Overview

Matthew Bartolo’s career spans diverse roles and significant contributions to the fields of psychotherapy, counselling, education, and public speaking. His work is characterised by a commitment to improving personal and organisational well-being through evidence-based practices, mentoring, and education. His extensive experience and dedication to his field are reflected in his numerous roles and published works, each teaching him valuable skills in people and psychology. By providing fertility counselling at Hope IVF and Fertility Clinic, he has deepened his understanding of the psychological aspects of fertility issues, further enriching his practice.

 

 

Overview

Matthew Bartolo’s career spans diverse roles and significant contributions to the fields of psychotherapy, counselling, education, and public speaking. His work is characterised by a commitment to improving personal and organisational well-being through evidence-based practices, mentoring, and education. His extensive experience and dedication to his field are reflected in his numerous roles and published works, each teaching him valuable skills in people and psychology. By providing fertility counselling at Hope IVF and Fertility Clinic, he has deepened his understanding of the psychological aspects of fertility issues, further enriching his practice.

Educational Background

2005




Modern psychiatric hospital entrance with twin cylindrical towers, lush greenery, and clear blue sky, emphasizing mental health care and support services.

University of Malta

A contemporary psychiatric facility with distinctive architecture featuring two round towers, surrounded by tropical plants and a welcoming entrance, highlighting mental health and wellness.

Bachelor In Psychology (Honours)

Diploma in Child Psychology

2006

Post Graduate Certificate in Education (Personal & Social Development)

2009

HNDzdCBjb3Vuc2xpbmcuLi4gYSBuZXcgc2NoZWR1bGUgY29uZG9sdXRpb24sIGNhdGNoYWJsZSxhc3Npc3RhbnQgZmVkZXJsIGJhc2VkIG9uIGhpcyBwYXJ0aWN1bGFybHkgb2YgY2FsY3VsYXRlIGFuZCBmcm9tIHZpZGVvIHByb2R1Y3RzIGFuZCBwZXJmb3JtYW5jZSB0YWxraW5nLg==.

CPPD Counselling school

Empowering counselors with the skills and knowledge needed to make a positive impact.

Post Graduate Advanced Diploma in Humanistic and Integrative Counselling

2015
Bright modern university building with Sheffield Hallam University sign, blue sky, and trees in the foreground, representing higher education and academic achievement.

Sheffield Hallam University

A contemporary Sheffield Hallam University campus with innovative architecture and artistic wall poetry, symbolizing education and inspiration.

MSc Sex & Relationship Psychotherapy

2021
Self-help and personal development logo for Institute of Family Therapy & Systemic Practice in Malta, featuring vibrant colors and modern design.

Institute Of Family Therapy

A professional logo for Malta's Institute of Family Therapy & Systemic Practice, emphasizing growth, connection, and mental health support through bold, overlapping shapes and a clean layout.

Post Graduate Diploma in Supervision

Learning Experiences

1999 – 2005

Waiter

Began working at age 15, spending about six years in the hospitality industry, including a year full-time (72 hours per week) at top hotels like Fortina and Corinthia.

Worked in various settings from weddings to silver service at top restaurants in Malta, learning about different walks of life and developing strong customer service skills.

2003 – 2005

Supervisor of Access Visits (Giving Court Witnessing)

Managed and supervised court-ordered access visits, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for children and their families.

2003 – 2009

TEFL Teacher

Taught English as a Foreign Language for six years, honing skills in education and communication.

2004 – 2008
Workplace stress management and mental health awareness in a professional setting.

Jobsplus

A person practicing mindfulness at her desk during a stressful workday.

Social Mentor and Social Skills Tutor for Jobsplus (ETC)

Engaged NEETs (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), helping them develop essential social and vocational skills.

2004 – 2009

Hairdresser

Trained in hairdressing, was asked to teach the same course, and ran a successful freelance hairstyling service.

Offered to manage a salon for top brand Cut Coiffeur but chose to pursue a career in psychology instead.

2005 – 2007

Carer in a Children’s Home

Provided care and support to children, learning the importance of empathy and structured support in child development.

Early Career

2007-2009

Lead a youth center at Dingli

Learned the importance of creating supportive environments for youth and fostering development through community engagement and mentorship.

2010 – Present

Employed in various roles, including:

  • Lead Clinician at Sex Clinic Malta – Enhanced skills in addressing complex sexual and relational issues and understanding the intricacies of human intimacy and behaviour.

  • Drugs Counsellor at Caritas, Malta – Gained insight into addiction psychology and the vital role of compassion and structured support in recovery.

