Here are a few numbers that tell the story behind why I do what I do and why helping others live healthier feels so personal to me.
I studied Psychology at Leiden University, where I completed both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees with a specialization in Health and Medical Psychology. In addition to my academic background, I’ve completed several courses in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, including one with Russ Harris, one of the most respected ACT trainers worldwide, and a four-day in-person ACT BootCamp led by Steven C. Hayes, the co-founder of ACT himself. But, I’m nowhere near done learning. I continue to read, listen to podcasts, and stay up to date with the ever-evolving world of research, psychology, and ACT.
During my studies, I completed a supervised internship at Leiden University, where I had the chance to work with clients and put theory into practice. Since then, I’ve continued gaining experience by volunteering with two international organizations. At a Dutch helpline, I support callers with mental health concerns and offer individual sessions to LGBTQ+ people who recently arrived in the Netherlands as refugees. I also volunteer for a Spanish organization, where I provide psychological support to people rebuilding their lives in a new country.
When I’m not working, you’ll probably find me drumming to Hozier and pissing off my neighbors, biking around in search of sunsets, or planning a trip to somewhere off the radar. I love deep conversations, long walks with no destination, and experimenting in the kitchen with whatever’s in the fridge. Running clears my head, even though I’m still very much a beginner. I’ve always been curious about why we do what we do and how we can do more of what actually matters. I try to live what I teach by staying flexible, letting go of perfection, and choosing a life that feels meaningful rather than just perfect or productive.
This section is dedicated to the other character in the photo, my dog Füstike. She was rescued from Hungary and is slowly but surely leaving her dino era behind as she grows into adulthood. She sighs like she carries the weight of the world, puts everything in her mouth just to check if it’s edible, and won’t start eating until she’s given paw. She might weigh 17 kilos, but she’ll run for her life if a smaller dog barks at her. She’s also notoriously fond of joining my Zoom sessions so don’t be surprised if she makes an appearance.