FAQ · English-speaking psychologist in Amsterdam & online

Everything you might be wondering

Reaching out for support can bring up a lot of questions, and that's completely normal. This FAQ answers the questions people ask me most about working with a psychologist in Amsterdam and online. Can't find yours? Just ask me in the free intro call.

Getting started

6 questions

Do I need a GP referral?

No. You can book directly, with no referral needed.

What happens in the free intro call?

It's a short, relaxed call of about 25 minutes. You tell me a bit about what's going on, we see whether ACTualize feels like a good fit, and you can ask anything you like. There's no commitment.

How do I book the intro call?

Pick whatever time suits you best and book it through Calendly on the contact page. It only takes a minute.

How quickly can I start?

Usually within one week after the intro call.

What happens in the first session?

We get to know each other, talk about what's going on, and set goals together.

I don't live in Amsterdam. Can I still work with you?

Yes. Online sessions are available anywhere in the world, except for the US and Canada due to licensing.

Sessions & costs

5 questions

Is it covered by health insurance?

No. I don't work with insurance companies. That way, we can focus on your goals without diagnostic labels or rigid rules.

How much does a session cost?

Online sessions are €75 and walking sessions are €80. Students pay €50 for either. If cost is a barrier right now, reach out, and we might be able to figure something out.

How do I pay?

You'll receive an invoice before each session. Payment needs to be completed at least 24 hours before the session.

What's your cancellation policy?

Please cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours in advance.

How many sessions will I need?

It depends on you and what you're working on. Sessions are 50 minutes, usually weekly or every two weeks, and we check in regularly on how it's going.

Online & walking

5 questions

Do online sessions work for anxiety?

For many people, yes. Online sessions can work just as well as meeting in person, and they make it easier to start: no commute, and you're in a familiar space.

What is a walking session?

We meet in a park in Amsterdam or a surrounding city and talk while we walk. Many people find it easier to open up side by side, and being outside can help anxious energy settle.

What if it rains?

We'll reschedule or switch to an online session, whichever you prefer.

Can we switch between English and Hungarian?

Yes. Sessions can be in English, Hungarian, or a mix of both, whatever feels most natural to you.

Will Füsti be in our online sessions?

Sometimes! My dog Füsti likes to make the occasional guest appearance. If you'd rather have a dog-free session, for example because of allergies or a fear of dogs, just let me know and she'll stay in another room.

My approach

3 questions

What is ACT, and how is it different from CBT?

Both are evidence-based approaches. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) mainly focuses on changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on changing your relationship with difficult thoughts and feelings, so they have less power over what you do, and on taking steps toward what matters to you. I mainly work with ACT, sometimes combined with tools from CBT. You can read more in What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?

Will I get a diagnosis?

No. We focus on what's going on and what matters to you, not on labels.

Do you prescribe medication?

No. Psychologists don't prescribe medication. If you're considering it, your GP is the right person to talk to.

Anxiety & health anxiety

3 questions

Is health anxiety the same as hypochondria?

Yes. "Hypochondria" is the older (and not so kind) name for it. Today it's usually called health anxiety. You can read more on my (health) anxiety page.

Do I have to stop seeing my doctor?

No. We don't ask you to ignore your body. Your GP stays part of the picture whenever something does need checking.

What if I'm not sure it's anxiety?

That's okay. You don't need a label to reach out. We can explore it together in the free intro call.

Fit & safety

5 questions

Do you work with couples, children or teenagers?

I work with adults, individually.

What don't you work with?

ACTualize isn't the right place for crisis situations, suicidal thoughts, or severe psychological disorders. If that's what you need, I'll help you find the right place.

What if we're not a good fit?

That's okay, and it happens. Just tell me, and I'll help you find someone who suits you better.

Is what I share confidential?

Yes. As a NIP Psychologist®, I follow the NIP code of ethics. Everything you share stays between us, except in the rare situations where the law requires otherwise.

Can you help if I'm in crisis or having thoughts of suicide?

ACTualize isn't set up for crisis care. In a crisis, you deserve help that's available right away, around the clock. If you're having thoughts of suicide, please contact 113 Suicide Prevention: call 113 or 0800-0113 (free, 24/7), or chat at 113.nl. In an emergency, call 112. You can also contact your GP or, in the evening, at night and on weekends, the huisartsenpost.

Hmm, Füsti sniffed everywhere and couldn't find that one.

Just ask me in the free intro call.

Need help right now?

ACTualize isn't the right place for acute crisis or emergencies. In a crisis, you deserve help that's available right away, around the clock. So please don't wait for an intro call. Reach out to:

Still unsure?

That's completely okay. The easiest way to find out if we're a good fit is a free, 25-minute intro call, with no commitment. You can also read more about me or about working together.

  • Free 25-minute intro call
  • Online or walking in Amsterdam
  • English or Hungarian
Book a free intro call  ›