How we work
A concise guide to booking, the first meeting, goals, frequency, progress reviews, and ending therapy.
Read the guidePrivate psychology practice · Cluj-Napoca and online
Nicoleta-Monica Pașca, PhD
Clinical psychologist · Cognitive behavioural psychotherapist · PhD in Psychology.
I am Nicoleta-Monica Pașca, PhD in Psychology, a clinical psychologist and cognitive behavioural psychotherapist. In my work, I combine clinical experience, research, and evidence-based interventions with an attentive and authentic therapeutic relationship.
Therapy does not require you to arrive with a perfectly formulated problem. We begin by understanding what is happening, what you need, and which changes would be important to you. Together, we then shape a direction suited to your pace and context.
Cognitive behavioural psychotherapist
Areas addressed
Areas commonly addressed
Your experience does not need to fit neatly into a category to deserve attention and support.
- anxiety
- panic attacks and health anxiety
- depression and persistent low mood
- emotional stress
- burnout
- sleep difficulties associated with stress, anxiety, or illness
- overthinking and rumination
- perfectionism, self-criticism, and difficulty tolerating uncertainty
- procrastination, decision paralysis, and difficulties with motivation
- difficulties with emotional regulation and managing intense emotions
- traumatic experiences and their emotional effects
- relationship difficulties
- assertiveness, communication, and personal boundaries
- difficulties related to sexuality and intimacy
- the emotional impact of fertility difficulties
- self-esteem and body image
- loneliness, isolation, and social withdrawal
- grief, loss, and anticipatory grief
- adjustment to illness
- the emotional impact of chronic pain, persistent fatigue, and bodily changes
- fear of recurrence or disease progression and anxiety related to tests and treatment
- emotional strain and exhaustion among caregivers
- adjustment to medical, family, or professional changes
- returning to work and valued activities after illness
- other difficult periods in life
If you do not see yourself reflected in this list, that is completely okay. Everyone experiences life differently; you do not need to identify with a category or already have a clearly defined problem before coming to an initial conversation. Together, we can explore what brings you here and whether this kind of support is right for you.
Learn more about how I workServices
Support tailored to the person, not a universal formula.
Each process begins with understanding your current situation, resources, and goals. Together, we establish a clear and realistic direction.
01individual
Individual psychotherapy
For anxiety, depression, burnout, overthinking, trauma, and relationship, sexuality, or fertility-related difficulties.
- emotional regulation
- understanding recurring patterns
- a more balanced relationship with yourself
02relationships
Couples therapy
For partners who want to understand conflict, emotional distance, mistrust, or changes in their relationship.
- clearer and safer communication
- healthy boundaries
- informed decisions as a couple
03clinical
Psychological assessment
A structured exploration of current difficulties and how they affect emotional, relational, and day-to-day functioning.
- individualised clinical formulation
- clear and realistic recommendations
- guidance towards appropriate care
04specialised
Psycho-oncology
Psychological support throughout diagnosis, treatment, survivorship, and the changes cancer may bring to individuals and families.
- coping with uncertainty and fear
- the mind-body connection
- support for family members
05individual and group
Clinical psychology supervision
Individual supervision or a modular group programme for developing assessment, clinical formulation, intervention, and reflective-practice skills.
- individual or group format
- 12-month modular programme
- case discussion and reflective practice
A guide, not a diagnosis
Is therapy right for me?
It can be helpful to seek support before things become overwhelming. You do not need a diagnosis or a perfect explanation.
View the complete guide- your mind does not seem to stop and you overanalyse
- you feel exhausted, tense, or disconnected
- it is difficult to regulate your emotions
- you are facing change or a period of uncertainty
- the same conflicts keep returning in your relationship
- a medical diagnosis has changed your sense of safety and control
The first meeting
What happens in the first session?
You do not need to prepare or know exactly how to explain the problem. The first meeting is also a space for clarification.
- 01
We talk about what brings you to therapy.
- 02
We clarify the context, your needs, and your expectations.
- 03
We decide whether and how we can work together.
- 04
We formulate the first goals.
Resources
Clear, carefully prepared psychological information.
Explore practical information about beginning therapy, emotional health, relationships, burnout, trauma, and psycho-oncology.
Is therapy right for me?
Common situations in which support may help, and guidance on when another type of care is more appropriate.
Learn morePsihoNico blog
Read about the first psychotherapy session, overthinking and exhaustion, and psychological adjustment to a medical diagnosis.
View articlesUseful topics shaped around real questions
- How do I know whether I need psychotherapy?
- What happens in the first session?
- Anxiety or overthinking?
- How can we recognise burnout?
- Why do the same conflicts repeat in a relationship?
- How do we adjust psychologically to a cancer diagnosis?
- How can a caregiver be supported?
- Psychologist, psychotherapist, or psychiatrist?
Experience and research
Clinical practice supported by research and academic training.
My experience includes private practice, clinical work in medical settings, CBT, ACT, and CFT interventions, health psychology research, and interdisciplinary projects.
- clinical experience in private practice and oncology settings
- individualised interventions and progress monitoring
- research, publications, and European projects
- academic work and education in health psychology
Before the first session
Frequently asked questions
It is natural to have questions before beginning. These answers may make the first step clearer.
What happens in the first meeting?
We discuss what brings you to therapy, your current context, and what you would like to change. It is also an opportunity to see whether my way of working feels suitable.
How long is a session, and what is the fee?
An individual session lasts 60 minutes and costs RON 250. A couples session lasts 90 minutes and costs RON 400.
How often do sessions take place?
Individual psychotherapy is usually weekly at first. Couples sessions are usually weekly or fortnightly. Frequency is agreed together and may be adjusted according to goals and progress.
Are sessions confidential?
Yes. Confidentiality is an essential condition of psychological work, within the limits established by applicable law and professional ethics.
Can I attend online?
Yes. Online sessions use WhatsApp or Google Meet. Mondays are online only; from Tuesday to Thursday you may choose in-person or online appointments.
What is the cancellation policy?
Please cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours in advance. Late cancellations and missed sessions are charged in full.
Do I need a diagnosis to begin therapy?
No. You may seek support for a difficulty, an important change, exhaustion, recurring conflict, or a wish to better understand yourself, even without a diagnosis.
When will I receive a reply?
Appointment requests and messages are handled within 2–3 business days. This practice does not provide emergency services, and messages are not monitored continuously.
Booking
Choose the service that fits your needs.
Individual psychotherapy appears first. Supervision is not bookable through the online calendar and is therefore not included in this list.
Professional collaborationsnicoleta_monica22@yahoo.com
Important: this practice does not provide emergency services. If you or another person is in immediate danger, call 112.