• My Credentials

  • MSc Health Psychology - University of Derby, UK

  • BSc (First Class) in Psychology - The Open University, UK

  • Schema Therapy Practitioner - ISST

  • Member of the Schema Therapy Society International

  • Full Member - British Psychological Society

  • Associate Member Hong Kong Psychotherapy Society

  • Somatic Therapy for Attachment Trauma Certification

  • Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy Certification

• My Clinical Focus

  • Therapy for Expats

  • Acute-Stress Disorder

  • Trauma-related stress

  • Burnout

  • Grief & Loss

  • Anxious-Avoidant Personality Disorder

  • Attachment Disorders

  • Generalised Anxiety Disorder

  • Men's Therapy Work

• My Values

  • Confidentiality & Privacy: I maintain the highest standards of data security and clinical confidentiality.

  • Evidence informed structure: I utilise therapeutic models proven by science to help reduce symptoms and foster long-term mental wellness.

  • Compassion & Caring: Creating a judgment-free, safe, and nurturing environment.

  • Collaboration & Connection: Viewing therapy as a team effort rather than a top-down approach.

  • Empowerment: Equipping clients with tools to build self-worth and take action.

  • Inclusivity & Equity: Ensuring a welcoming space for all, regardless of background.

  • Balance & Autonomy: Respecting personal agency while helping clients find stability.

  • Humour & Warmth: Bringing humanity into the session to break down clinical barriers.

Vanessa Bandini MSc FMPsS

"Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It's about how you drive, not where you're going." — Noam Shpancer, PhD

FAQ

Do you work with trauma and long-standing patterns? Yes. We work with trauma-related stress and long-standing emotional/relational patterns—especially when reactions feel “stuck.”

What are somatic approaches, and how do they relate to schema therapy?Somatic approaches build body-based awareness and nervous system regulation (e.g., noticing tension, overwhelm, shutdown). Schema therapy helps you understand and change deeper patterns (schemas and modes). Together, they support lasting change.

Do you offer therapy in English? Yes—sessions are available in English and Spanish.

Do you work with Hong Kong expats? Yes. I support English-speaking expats with relocation stress, cultural adjustment, anxiety/burnout, and relationship strain.

Do we have to discuss traumatic events in detail? No. We use paced, consent-based work. You never have to relive details—therapy focuses on stabilization, regulation, and what feels tolerable.

How many sessions will I need? It depends on your goals. We’ll discuss this during your intro call and can agree on a suitable plan.

What is the complimentary 25-minute intro call? A free 25-minute call to share what you’re seeking, confirm fit, and answer questions about how therapy works.

Are you able to help if I’m experiencing acute suicidality and/or active psychosis? If you’re experiencing acute suicidality, active psychosis, or you’re in immediate danger, please seek urgent services help right away (In Hong Kong: Caritas Family Crisis Support CentreHotline Service & Family Crisis (24 hours) 18288 | Hospital Authority - Mental Health Direct: 24 hours 2466 7350).

"Healing doesn't take time, it takes courage."

The Rooted Growth Collective

'Where healing meets growth: rooted practice, real transformation.'

© 2026 Vanessa Bandini MSc FMBPsS. All rights reserved.

Vanessa Bandini MSc FMBPsS