Hello, I'm Jan!

Let me introduce myself...

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From an early age, I was curious about the world around me and questioned everything I saw. That search led me to study philosophy, and later to my work as a therapist and trainer. Today, I support individuals and organizations with their questions, challenges, and aspirations.
 

In my own life, I found support in connection with others and in various wisdom traditions. Philosophy, mindfulness, Buddhism, and Gestalt therapy have become the guiding threads that continue to inspire me. They have taught me that awareness begins in the here and now, and that the body is an important compass: by listening to inner signals, much suffering can be prevented.
 

In 2022, I founded Kentauros, a space where therapy, ethics, and organizational development meet. The name refers to the Centaur (Greek: Kentauros), the mythical being that unites body and mind, instinct and reflection. For me, Kentauros symbolizes the essence of Gestalt therapy: the movement toward wholeness through the integration of our different dimensions: rational and emotional, personal and relational, individual and systemic. In my work with individuals, teams, and organizations, I explore how awareness, embodiment, and ethical reflection can strengthen one another.

At the same time, I am deeply aware of the broader context in which we live. We are not isolated individuals but part of a complex web of people, cultures, and nature. From this perspective, I recognize how systemic patterns and historical forms of oppression (such as colonialism, war, sexism, racism, and homophobia) continue to shape our present. Our loss of connection with nature and the destruction of ecosystems ultimately harms not only the earth, but also ourselves.

And yet, I remain an optimist. I believe that through awareness of our bodies, our emotions, and the values that surround us, healing and new choices are possible. From this conviction, I have been volunteering for the LGBTQIA+ community for many years, and I contribute to the EAGT Committee on Climate and Biodiversity.
 

I believe that change begins with attention: to your body, your emotions, and the patterns that guide your life. In therapy, we take this journey together, step by step, so that you can experience more calm, clarity, and connection.

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Education, certification and work experience​

• Gestalt Therapist (NSG Academy) – completed professional training in Gestalt therapy (EAPTI: European Accredited Psychotherapy Training Institute).

• Member of NVAGT and EAGT – as a member of the NVAGT (Dutch-Flemish Association for Gestalt Therapy and Gestalt Theory) and the EAGT (European Association for Gestalt Therapy), I meet international quality and continuing education standards. This ensures professional accountability, quality assurance, and ethical safeguards for clients.

• PSBK Certification (CPION-accredited) – recognized training in psychiatry, psychology, somatics, and DSM diagnostics, to work responsibly with a wide range of issues.

• Extensive experience in individual therapy and counseling – supporting awareness, breaking through limiting patterns, and deepening relationships.

• Academic background (MA in Philosophy) – master’s degree with a focus on ethics and existential questions, integrating both Western and Eastern traditions into my therapeutic work.

• Training in mindfulness and body-oriented awareness – supporting clients in cultivating presence, self-awareness, and balance in the here and now.

• Specialization in existential and GSDR-themes – experience working with clients facing existential concerns (loneliness, meaning, loss) and GSRD-related questions (gender, sexuality, relationships, shame).