Carla Zijlstra

How I Work

I'm interested in listening to your story and understanding what drives you. How has your life evolved through different circumstances? How have your unique abilities shaped where you are now? There are many ways to move forward after a difficult time, and finding a personally motivated path is often the most achievable and fulfilling.

You will have time to share what's important, reflect and pause. You can be yourself — vulnerable and honest — and I will ask questions to understand your thoughts and feelings. Together we explore your strengths, motivations and ways to move forward, supporting you through the decisions or processes you face.

We may use a genogram to discuss your origins and upbringing, exploring how these influences shape you today. Often, our current responses are shaped by how we were raised and where we grew up. If you feel stuck, we can do some relaxing stretches or go for a short walk outside. Nature can sometimes bring perspective and distance from your thoughts.

My client-centred therapy sessions draw on frameworks such as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Positive Psychology and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

You are most welcome to come for an introductory session, and we can decide together how you would like to continue.