about me

Since we’ll be working together for a while, it’s only fair to introduce myself a little. I am a Dutch national who came to Scotland for its hills, education and never-failing hospitality. My interest in psychotherapy came during my time studying anthropology: I became aware of the role our culture plays in shaping what we feel, and are allowed to feel.

This interest led me to volunteer as a befriender and for mental health helplines. I eventually completed a certificate degree in Interpersonal Dialogue counselling from the University of Edinburgh. I also pursued a postgraduate degree in psychodynamic counselling at Human Development Scotland. The reason for focusing on the psychodynamic approach is both a drive to understand the beginnings of therapy, and recognizing phenomena in my own life. I was driven to seek formal training. I explored psychodynamic thinking deeply through a Masters in Psychoanalytic Studies at Birkbeck, London.

Besides that, I have practiced meditation since the age of 15 to address my own neurodivergence, eventually doing teacher training in Tibetan yoga and extended meditation retreats. I actively continue my study of both contemplation and therapy under supervision.

Professional Credentials

Qualifications:

• Postgraduate Diploma in Psychodynamic Counselling, Human Development Scotland
• MA in Psychoanalytic Studies, Birkbeck, University of London
• Certificate in Interpersonal Dialogue Counselling, University of Edinburgh
• COSCA certificate in counselling skills, GCTC, Glasgow