Psychologist Leiden
Website of Sonja Schalken
In Edinburgh, I immersed myself in language studies for four intensive years, emerging as a proficient interpreter in English and Spanish. Following this, I embarked on a fulfilling career spanning over three decades, teaching English and French in both Secondary and Higher Education settings across the vibrant city.
Inspired by a lifelong fascination with human behavior, I pursued a comprehensive four-year study in psychology. Alongside this, I delved into specialized training in cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused approaches, honing my skills in helping individuals navigate life's challenges.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in practicality, blending evidence-based techniques with a compassionate understanding of each individual's unique journey. Guiding clients through moments of self-discovery, I strive to empower them with the tools and insights needed to navigate life's twists and turns with confidence and resilience.
A few keywords that would describe both me personally and my approach to therapy: empathetic, passionate, fantasy, humor, result-oriented, very sporty, enthusiastic, intuitive, sensitive, depth, thinking about clients and their problems, hard working.
You really are. I look forward to hearing from you!
"Taking the first step towards therapy might be hard, but also very important. Finding a good therapist might also not be easy, but in my case I was lucky. I believe that having a good connection with the therapist is essential, as well as being able to build trust and mutual understanding.
Sonja puts a lot of effort into her work, she makes sure her patients feel welcome and in good hands. She creates a safe environment that allows the sessions to be efficient. Among her strengths is to adapt to the state of the patient and adjust each session correctly. No matter the topic, our conversations come naturally, and by the end everything seems clear. She helps me understand why I feel certain ways as well as suggest ways to make me feel better.
I have visited Sonja for nearly six months now, but I could feel the results already after a few first sessions. Mental health recovery is a long process and it requires time and care, but it will be worth it. I trust her and the process and I am especially motivated as I can see the progress. I believe Sonja will be a great choice for many other patients like me.
~ George (07/2025)
