The 5 Best Psychotherapists in Amsterdam to Help You Work Through Life’s Challenges
A close friend of mine hit a wall here in Amsterdam. To everyone else, she was thriving: good job and somehow balancing a social life that made mine look lazy.
But behind the scenes, stress was mounting, and sleep was impossible. She tried the usual fixes—less caffeine, extra workouts, even weekends away—but nothing worked.
What she really needed was someone who could help her untangle it all, but finding the right professional felt like a full-time job. After seeing her struggle, I realized just how tough it can be to get real help.
So I did what any friend would do: I researched and put together a list of the best psychotherapists in Amsterdam. And since she’s not the only one who’s felt stuck, I’m sharing it here—just in case it helps you (or someone you care about) too.
How much do psychotherapists usually charge in Amsterdam?
Psychotherapists in Amsterdam typically charge between €90 and €193.50 per session. Some private sessions may go up to €250, with possible partial reimbursement available through Dutch health insurance.
1. Counseling Amsterdam
Address: Singel 60-2, 1015 AB
Contact Details: +31 20 244 5292
Operating Hours:
- Monday, Tuesday, and Friday – 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Wednesday – 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM
- Thursday – 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM
- Saturday – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Sunday – Closed
Counseling Amsterdam takes a comprehensive brain-and-body approach to mental health and personal growth.
Instead of relying on traditional talk therapy alone, their team expertly combines psychology, psychomotor therapy, and performance coaching. This gives clients a well-rounded path to well-being.
You can really feel that their focus goes beyond mental health, integrating emotional and physical aspects to help you develop as a whole person.
It’s definitely due to their experts, like Louis Wijdenbosch and Jeannette Bolck, who bring deep experience in life coaching and resilience training.
When I wanted to inquire on behalf of my friend, I found that getting to their office was easy. Their practice is centrally located and just a short walk from public transport, so I’d say it’s pretty convenient.
And while booking an appointment is straightforward, I heard from other clients that the team’s specialized expertise means they can get booked and busy. It’s best to plan if you’re hoping for a specific slot.
Provided evidence-based and effective strategies
“I highly recommend the Resilience Retreat with Counselling Amsterdam. I was seeking practical tools to help me navigate a challenging period, rather than a solely conversational approach, and this retreat delivered exactly that. Louis and Jeannette provided a range of evidence-based, effective strategies that I now incorporate into my daily life. The setting was beautiful, and the retreat struck a well-considered balance between group activities, physical movement, and individual reflection time. Jeannette and Louis facilitated the experience with warmth and a light-hearted touch, fostering a supportive and open group dynamic. Many of us left having formed genuine connections and friendships. For those looking to heal and build lasting resilience in a stunning natural setting, supported by nourishing food and thoughtful, professional facilitators, this retreat offers an enriching and restorative experience.”
– Catriona Woodward, Google Review
Recovered and fred myself from some chronic pains
“I highly recommend a resilience retreat in Portugal with Jeannette and Louis. After this retreat i have recovered and freed myself from some chronic pains i have had for some months. I am now equipped by many tools on how to regulate myself. And mostly i have got the time, space and guidance by Jeannette en Louis in order to know myself beter and to create an awarenance. Thank you so much!”
– Lenka, Google Review
2. Expat Therapist
Address: Karel Doormanstraat 127, 1055 VE
Contact Details: +31 63 422 2153
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Closed
- Tuesday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – Closed
If you’re an expat or international looking for a psychologist who really understands the changes and challenges of living in a new country, Expat Therapist is definitely worth considering.
The practice has built a reputation for offering mental health support that’s not just informed by clinical expertise, but also by a genuine understanding of the cultural shifts, relocation stress, and identity questions that expats often face.
What I appreciate most, both in my own impressions and feedback from others, is how their sessions feel tailored and relevant to real life—never generic.
It’s probably because the approach here is grounded and attentive, taking each person’s background and situation seriously. This makes the sessions feel much more helpful and comfortable, rather than cold or routine.
A recurring downside, though, is scheduling. Because the therapist is in high demand and hours are limited, getting your preferred appointment time can sometimes be tricky and may require a bit of flexibility.
An exceptional therapist who helped me on my journey to self-discovery
“Somesh Valentino is an exceptional therapist who helped me tremendously on my journey to self-discovery. He creates a safe and comfortable atmosphere where one can openly discuss and work through personal issues. His professionalism and compassionate approach make all the difference. I’m very grateful to Somesh Valentino for the invaluable help.”
– Giuseppe Chiesa, Google Review
Manages to challenge and guide you without taking over
“Somesh helped me a lot to revisit several difficult situations and choices, equipping with valuable insights about myself and practical tools for the future. He manages to challenge and guide you without taking over, helping to better recognise emotions and important context at a deeper level, and thus to find more holistic and sustainable approaches. Somesh is very flexible and responsive with scheduling, coordination on any changes was quick and easy via email. The sessions were held in fluent English. I can definitely recommend him to anyone looking for psychology support beyond “feel good” momentarily relief.”
– Alex Myagkov, Google Review
3. Aurore Counseling
Address: Sarphatistraat 14, 1017 WS
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – Closed
Aurore Counseling is known for its welcoming atmosphere, which many newcomers to Amsterdam find especially personal and attentive compared to other options in the city.
The practice mainly focuses on individual counseling, with many clients working through anxiety, stress, and emotional regulation.
