Dr. Vanessa Hondius

I am a licensed psychologist with over 15 years of practice, and I work in Parma, Milan and via Skype.
My main aim is to help my clients come to a greater inner awareness.
This depth of awareness can help find answers and implement those changes within, that will lead to a more connected and fulfilled existence.
My approach is mainly Gestalt Therapy, a creative attitude towards life and personal growth with the emphasis on present experience, contact and awareness that addresses the whole person: mind/body/emotion/spirit. I also draw from my experience in mindfulness and I adopt EMDR techniques when helpful.
Acceptance of each person in their unique reality is inherent in my practice. I work in collaboration with my clients to increase awareness of their strengths as well as identifying and understanding blocks to change, growth and fulfilling relationships.
I value the importance of a therapeutic relationship and I base my relationships with clients on trust and partnership. I am able to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where my clients can feel acknowledged, listened to and supported.
I deal with stress, anxiety, depression, relational issues, cultural adjustment, identity and self-esteem issues, occupational issues, mood disorders, couple crises, emotional disorders, pregnancy and parenthood.

I myself am a third cultural kid, having Dutch and Maltese origins, being born in Zimbabwe and having been brought up in various countries as a child. This has had a deep impact on who I am and the type of roots I have, but has also taught me to search inside for my answers and my identity, and allowed me to develop a broad comprehension of cross-cultural issues.