About me

As a child, I often felt different and alone; within my family of origin, my true essence and qualities were not really seen. For years, I sought ways to belong, to prove myself, or to find a sense of security. Consequently, I developed an adapted self and increasingly retreated into my own head. I struggled to connect with others, both at home and at school. I always felt that something wasn't quite right, though I couldn't quite put my finger on it. When I came out at nineteen, things began to fall into place, and the mask I had worn for years started to crack. I embarked on a journey of personal development that continues to unfold to this day.

After trying various courses of study, I eventually graduated from art school. The creativity I cultivated there has immensely enriched both my life and my work. (You can find a selection of the collages I’ve created over the years on my website.)

In the years following art school, however, I increasingly felt stuck and experienced a sense of stagnation in my life. I couldn't find my place, didn't know what I wanted to do with my life, and eventually suffered burnout. Although I was in a relationship that provided a sense of safety in the world, deep down I felt lost and profoundly lonely.

In my quest to feel better and gain a better grasp on my life, I encountered various approaches to personal development. Psychotherapy, *Zijnsoriëntatie* (a form of non-dual therapy), inner child work, systemic work, shadow work, and tantra were the most significant among them. Through these practices, I learned to slow down, connect with my body, articulate my inner world, and share that inner experience with others. I connected with parts of myself I had tucked away and gained an understanding of how I had become who I am. Bringing parts of myself out of the shadows and into the light! Underlying my journey were feelings of shame and loneliness, but also a deep longing to come home to myself.

The path I have walked myself forms the foundation of my approach.

I know the pain of self-doubt, the feeling of facing things alone, and the fear of not being good enough. At the same time, I know how liberating it is when there is more room for self-compassion, vitality, connection, and trust. I can now say that my personal history has become the driving force behind my growth as a human being.

In addition to my work as a therapist, I facilitate workshops on tantra and personal development, and I work as a tour leader.