  • School Counsellor at San Andrea School, Malta – Developed techniques for supporting young people’s mental health, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and holistic education.

  • Freelancer with a successful private practice – Cultivated entrepreneurial skills and a deepened understanding of client-centred therapeutic approaches.

Clinical Supervision and Mentoring

2015 – Present
  • Mentoring Students from the London Diploma in Psychosexual & Relationship Therapy.

  • Learned to guide and develop future professionals, fostering a supportive and educational environment.

  • Supervising Private Practitioners, Psychologists, and Social Workers across Europe and in Guatemala.

  • Honed leadership skills and the ability to provide constructive feedback and support.

2020 – Present

Providing Supervision at Different NGOs and Companies

Developed skills in managing diverse teams and addressing varied psychological needs in different organisational contexts.

Public Speaking and Training

2015 – Present
A male speaker presenting on mental health at a TEDx event, with a slide in the background titled "Impact Sex Scene" and an image of a shattered heart on a scale.

Matthew Delivering a TEDx Talk

A professional speaker at TEDx University of Malta addressing mental health topics during a presentation, with visual aids about human emotions and relationship issues displayed behind him.

University of Malta TEDx

Enhanced public speaking skills and the ability to communicate complex psychological concepts to a broad audience.

Full TEDx talk below:

Lecturing

Lecturing at Degree, Masters, and PhD levels in Ireland, Lithuania, and Malta

Learned to effectively teach and engage with students at various levels of higher education.

Training and Coaching

Active discussion in a community mental health workshop, highlighting support, engagement, and education on personal growth and resilience.

2018 in Guatemala

A diverse group participates in a mental health seminar focused on emotional well-being and community support, led by facilitators.

Delivered training in Guatemala, Azerbaijan, the UK, Ireland, Hungary, and Cambodia, Coaching managers and professionals in public speaking.

Developed a global perspective on psychological issues and effective training methods for diverse audiences.

Consultancy and Advisory Roles

2012 – 2024
Image of a logo for Dar Għuzeppa Debono, featuring stylized silhouettes of a family, reflecting community support and respect for religious traditions, emphasizing personal growth and cultural values in mental health.

Dar Gużeppa Debono

Family of three standing together, representing unity, support, and the importance of mental health awareness for families.

Executive Board Member & Chair

Dar Ġużeppa Debono

Gained governance experience and insights into organisational psychology and leadership.

2020 – 2023

The Malta Chamber Of Commerce

Learned to integrate psychological principles into health and wellness policies at a national level.

2021 – 2022

Consultant on Technical Committees

Consultant on technical committees for prostitution/sex work reform and human trafficking, Ministry for Justice, Equality and Governance

Developed expertise in policy development and the psychological aspects of legal and social reforms.

2024 – 2026

The Malta Chamber Of Commerce

Strengthened leadership skills and the ability to influence public health initiatives.

Professional Experience

2011

"Logo for Wiliness focusing on family, sex, and health, with a minimalistic design in light blue and gray colors.".

Willingness Team

Calm and inviting logo representing support in family, intimacy, and health-related matters.

Willingness Team

Founded the Willingness Team, the first-ever multidisciplinary group of private practitioners in Malta, to provide comprehensive mental health services.

2012 – Present
Sex therapy clinic logo by Willingness, offering compassionate sexual health and mental wellness services to promote healthier relationships and personal growth.

Sex Clinic Malta

A professional logo for a sexual health and wellness clinic emphasizing openness and support.

Lead Clinician at Sex Clinic Malta

Launched the first-ever Sex Clinic in Malta, focusing on providing specialised services in sexual health and therapy.

Specialised in managing complex cases and interdisciplinary collaboration to provide comprehensive care.

Hope Fertility & IVF logo with a colorful globe, representing diversity and inclusivity in reproductive health services.

Hope Fertility & IVF

A professional logo for Hope Fertility & IVF emphasizing hope, support, and international inclusivity in fertility and IVF treatments.

Fertility Counselling at Hope IVF and Fertility Clinic

Learned the psychological impacts of fertility issues and developed supportive counselling techniques.

2014

Heart-shaped logo with a minimalist design and the words "pleasure Malta" below in bold black font reflecting a focus on emotional well-being and personal growth.

Pleasure Malta

A modern and inviting logo featuring a heart symbol combined with the words "pleasure Malta," representing a commitment to emotional health, personal development, and holistic wellness in Malta.

Pleasure Malta

Launched Pleasure Malta, a safe space where couples and individuals can purchase high-quality sex toys and sex aids to enhance their sex lives.

