
Ana Maria Smantana BSc, PGDip, MSc, BABCP
I am a BABCP-accredited psychotherapist and clinical supervisor specialising in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR). I work with adults and provide online therapy via secure video sessions.
For the past eight years, I have worked within NHS Talking Therapies, helping people overcome a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties. My clinical practice is guided by the recommendations of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and informed by current research, ensuring that the therapy I provide is evidence-based, effective and tailored to each individual.
I have particular expertise in working with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, depression and low self-esteem. Earlier in my career, I also worked with individuals experiencing addictive disorders and eating disorders, giving me a broad understanding of the different ways psychological difficulties can develop and affect everyday life.
CBT and EMDR form the foundation of my practice, but I recognise that no single approach is right for everyone. When appropriate, I integrate other evidence-based therapies, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). This allows me to adapt therapy to your individual needs while remaining grounded in the best available evidence.
My approach is collaborative, compassionate and practical. Together, we will develop an understanding of the factors that may be maintaining your difficulties, identify realistic and achievable goals, and build the skills and confidence needed to create lasting change. Throughout therapy, I aim to provide a calm, supportive and non-judgemental environment where you feel listened to, understood and able to work at a pace that feels right for you.
I understand that starting therapy can feel daunting, and asking for help is often one of the hardest steps. Whether you are struggling with the effects of trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem or another emotional difficulty, I will work alongside you with empathy, honesty and respect.
I believe that, no matter how overwhelming or longstanding a problem may seem, change is possible. My role is not to tell you what to do, but to help you understand your difficulties, develop effective ways of managing them and support you in building a life that feels more meaningful and fulfilling.

Make Yourself a Priority
High Intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
My credentials
MSc Cognitive Behavioural Therapy at University of Nottingham
PGDip Cognitive Behavioural Therapy at University of Nottingham
BSc Psychology at University of Nottingham Trent
Keele University and the University of Staffordshire- Talking Therapies Supervisors Training Course.
EMDR Europe Standard Accredited Training
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Full enhanced DBS check for working with adults and young people
​Accredited member of the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP).
Details can be found on the CBT Register UK:
http://www.cbtregisteruk.com/
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