Psychologist

 For (inner) peace, freedom, and self-compassion. 

Are you empathic?

Are you the one who cares for everyone, senses what they need, and keeps everything running smoothly?

It shows you are strong. Empathic. Patient. You are deeply understanding of everyone. And you are likely the one others leans on emotionally.

But perhaps you have become so used to adapting, caring and putting the needs of others first, that at times you don't quite know what your own needs or desires are anymore.

And from the outside, everything might look perfectly fine. Because you function so well.
But on the inside, you may yearn for more calm, inner peace and relaxation.

If that resonates with you, you are in the right place.

When attuning to others demands too much

You are probably reading this because you're experiencing some problems or complaints right now. Possible complaints with the above image may include:

  • Taking on responsibility for the feelings of others. (As you don't want them to feel hurt etc.)
  • You might stay silent at times just to keep the peace.
  • You might have difficulty setting boundaries, out of fear of conflict.
  • At times you can't name your own needs and boundaries anymore.
  • You might have a powerful 'inner critic' (being stern with yourself).
  • When someone shifts in energy, you might worry about having said something to upset them.
  • You might feel guilt or panic when you set boundaries that upset others.

    This may lead to

  • Burnout
  • Perfectionism and fear of failure.
  • Unexplained physical tension.
  • Fear and phobias.

Reconnecting with yourself

The way out of 'fawning' (to be overly attuned to others) does not require working harder. It requires understanding that this was once the only option. And finding out what you truly need yourself.

And I believe you can do this: find your way back to yourself, feel the same empathy and compassion for yourself that you grant to others, and thus evolve into who you truly are. You would allow yourself to live more from the heart—both toward yourself and the world around you—leaving behind panic, guilt, and inner turmoil.

This will be empowering you to consciously and calmly design your own life with compassion, in a way that truly aligns with who you are.

Below you can see an overview of how I could guide you on your path. Treatments are reimbursed in whole or in part from your supplementary health insurance. See rates for more info.

Video calling / Online therapy

Online therapy doesn't have to feel distant at all. Together, we will create a warm safe space. All you need is a comfortable and cosy place at home and a warm cup of tea or coffee. And maybe a notebook. The depth and sincerity of our connection will be the same as when you sit across me in my practice.

Sometimes I have a short waiting list.
I am available for sessions on Fridays and Saturdays.

Do you want to make direct contact or consult? I really like to hear from you:

How I can guide you here

What others shared

Google
Menno van Luijn profile picture
Menno van Luijn
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verified that the original source of the review is Google.
Michelle is the TA (Transactional Analysis) specialist who has helped me incredibly much. It has been a few years now since Michelle truly helped me move forward at a point in my life where I was stuck. And to this day, it remains a real and very positive life-changer! Later in the process, we also successfully completed EMDR together, during which I was guided in a highly professional manner. A heartfelt recommendation...
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Paulien van Luijn profile picture
Paulien van Luijn
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verified that the original source of the review is Google.
Michelle is a very warm and dedicated psychologist who is truly by your side. She listens well, communicates clearly, and quickly gets to the heart of the matter. Together, you create a concrete plan so you know exactly what you are working on. No unnecessarily long processes, but goal-oriented and effective. Highly recommended. — Paulien
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Kirsten Folkersma profile picture
Kirsten Folkersma
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verified that the original source of the review is Google.
Michelle helped me learn to listen to my body and my feelings again. Her warmth, purity, and genuine involvement ensured that—despite the tension I felt entering the sessions at first—I felt increasingly safe and could slowly open up. Through her guidance and transactional analysis, I was able to reconnect with my inner child and learned to make choices from my adult self that are good for me. My boyfriend also joined the sessions regularly, which was incredibly valuable not only for me, but for us as a couple. I admire the way Michelle not only guides others, but also how she lives her own life. Thanks to her, I live closer to myself and finally give my feelings the space they have always deserved. I wish everyone could have someone like Michelle by their side. Every word meant from the heart ❤️

Rates

Complete or partial reimbursement through the supplementary (aanvullende) health care package in The Netherlands.
Click on 'Prices' for more information.