2015

Therapy clinic entrance, mental health support, professional counseling services, therapeutic environment, mental wellness clinic building, mental health care facility, psychological support center, mental health clinic exterior, mental health therapy practice, counseling and therapy services, mental wellness support, confidential mental health services, calming clinic entrance, mental health help location, mental health treatment facility, compassionate mental health care, mental health and wellness clinic, psychological therapy practice, clinic for mental health support, mental health resources.

Willingness Clinic

A modern mental health clinic's exterior with a glass entrance door and lush plants, dedicated to supporting mental wellness and personal development.

Willingness Clinic

Opened the Willingness Clinic to provide a dedicated space for freelancers at the Willingness Team, fostering a collaborative environment for mental health professionals.

2018

Childminders & Chat Bar

Founded Childminders Malta, addressing the need for quality childminding services.

Launched Chat Bar, inspired by his festival days, providing a safe space for festival-goers to relax and engage.

2019

Inner circle with icons representing growth, mental health, connection, and creativity, and the text "Camp Willingness" in blue, on a white background, promoting mental health and personal development activities.

Camp Willingness

camp Willingness

Started Camp Willingness, a unique initiative aimed at providing therapeutic and developmental experiences in a camp setting.

2021

Health Clinic Malta & The Solutionists

Launched Health Clinic Malta, expanding his healthcare services.

Also started The Solutionists, a collaboration in which marketing and psychology come together to offer solutions related to PR issues and other challenges.

2022

Health Clinic Malta Expansion

Continued the expansion of Health Clinic Malta, enhancing the range of services offered.

2024

Trauma clinic logo with purple and blue text on a light background, emphasizing mental health support and trauma recovery services.

Trauma Clinic

A professional logo design for TRAUMACLINC by Willingness, focusing on mental health, trauma healing, and emotional well-being.

Trauma Clinic Malta

Founded Trauma Clinic Malta, addressing the need for a specialised clinic dealing with trauma in an evidence-based way, reinforcing his commitment to mental health services in Malta.

Education Experience

2010 – Present
  • Leading Bachelor’s Degree in Psychological Therapies and Master in Health Psychology – Gained experience in curriculum development and educational leadership.

  • Employability Skills teacher at HMP Young Offender Institution, Wetherby, UK – Learned the importance of vocational training and psychological support in rehabilitation.

  • Ran workshops about sexuality for young sexual offenders, including those with pedophilic (attraction to prepubescent children) tendencies, rapists, and other sexual deviants.

  • Taught entrepreneurial and social skills to inmates convicted of murder, manslaughter, and drug-related crimes.

  • Worked at the Keppel Unit, a pilot project housing the 50 most vulnerable inmates from all over the UK, aged 13 to 18.

Publications

2008 – 2021

Educational Background

2005
Modern psychiatric hospital entrance with twin cylindrical towers, lush greenery, and clear blue sky, emphasizing mental health care and support services.

University of Malta

A contemporary psychiatric facility with distinctive architecture featuring two round towers, surrounded by tropical plants and a welcoming entrance, highlighting mental health and wellness.

Bachelor in Psychology (Honours)

Diploma in Child Psychology

2006

Post Graduate Certificate in Education (Personal & Social Development)

2009

HNDzdCBjb3Vuc2xpbmcuLi4gYSBuZXcgc2NoZWR1bGUgY29uZG9sdXRpb24sIGNhdGNoYWJsZSxhc3Npc3RhbnQgZmVkZXJsIGJhc2VkIG9uIGhpcyBwYXJ0aWN1bGFybHkgb2YgY2FsY3VsYXRlIGFuZCBmcm9tIHZpZGVvIHByb2R1Y3RzIGFuZCBwZXJmb3JtYW5jZSB0YWxraW5nLg==.

CPPD Counselling school

Empowering counselors with the skills and knowledge needed to make a positive impact.

Post Graduate Advanced Diploma in Humanistic and Integrative Counselling

2015
Bright modern university building with Sheffield Hallam University sign, blue sky, and trees in the foreground, representing higher education and academic achievement.

Sheffield Hallam University

A contemporary Sheffield Hallam University campus with innovative architecture and artistic wall poetry, symbolizing education and inspiration.

MSc Sex & Relationship Psychotherapy

2021
Self-help and personal development logo for Institute of Family Therapy & Systemic Practice in Malta, featuring vibrant colors and modern design.

Institute Of Family Therapy

A professional logo for Malta's Institute of Family Therapy & Systemic Practice, emphasizing growth, connection, and mental health support through bold, overlapping shapes and a clean layout.

