Welcome to Calming Minds I offer a calm space for you to express feelings, navigate challenges, and receive dedicated support, specialising in English-speaking clients.
I am a counsellor and coach with a unique blend of professional expertise and personal experience in parenting. As a parent myself to an autistic teenager, I understand firsthand the rewards and complexities that come with raising a neurodivergent child. Navigating this journey has enriched my understanding and compassion for other parents facing similar challenges.
I also know what it’s like to adapt to parenting far from home. After giving birth in a country different from my own, I had to adjust to new cultural norms and overcome language barriers. These experiences taught me resilience, patience, and the power of self-belief—all qualities I’m passionate about helping other parents develop.
I provide personalised support that recognises and respects each family’s unique story. Whether you’re transitioning from couplehood to parenthood, building self-confidence, or navigating the challenges of a neurodivergent diagnosis, I’m here to help you find your way with empathy and evidence-based guidance.
Embarking on a different professional journey after a 30-year career in education, I trained to be a counsellor and coach. This training offered a positive focus during a challenging period and provided valuable time and techniques for inward reflection.
Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, transitions, communication issues, burnout, or seeking support for your child, Calming Minds provides empathetic guidance and proven techniques to help you move forward in life.
2023 - current - Private Practice NFG Registered Counsellor and Coach face-to-face and online therapeutic work with adults. 2000- current teacher at the International School of Amsterdam - responsible for academic learning and emotional wellbeing of all the students in my care.
2025 - Diploma in Child and Adolescent Counselling (Level 4) 2024 - VPMW Registration Nederlandse Federatie Gezondheidszorg (NFG). 2024 - Solros Positive Peer Coach 2024 - Mental Health First Aid 2024 - CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) Coach Practitioner 2023 - Bachelor level Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Coaching, Academy for Coaching and Counselling. NL (Personal Health and Wellbeing) 2023 - Bachelor level Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Coaching, Academy for Coaching and Counselling. NL 2023 Baby Mindful (0-18 months) 2022 Child Protection Refresher for International Schools 2022 Relax Kids – Charge Up (ages 11+) 2021 National Autistic Society (UK) CPD Understanding Autism Autism and Communication Autism and Sensory Experience Autism: Supporting Families Autism: Stress and Anxiety Women and Girls on the Autism spectrum 2020 Relax Kids (ages 3+) 2020 Non-Violent Communication – Connecting With Children 1994 - BEd. Honours in Education, Manchester Metropolitan University.