Therapist

I have long admired how we humans can grow and develop in the midst of challenging life experiences. As a psychotherapist, I feel privileged to be able to help people to master their difficulties through making contact with strengths and resources, both in themselves and in their environment.

After I finished my Master’s degree in clinical psychology and pedagogic psychology in Switzerland, I completed additional training in systemic psychotherapy. I have worked with a wide range of clients, including those suffering from anxiety, panic attacks, depression, burnout, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and eating disorders. This work occurred in various settings, including individual, couples, and family therapy. In addition to working with clients, I train students and therapists on topics such as systemic psychotherapy, resilience, and burnout at different institutes, such as PPO Opleidingen Groningen and the Rijksuniversity of Groningen, RUG.

As a systemic therapist, I view psychological problems as relational, as an interaction between individuals and their contexts. These interactions are crucial for building up and maintaining as well as overcoming problematic psychological and behavioral patterns. A systemic approach can be especially useful for us internationals, as we navigate the challenges of new social and cultural circumstances. In addition to my systemic background, I am experienced in working with cognitive-behavioral techniques and different methods such as genogram work, timeline, and gestalt approaches. I aim for an evidence-based approach and work to keep myself updated on the newest research insights. One important perspective in my work is that it is deeply collaborative – I believe working together is an essential ingredient in finding creative and positive solutions. Another important perspective is that I understand problems not only as obstacles to overcome but also as invitations to grow and adapt in new ways.

I grew up in Switzerland and am married to an American. We have two daughters. We first lived in Switzerland, then in the U.S., and have been in the Netherlands for the last 12 years. All of this means that I have some understanding regarding how it feels to live in a foreign culture, including all of the many challenges and opportunities that comes with a life as an international.