Post Graduate Diploma in Supervision

Learning Experiences

1999 – 2005

Waiter

Began working at age 15, spending about six years in the hospitality industry, including a year full-time (72 hours per week) at top hotels like Fortina and Corinthia.

Worked in various settings from weddings to silver service at top restaurants in Malta, learning about different walks of life and developing strong customer service skills.

2003 – 2005

Supervisor of Access Visits (Giving Court Witnessing)

Managed and supervised court-ordered access visits, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for children and their families.

2003 – 2009

TEFL Teacher

Taught English as a Foreign Language for six years, honing skills in education and communication.

2004 – 2009

Hairdresser

Trained in hairdressing, was asked to teach the same course, and ran a successful freelance hairstyling service.

Offered to manage a salon for top brand Cut Coiffeur but chose to pursue a career in psychology instead.

2004 – 2008
Workplace stress management and mental health awareness in a professional setting.

Jobsplus

A person practicing mindfulness at her desk during a stressful workday.

Social Mentor and Social Skills Tutor for Jobsplus (ETC)

Engaged NEETs (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), helping them develop essential social and vocational skills.

2005 – 2007

Carer in a Children’s Home

Provided care and support to children, learning the importance of empathy and structured support in child development.

Early Career

2007-2009

Lead a youth center at Dingli

Learned the importance of creating supportive environments for youth and fostering development through community engagement and mentorship.

2010 – Present

Employed in various roles, including:

  • Lead Clinician at Sex Clinic Malta – Enhanced skills in addressing complex sexual and relational issues and understanding the intricacies of human intimacy and behaviour.

  • Drugs Counsellor at Caritas, Malta – Gained insight into addiction psychology and the vital role of compassion and structured support in recovery.

  • School Counsellor at San Andrea School, Malta – Developed techniques for supporting young people’s mental health, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and holistic education.

  • Freelancer with a successful private practice – Cultivated entrepreneurial skills and a deepened understanding of client-centred therapeutic approaches.

Clinical Supervision and Mentoring

2015 – Present
  • Mentoring Students from the London Diploma in Psychosexual & Relationship Therapy.

  • Learned to guide and develop future professionals, fostering a supportive and educational environment.

  • Supervising Private Practitioners, Psychologists, and Social Workers across Europe and in Guatemala.

  • Honed leadership skills and the ability to provide constructive feedback and support.

2020 – Present

Providing Supervision at Different NGOs and Companies

Developed skills in managing diverse teams and addressing varied psychological needs in different organisational contexts.

Public Speaking and Training

2015 – Present
A male speaker presenting on mental health at a TEDx event, with a slide in the background titled "Impact Sex Scene" and an image of a shattered heart on a scale.

Matthew Delivering a TEDx Talk

A professional speaker at TEDx University of Malta addressing mental health topics during a presentation, with visual aids about human emotions and relationship issues displayed behind him.

University of Malta TEDx

Enhanced public speaking skills and the ability to communicate complex psychological concepts to a broad audience.

Full TEDx talk below:

Lecturing

Lecturing at Degree, Masters, and PhD levels in Ireland, Lithuania, and Malta

Learned to effectively teach and engage with students at various levels of higher education.

Training and Coaching

Active discussion in a community mental health workshop, highlighting support, engagement, and education on personal growth and resilience.

2018 in Guatemala

A diverse group participates in a mental health seminar focused on emotional well-being and community support, led by facilitators.

Delivered training in Guatemala, Azerbaijan, the UK, Ireland, Hungary, and Cambodia, Coaching managers and professionals in public speaking.

Developed a global perspective on psychological issues and effective training methods for diverse audiences.

Consultancy and Advisory Roles

2012 – 2024
Image of a logo for Dar Għuzeppa Debono, featuring stylized silhouettes of a family, reflecting community support and respect for religious traditions, emphasizing personal growth and cultural values in mental health.

Dar Gużeppa Debono

Family of three standing together, representing unity, support, and the importance of mental health awareness for families.

Executive Board Member & Chair

Dar Ġużeppa Debono

Gained governance experience and insights into organisational psychology and leadership.

2020 – 2023

The Malta Chamber Of Commerce

Learned to integrate psychological principles into health and wellness policies at a national level.

2021 – 2022

Consultant on Technical Committees

Consultant on technical committees for prostitution/sex work reform and human trafficking, Ministry for Justice, Equality and Governance

Developed expertise in policy development and the psychological aspects of legal and social reforms.

