	Esther David Ricardostraat 318 1066LH Amsterdam
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German | English

✓ I also offer online therapy

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Esther | Psychologist

Introduction

Many of the people I work with sense that something in their life is not quite right, even if they cannot fully name it yet. They often function well on the outside, while internally feeling exhausted, disconnected, or caught in patterns that no longer feel true to them. In our work, we take the time to slow down and explore what is going on beneath the surface, without rushing into quick solutions.

My approach is grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I support you in understanding your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in context, while also creating space for change. This includes working with unhelpful patterns, but also reconnecting with what truly matters to you and how you want to relate to yourself and others.

A central part of my work is the focus on relationships and attachment. Many difficulties become visible in how we experience closeness, boundaries, and self worth. Together, we can explore these patterns and develop a more stable and understanding way of relating, both to yourself and to others.

I have experience supporting people with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism spectrum related topics, as well as more general feelings of dissatisfaction or lack of direction. You do not need a diagnosis to seek support. Often, a sense that something needs to change is already enough.

My work is not about self optimization, but about developing a more honest and compassionate relationship with yourself, and making choices that feel sustainable over time.

I have a multicultural background and have lived in different countries. I understand how complex it can be to navigate identity, expectations, and belonging, especially when living outside the majority culture. I work in a diversity affirming and LGBTQIA inclusive way and aim to create a space where all identities are welcome and respected.

My aim is to support you in building a life that does not only function, but feels genuinely worth living, in a way that is aligned with who you are.

Online therapy

I use Google Meet as a meeting tool. The invoice is sent after every session and you can pay for it online (bank transfer, credit card or paypal).

Qualifications and registrations

Acceptance and Commitment Therapist
Psycholoog NIP (Nederlands Instituut van Psychologen)
LOGO Verklaring (Landelijke Overleggen van de Geestelijke Gezondheidsopleidingen)
MSc Clinical and Developmental Psychology
BSc Psychology

I offer therapy in

✓ German

✓ English

Specialisations

1. Anxiety
2. Depression
3. Burnout
4. Autism
5. Racist Trauma
6. Intercultural Identity
7. Emotion Regulation
8. Relationships and Attachment
9. Family Relationships
10. ADHD

Specialisations and Expertises

I work with adults and adolescents, many of whom are living in a country that is not their own. Alongside this, I support clients with a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, stress, emotional regulation difficulties, low self esteem, ADHD, autism spectrum related topics, and challenges in relationships.

A common theme in my work is the experience of functioning on the outside while feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or uncertain internally. This can show up in different ways, such as ongoing stress, difficulties in relationships, or a sense of not fully understanding oneself.

My approach is structured and goal oriented. After an initial session, we usually develop a shared understanding of your situation and create a plan for how to move forward. Depending on your needs, this may include working on specific difficulties, developing new strategies, or exploring underlying patterns in more depth.

While I can support diagnostic processes when needed, therapy does not require a formal diagnosis. Many concerns can be addressed effectively by focusing on current patterns, experiences, and goals.

The duration and frequency of sessions are flexible and tailored to your situation. Some clients come for short term support focused on a specific issue, while others prefer longer term work. Together, we decide on a pace and structure that feels appropriate and sustainable.

Most common issues I support people with:

Depressed mood
Feeling low, exhausted, or disconnected from life, even when things seem to be “fine” on the outside. This can include a loss of direction, lack of energy, or a sense that life no longer feels meaningful.

Anxiety, stress, and emotional overwhelm
Persistent worry, overthinking, or difficulty switching off. Many clients experience high internal pressure, strong emotional reactions, or struggle to regulate their feelings in everyday situations.

Relationship difficulties and attachment patterns
Challenges in romantic relationships, friendships, or family dynamics. This can include fear of closeness, difficulty setting boundaries, or repeating patterns that feel hard to change.

ADHD, autism, and neurodivergence related challenges
Difficulties with focus, structure, emotional regulation, or feeling different from others. I support clients in understanding their patterns and developing ways to work with them, rather than against them.
Identity, self esteem, or cultural belonging
Questions around who you are, what you want, and where you belong. This can include low self worth, inner conflict, or feeling out of place, especially when living between cultures or navigating life in a country that is not your own.

Therapies offered

Areas of counselling I can help with

Fees

Individual session (50 minutes): €85
Short session (30 minutes): €40
Introductory session (45 minutes): €50

I offer both short term and longer term support, depending on your needs and goals. The frequency of sessions can be discussed individually and adjusted over time.

If you are currently in a difficult financial situation, feel free to reach out. In some cases, reduced rates may be possible.

All sessions are offered online. Payment is made privately.

Availability (Opening hours)

Monday	16:30-20:00
Tuesday	13:30-20:00
Wednesday	9:30-20:00
Thursday	16:30-20:00
Friday	15:00-19:00
Saturday	-
Sunday	-