This allows the therapists to tailor their approach by paying close attention to your story, helping you explore patterns in your life and how your past might be affecting what you’re dealing with now.
I’ve found that this makes sessions feel genuinely unhurried, which creates a kind of space to let you slow down and really get to the heart of what’s on your mind.
Others who’ve been coming for a while often mention the warmth and professionalism of the counselors, as well as the depth of support they receive. The team is also praised for being responsive and flexible with scheduling.
Just note that Aurore is a private practice and sessions aren’t covered by insurance, so some clients pay out of pocket. Some might find regular counseling to be less affordable.
Helped me navigate far-ranging life events
“The second best decision I made (after electing to go into therapy) was to choose Aurore Counseling. The team is very responsive, and the sessions are tailored to your needs and schedule. My therapist, Hugo, was both knowledgeable and tactful in his guidance and support throughout nearly 2 years. He helped me navigating far-ranging life events and topics such as being an expat, family and work life, as well as one’s physical wellness. Importantly, I could switch between French (my mother tongue) and English (which I mostly use nowadays) and it made a huge difference on how I could approach and learn from the sessions. Today, I am feeling stronger than ever, and keep in mind those valuable discussions and exercises.”
– Emily Ruban, Google Review
The space is beautifully designed and feels like visiting a friend
“Every detail at Aurore feels carefully considered. The space is beautifully designed and feels like visiting a friend in a quiet part of town. The professionals are highly skilled and genuinely supportive, working collaboratively with you throughout the process. I would wholeheartedly recommend Aurore to anyone seeking high-quality counselling in Amsterdam.”
– Elida Karaivanova, Google Review
4. Mental Health Clinic Isabel Henriques
Address: Vondelstraat 11 – E, 1054 GC
Contact Details: +31 61 447 8140
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday – 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Sunday – Closed
Mental Health Clinic is led by Isabel Henriques and her team, all highly qualified with BIG registration (Beroepen in de Individuele Gezondheidszorg).
The clinic offers a wide range of therapies—from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and EMDR to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as schema and psychodynamic methods.
This flexibility definitely makes it easy for them to adapt treatment to different needs, whether you’re seeking individual support or couples therapy.
Even their intake process is thorough, requiring a referral from your Dutch GP and some personalized assessment tests. But this can also be a drawback if you’re hoping to start quickly—especially if you’re unfamiliar with the Dutch healthcare system.
However, I personally found it reassuring. It shows they’re serious about matching you with the right professional, as opposed to just placing you with whoever is available.
Many clients also appreciate the clinic’s supportive atmosphere and attentive staff. One person even remarked on how accessible the clinic feels, noting that online sessions were just as effective as in-person appointments.
A trustworthy professional whom I can share my thoughts with
“I highly recommend Mental Health Clinic, and Dr. Henriques. Very reliable service. I feel very thankful to have found this very safe place, and a trustful professional who I can share my thoughts with. She showed kindness and understanding in my situation. I am pleased with the results and I am going to continue to follow my journey.”
– Francianne Velho, Google Review
I’ve learned a lot from my sessions
“had very pleasant conversations with Andrea. She takes her time and also has a sense of humor, which makes you feel like you’re bridging the gap. I’ve learned a lot from the conversations and feel confident in my future. I also know what to do when I’m not feeling so good, and that gives me peace of mind. Thank you.”
– Mary Jeniffer, Google Review
5. Mindful Psychology Amsterdam
Address: Van Eeghenlaan 27, 1071 EN
Contact Details: +34 65 385 2392
Operating Hours:
- Monday and Wednesday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Tuesday and Thursday – 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Friday – 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – Closed
Mindful Psychology Amsterdam is run by Carmen, who spent years working in medical centers, NGOs, and private practice.
She’s skilled in both psychology and Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT), but what people really know her for is her approachability. She can immediately put you at ease, listens without judgment, and makes even tough topics feel manageable.
What many people love about her sessions is that she always starts by asking what’s on your mind that day.
Then she’ll appropriately blend techniques like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and breathwork depending on what feels right for you.
And before I forget, her range of services is pretty broad, from individual and couples therapy to child-focused sessions and even business performance coaching.
If she sounds like a great fit for you so far, you can meet her in the Van Eeghenlaan office near Vondelpark or online if that’s easier.
The only small drawback is that, as a solo practitioner, there can be a bit of a wait for new clients. However, you always work directly with Carmen, so you benefit from continuity and personalized attention.
Deeply respects and appreciates who you are
“With therapists it can be tough to find someone that deeply respects and appreciates who you are (and helps you celebrate who you are) while also helping you transform into someone better. Through many different modalities – one on one sessions, hypnosis, breathwork, dialogue, etc – Dr Carmen helps me let go of old perspectives and welcome new ones while providing a safe space to really be vulnerable. After each session I have with her, I feel positive and equipped to deal with whatever challenge/struggle I originally came in with. She is a warm, gracious and intelligent woman that encourages both cultivation and provocation of thought and actions. I highly recommend her, thank you Dr Carmen!”
– Talia Mascioli, Google Review
Helped me work through many problems that I couldn’t get past
“Carmen is amazing, she helped to work through many problems that I couldn’t get past. It is so easy to work with you and she has the energy that makes you feel safe to open up. If you’re struggling with things in your life that feels like as much you try, you still keep coming back to the same spot, she can help you :)”
– Teele Ude, Google Review