Frequently Asked Questions
Before starting therapy
1 / How do I know if therapy is right for me?
You don't need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many people come to therapy because they're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply want to better understand themselves and their relationships. Others are navigating life transitions, stress, burnout, or the impact of difficult past experiences.
If something has been weighing on you for a while—or you find yourself thinking, "I'm coping, but I'm not really thriving"—therapy may be a helpful place to start.
2 / Do I need a diagnosis?
No.
Many people who come to therapy have never received a mental health diagnosis, and many never will. Therapy isn't only for mental illness—it's also a place to explore life challenges, relationships, identity, emotional wellbeing, and personal growth.
3 / I've never been to therapy before. What should I expect?
Many of my clients are coming to therapy for the first time.
It's completely normal to feel unsure about what to expect or to worry about saying the "right" thing. There isn't a right way to begin. Some people arrive with a very clear goal, while others simply know that something doesn't feel quite right.
We'll start wherever you are.
4 / How do I know if you're the right therapist?
Finding the right therapist is important. Research consistently shows that the relationship between therapist and client is one of the strongest predictors of successful therapy.
Our first conversation is an opportunity for both of us to decide whether working together feels like a good fit. You're welcome to ask questions about my approach, and there is no obligation to continue if it doesn't feel right.
About therapy
1 / What happens during the first session?
The first session is about getting to know one another.
We'll talk about what has brought you to therapy, what's happening in your life at the moment, and what you hope will be different. I'll also ask about your background, previous experiences with therapy (if any), and other information that helps me understand the bigger picture.
Together we'll begin developing an understanding of your situation and discuss what therapy might look like moving forward.
2 / What happens during a therapy session?
Every session is different because every person is different.
Some sessions involve exploring thoughts and emotions, while others focus on relationships, coping strategies, difficult experiences, or current challenges. Sometimes we'll spend time making sense of patterns that have developed over many years; other times we'll focus on practical ways to manage what's happening right now.
Therapy is a collaborative process, and we'll regularly reflect on what's most helpful for you.
3 / How long does therapy usually last?
There isn't a single answer to this.
Some people come for a few sessions to work through a specific issue, while others choose longer-term therapy to explore deeper patterns or ongoing challenges.
We'll regularly review how therapy is progressing and decide together what feels most helpful.
4 / What if I don't know what to talk about?
That's completely okay.
Many people worry they'll arrive with nothing to say or that they won't know where to begin. Part of my role is helping you explore what's important, even if it feels difficult to put into words.
You don't need to prepare for therapy.
5 / What if I feel uncomfortable talking about certain things?
That's very normal.
Trust develops over time, and there is never any expectation that you have to discuss something before you're ready.
We'll work at a pace that feels manageable, and you are always free to tell me if something feels too difficult, too fast, or not quite right.
6 / Will I receive homework between sessions?
Sometimes.
Some people find it helpful to reflect on a question, practise a new skill, or notice certain patterns between sessions. Others prefer to keep the therapeutic work within our meetings.
If homework feels useful, we'll decide together what might be helpful. It is never mandatory.
My approach
1 / What is an integrative therapist?
Being an integrative therapist means I don't believe there is one therapeutic approach that works for everyone.
Instead, I draw from different therapeutic approaches depending on your goals, experiences, and preferences. Together we'll develop an approach that fits you, rather than expecting you to fit a particular model of therapy.
2 / Do I have to do art therapy or creative activities?
Not at all.
Creative approaches are always optional.
Many people work entirely through conversation. Others find that drawing, imagery, sandplay, or creative activities help them explore experiences that are difficult to express with words.
We'll decide together what feels most helpful. There is no expectation that you need to be artistic or creative.
3 / What is parts work (IFS-informed)?
Many people experience different "parts" of themselves. For example, one part may want to move forward, while another feels anxious, critical, or protective.
Parts work helps us understand these different aspects of ourselves with curiosity rather than judgement. I draw on Internal Family Systems (IFS) principles when they feel appropriate, while adapting the work to each individual.
4 / Do you offer EMDR?
I may incorporate EMDR-informed techniques when they are appropriate for the work we're doing together.
If you're specifically looking for EMDR therapy, we can discuss whether my approach is suitable for your needs or whether a referral to a fully accredited EMDR practitioner would be more appropriate.
Practical questions
1 / Do you offer online therapy?
Yes.
I offer both in-person sessions in Utrecht and online therapy for clients throughout the Netherlands.
2 / Can I switch between online and in-person sessions?
Yes, in many cases.
Some clients prefer to meet in person most of the time but occasionally switch to online sessions when needed. We'll discuss what works best for you.
3 / How much does therapy cost?
Individual therapy sessions are €85 for a 60-minute session.
A limited number of reduced-fee appointments may be available. If cost is a concern, please feel free to mention this when you get in touch.
4 / Do you accept insurance?
I don't work directly with insurance companies.
Depending on your supplementary insurance policy, you may be able to receive partial reimbursement. I can provide invoices or documentation to support your claim, but reimbursement arrangements are handled directly between you and your insurer.
5 / What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, I ask that you let me know at least 24 hours in advance.
Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice, as well as missed appointments, are charged at the full session fee.
6 / Is therapy confidential?
Yes.
Everything discussed during therapy is confidential, with a small number of legal and ethical exceptions, such as situations where there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or someone else.
We'll discuss confidentiality during our first meeting so you know exactly what to expect.
Contact me
Have another question? Let me know