Luminara psychology
About Me
I am
Hõbe Treufeldt
I am a EuroPsy-certified clinical psychologist and researcher specialising in stigma reduction in mental health and clinical communication, diagnostic communication, and complex chronic symptoms such as persistent physical symptoms (PPS) and functional disorders (FDs). My work focuses on improving patient–clinician communication, reducing structural stigma, and supporting healthcare professionals in navigating clinical uncertainty.
I completed my PhD in Medicine at the University of Sheffield as part of the prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie ETUDE network, where I investigated stigmatisation in medical consultations and focused on methods on how to improve clinical communication. I have extensive clinical experience across psychiatry, pulmonary medicine, rehabilitation, and multidisciplinary care teams. I have extensive experience working in cross-cultural environments and I am currently registered to practice as a clinical psychologist in Estonia and in New Zealand.
My current work includes:
- training and consulting for healthcare organisations
- supporting clinical teams in communication and stigma reduction
- contributing to international research collaborations
- developing educational materials, workshops, and professional courses
Qualifications and kogemus
Certified clinical psychologist (MA, EuroPsy certificate in Clinical and Health Psychology). Estonian professional licence: 164511
PhD, University of Sheffield (UK) – doctoral research focused on stigma and the impact of healthcare structures on consultations
International research and professional experience at Radboud University Medical Center (Netherlands), University of Sheffield (UK), and the Estonian University of Life Sciences
Member of the Estonian Association of Clinical Psychologists, the British Psychological Society, and the New Zealand College of Clinical Psychologists. Licensed to practise as a clinical psychologist in New Zealand
Clinical practice in psychiatry and pulmonary medicine at Tartu University Hospital, in sports medicine and rehabilitation clinics, and across rehabilitation services
International speaker and published researcher, with articles in Journal of Psychosomatic Research and Patient Education & Counseling, and presentations at leading European and international conferences
Research
My research has focused on how stigma and systemic structures shape human experience — both socially and individually. I have studied how healthcare systems, communication, and societal attitudes influence the way people understand and live with illness, and how these barriers can be reduced.
I have developed approaches, training materials, and practical frameworks that support healthcare professionals in reducing structural stigma, building trust, and fostering patient-centred communication.
My publications have appeared in leading international journals, including Journal of Psychosomatic Research and Patient Education & Counseling.
This scientific foundation significantly enriches my clinical work. I see each person as a whole — never just a diagnosis or a set of symptoms.
Therapeutic Approaches
and Training
My therapeutic work is integrative and flexible — I adapt methods to the client’s unique needs. I have formal training in multiple approaches, including:
- Trauma and PTSD therapy – specialised training focused on creating safe, evidence-based support for trauma recovery
- Motivational Interviewing (MI) – collaborative work to enhance motivation and support meaningful change
- Mindfulness and self-compassion – cultivating awareness, balance, and resilience against stress and burnout
- Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT) – short, practical interventions that emphasise achievable goals
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT, foundational training) – evidence-based strategies for anxiety, depression, and related conditions
- Systemic and family therapy perspective – integrating the role of relationships and networks in mental health
- Psychological testing and diagnostics – including WAIS, IPDE, STiP-5, and other standardised tools
- Registered Clinical Psychologist: New Zealand Psychologist Board, registration No 90-09092
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) – strengthening emotional regulation and coping skills
myValues and
Values and
approach to customer
My work is guided by the following values:
Evidence-based practice
every intervention is grounded in internationally recognised research
Human connection and accessibility
therapy is a safe, respectful, and compassionate space
Collaboration
we work together to find approaches that fit your life and context
Holistic perspective
I aim to understand you as a whole person, not only through the lens of symptoms or diagnosis
What to Expect from Working with Me?
Working with me means
- you will be supported by a clinical psychologist and researcher with international expertise.
- Our work goes beyond “fixing symptoms” — the focus is on your overall wellbeing and resilience. Therapy is a collaborative process that values your personal story while acknowledging the wider context in which you live and adapt.
- I draw flexibly on multiple therapeutic approaches according to your needs.
- Sessions are conducted in a safe, stigma-free environment, where your experiences are respected and valued.
Therapeutic Approaches
and training
My therapeutic work is integrative and flexible — I adapt methods to the client’s unique needs. I have formal training in multiple approaches, including: I have formal training in multiple approaches, including:
- Trauma and PTSD therapy – specialised training focused on creating safe, evidence-based support for trauma recovery
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) – strengthening emotional regulation and coping skills
- Motivational Interviewing (MI) – collaborative work to enhance motivation and support meaningful change
- Mindfulness and self-compassion – cultivating awareness, balance, and resilience against stress and burnout
- Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT) – short, practical interventions that emphasise achievable goals
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT, foundational training) – evidence-based strategies for anxiety, depression, and related conditions
- Systemic and family therapy perspective – integrating the role of relationships and networks in mental health