Psychologist

Hester Brakel

Perfectionism
Work-life-balance
Work stress
Parenting
Career

Hester is a psychologist with a background in work and organisational psychology. Her perspective on personal development has been shaped by both her professional experience and her own life journey, including becoming a mother and moving abroad. These experiences deepened her understanding of change, identity, and the importance of balance and self-compassion.

Originally from the Netherlands and now living abroad with her family, Hester brings an open and culturally sensitive perspective to her work. She enjoys connecting with people from different backgrounds and values learning from diverse perspectives.

She supports clients with themes such as stress, perfectionism, work-life balance, parenting, and career development. Hester helps people gain clarity, navigate transitions, and move forward in a way that feels aligned with who they are and what matters most to them.

Portrait of Hester Brakel, Psychologist

About Hester

Educational background

  • MSc Work and Organisational Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Preferred therapeutic approach

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Solution-focused Coaching and Counseling
Positive Psychology

Working style

Hester’s coaching style is balanced: both pragmatic and people-centered. She combines a structured, goal-oriented approach with genuine attention to the person behind the question. Creating psychological safety and a sense of connection is central to her work, while also keeping sessions focused and purposeful. She works collaboratively with clients to clarify their goals and explore patterns, strengths, and challenges. Her approach is flexible and adapts to what is needed in the moment, while maintaining a clear direction. Clients appreciate her ability to combine structure with empathy, helping them gain insight while also moving toward practical and meaningful change.

“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.” — Jon Kabat-Zinn
Hester Brakel
A woman with shoulder-length light brown hair smiles at the camera. She is wearing a black top with a blurred light background and a green plant visible behind her.