanou, M. (2023). Listening to parents caring for individuals with eating disorders through the lens of the common-sense model of illness perception. (Invited Commentary). International Journal of Eating Disorders.

Podcasts & Webinars

The Effects of Social Media on Body Image and Eating Disorders Amongst Young People | Maudsley Learning Webinars