About Me


Maya Messerli, M.Sc. – Licensed Psychotherapist


As a psychotherapist, I place great importance on creating a therapeutic space that is based on trust, respect, and clear communication. I work in a resource-oriented and integrative way, which means I adapt therapeutic methods to your individual needs and situation.

Therapeutic Approach

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A practical, goal-oriented therapy that helps you identify and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors.
  • Schema Therapy: Explores deep-rooted emotional patterns (called “schemas”) often formed in childhood, and helps you change the ones that are no longer helpful.
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Teaches you how to accept difficult emotions, focus on what matters to you, and commit to actions that support a meaningful life.
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Helps you manage intense emotions and build better relationships by combining mindfulness with practical coping strategies.
  • Animal-Assisted Therapy: Uses the calming and supportive presence of an animal (like a therapy dog Suki) to help create trust, reduce anxiety, and support emotional connection.

Professional Experience

  • Since 2022: Lead Psychologist at an acute psychiatric care unit (Lucerne, Switzerland)
  • 2018–2022: Member of the regional emergency mental health taskforce and care team (Basel, Switzerland)
  • 2018–2021: Clinical Psychologist specializing in crisis intervention at an inpatient psychiatric unit (Basel, Switzerland)
  • 2018–2021: Clinical Psychologist at an outpatient clinic with a focus on addiction treatment (Basel, Switzerland)
  • 2017–2018: Assistant Psychologist in geriatric psychiatry (Basel, Switzerland)

Memberships

  • Federation of Swiss Psychologists (FSP)

Languages

  • English
  • German

Scroll to Top