More About Me

 

​Before working as a professional coach, I've worked for multinationals in management and as an innovation expert, advising decision makers up to board level, both as an employee and freelancer. More recently, I have co-founded and managed a fast-moving software technology start-up in Berlin in the solar industry, called Solytic. And to be complete, I started my professional career as a petty officer in the Royal Dutch Navy, at age 19, spending the first six years of my professional life at sea. 

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​Change has always been an important topic in my life. After my navy years I studied and I became an innovation professional, now for more than 15 years. Next to the technological, regulatory and financial prerequisites of innovation, I’ve have always had a specific interest in the human factor and the psychology of change. This love for the human element in change is, I believe, what has brought me to become a professional coach. 

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During my career, I was able to improve and expand my skill set in various organizational structures and cultures, from the complex dynamics of a corporate career, to the entrepreneurial side of being self-employed for many years, to an exiting but equally demanding fast moving Berlin-based start-up. I’ve had the pleasure to start several companies in multiple countries and I have gained valuable insights as an entrepreneur and expat. 

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I believe my professional and life experience can assist me to understand your professional situation better, which in turn helps me to support you with your desire to expand your professional and personal skill set, or help guide you through career and life choices or support you with setting up your own business.

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Being from the Netherlands originally, I have lived and worked in different countries across different continents and I personally know the challenges of living and working in a country that is not your own. My home town has been Berlin now for the last 8 years.

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My Approach

It can be quite a challenge to find support for challenges we face in our professional and private lives. Metaphorically speaking, it can seem like you are staring through a microscope at your problem. You know every detail of the issue, but lack the resources to solve it and move on. A coach listens without prejudice and can look at your problem from over your shoulder. A coach can create some distance and offer alternative perspectives.

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A coach is, simply put, a tool to assist you in your way forward. Coaching is future- and solution-oriented and therefore a perfect fit for career change, personal growth or making tough decisions. Coaching can also be very useful to stay mentally strong.

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My coaching style has been influenced by the systemic coaching approach and I truly love the practicality of NLP coaching methods. My style is down-to-earth, analytical and supportive and is based on equality between you and me. 

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English, German & Dutch speaking Coach

We can speak English, German and Dutch during sessions, depending on whatever languages you feel comfortable with.

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Coaching forms

I offer face to face private sessions, online sessions and Walk & Talk options. Circumstances sometimes prevent us to meet in person, but we will always find a way to talk and a solution that suits your preference and schedule. And the first intake is usually scheduled within 24 hours after contacting me. Just send me a WhatsApp! (click here for phone number)

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Coaching Qualifications

• Certified Coaching Practitioner, ICM. This education has the European Quality Award standard accredited by the European Mentoring & Coaching Council (EMCC) and Dutch Association of Professional Coaches (NOBCO)

• Over 400 session hours of coaching experience in the areas of career development, entrepreneurial and life coaching

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-Coach (ACT)

• Communications BA-degree, Amsterdam University of Applied Science

• NLP, Transactional Analysis & Systemic Coaching foundation