faq

FAQ (questions and answers)

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions and Answers

Common questions about starting personality-focused psychotherapy in Lisbon.

Piotr Szmyt, psychotherapist in Lisbon
How can I find an English-speaking therapist in Lisbon for personality-focused work?

Finding the right support in a foreign city is crucial. In Lisbon, I provide specialized psychotherapy in English for the expat community, focusing on deep-rooted personality patterns and character development. My practice is conveniently located for those seeking professional mental health support in a language they feel most comfortable with.

What are “Character Styles” in psychotherapy and how do they affect my life?

Character styles are the consistent ways we think, feel, and relate to others, often shaped by early experiences. Drawing on the work of Nancy McWilliams and psychoanalytic diagnosis, I help clients identify their unique personality organization (such as narcissistic, schizoid, or depressive styles). Understanding these patterns is the first step toward lasting emotional change.

Does my personality type (e.g., Schizoid, Narcissistic, or Obsessive) require a specific therapeutic approach?

Yes. According to the framework established by Nancy McWilliams, each personality organization has different needs and defense mechanisms. For example, a “Schizoid” style might focus on safely connecting with others, while an “Obsessive-Compulsive” style might work on integrating emotions. My therapy in Lisbon is tailored to these specific diagnostic nuances.

Why is a psychoanalytic diagnosis important for my therapy?

A psychoanalytic diagnosis isn’t about “labeling” you; it’s about understanding the “map” of your internal world. By identifying your level of character organization (neurotic, borderline, or psychotic), we can choose the most effective interventions. This depth-oriented approach goes beyond surface symptoms to treat the person as a whole.

Do you offer therapy for expats in Lisbon dealing with identity and character issues?

Absolutely. Being an expat often amplifies underlying character traits or brings hidden patterns to the surface. I specialize in helping the international community in Lisbon navigate these challenges by combining cultural sensitivity with a deep understanding of personality dynamics and relational patterns.

Do you offer couples therapy?

We offer EFT expert couples therapy. Read more on our dedicated couples therapy page.

Sylwia Latacz

Written by

Sylwia Latacz

I hold a Master of Science in Psychology from the Jagiellonian University in Krakow (2014) and completed a clinical psychiatric internship, followed by eight years of postgraduate training in Integrative and Process-Oriented Psychotherapy. I am a licensed psychologist registered with the OPP (Ordem dos Psicologos Portugueses, No. 31224) and work under regular clinical supervision.

Continue Reading

Recognizing Narcissistic Patterns in a Relationship

Relationship Patterns Recognizing Narcissistic Patterns in a Relationship — and What Actually Helps You can't diagnose a partner from the…

Read: Recognizing Narcissistic Patterns in a Relationship →

Expat Adjustment Curve

The cultural adjustment curve — a gradual arc from disorientation through adaptation to integration — is one of the most…

Read: Expat Adjustment Curve →

Do I have low self-esteem?

Individual Therapy Do I Have Low Self-Esteem? Self-esteem isn't the surface-level self-image popular culture describes — it's about the relationship…

Read: Do I have low self-esteem? →

Wondering if therapy could help with what you're dealing with?

Book a Consultation