2024 – 2026

The Malta Chamber Of Commerce

Strengthened leadership skills and the ability to influence public health initiatives.

Professional Experience

2011

"Logo for Wiliness focusing on family, sex, and health, with a minimalistic design in light blue and gray colors.".

Willingness Team

Calm and inviting logo representing support in family, intimacy, and health-related matters.

Willingness Team

Founded the Willingness Team, the first-ever multidisciplinary group of private practitioners in Malta, to provide comprehensive mental health services.

2012 – Present
Sex therapy clinic logo by Willingness, offering compassionate sexual health and mental wellness services to promote healthier relationships and personal growth.

Sex Clinic Malta

A professional logo for a sexual health and wellness clinic emphasizing openness and support.

Lead Clinician at Sex Clinic Malta

Launched the first-ever Sex Clinic in Malta, focusing on providing specialised services in sexual health and therapy.

Specialised in managing complex cases and interdisciplinary collaboration to provide comprehensive care.

Hope Fertility & IVF logo with a colorful globe, representing diversity and inclusivity in reproductive health services.

Hope Fertility & IVF

A professional logo for Hope Fertility & IVF emphasizing hope, support, and international inclusivity in fertility and IVF treatments.

Fertility Counselling at Hope IVF and Fertility Clinic

Learned the psychological impacts of fertility issues and developed supportive counselling techniques.

2014

Heart-shaped logo with a minimalist design and the words "pleasure Malta" below in bold black font reflecting a focus on emotional well-being and personal growth.

Pleasure Malta

A modern and inviting logo featuring a heart symbol combined with the words "pleasure Malta," representing a commitment to emotional health, personal development, and holistic wellness in Malta.

Pleasure Malta

Launched Pleasure Malta, a safe space where couples and individuals can purchase high-quality sex toys and sex aids to enhance their sex lives.

2015

Therapy clinic entrance, mental health support, professional counseling services, therapeutic environment, mental wellness clinic building, mental health care facility, psychological support center, mental health clinic exterior, mental health therapy practice, counseling and therapy services, mental wellness support, confidential mental health services, calming clinic entrance, mental health help location, mental health treatment facility, compassionate mental health care, mental health and wellness clinic, psychological therapy practice, clinic for mental health support, mental health resources.

Willingness Clinic

A modern mental health clinic's exterior with a glass entrance door and lush plants, dedicated to supporting mental wellness and personal development.

Willingness Clinic

Opened the Willingness Clinic to provide a dedicated space for freelancers at the Willingness Team, fostering a collaborative environment for mental health professionals.

2018

Childminders & Chat Bar

Founded Childminders Malta, addressing the need for quality childminding services.

Launched Chat Bar, inspired by his festival days, providing a safe space for festival-goers to relax and engage.

2019

Inner circle with icons representing growth, mental health, connection, and creativity, and the text "Camp Willingness" in blue, on a white background, promoting mental health and personal development activities.

Camp Willingness

camp Willingness

Started Camp Willingness, a unique initiative aimed at providing therapeutic and developmental experiences in a camp setting.

2021

Health Clinic Malta & The Solutionists

Launched Health Clinic Malta, expanding his healthcare services.

Also started The Solutionists, a collaboration in which marketing and psychology come together to offer solutions related to PR issues and other challenges.

2022

Health Clinic Malta Expansion

Continued the expansion of Health Clinic Malta, enhancing the range of services offered.

2024

Trauma clinic logo with purple and blue text on a light background, emphasizing mental health support and trauma recovery services.

Trauma Clinic

A professional logo design for TRAUMACLINC by Willingness, focusing on mental health, trauma healing, and emotional well-being.

Trauma Clinic Malta

Founded Trauma Clinic Malta, addressing the need for a specialised clinic dealing with trauma in an evidence-based way, reinforcing his commitment to mental health services in Malta.

Education Experience

2010 – Present
  • Leading Bachelor’s Degree in Psychological Therapies and Master in Health Psychology – Gained experience in curriculum development and educational leadership.

  • Employability Skills teacher at HMP Young Offender Institution, Wetherby, UK – Learned the importance of vocational training and psychological support in rehabilitation.

  • Ran workshops about sexuality for young sexual offenders, including those with pedophilic (attraction to prepubescent children) tendencies, rapists, and other sexual deviants.

  • Taught entrepreneurial and social skills to inmates convicted of murder, manslaughter, and drug-related crimes.

  • Worked at the Keppel Unit, a pilot project housing the 50 most vulnerable inmates from all over the UK, aged 13 to 18.

Publications

2008 – 2021