Feel safe enough to be challenged

Psychologist, MSc

In my work, I strive to understand the unique challenges that the world imposes on each individual, while exploring the internal patterns that may keep them feeling trapped in the face of these challenges.
Based in Amsterdam, I provide psychotherapy to adults and adolescents aged 13–18 in English and Turkish. Sessions are available online, in person at Healing Hub Amsterdam, or in a hybrid format.
Online, in person or hybrid · 45 minutes · €70
Making room for your experience
People often seek therapy when the coping mechanisms and relational patterns that once served them no longer provide the same sense of security or fulfilment. Therapy offers an opportunity to make room for feelings and needs that may have long gone unrecognised or unexpressed. As these parts of the self begin to emerge, individuals can gradually test new ways of being, gaining the freedom to express themselves authentically and experience greater spontaneity and playfulness in their lives.
My work is primarily informed by the Masterson Approach, a psychoanalytic psychotherapy that tailors therapeutic interventions to the individual’s underlying personality organisation.
Areas of support
Explore the concerns you might bring to therapy.
Anxiety and depression
I believe healing comes from understanding what the mind and body are trying to communicate, rather than merely eliminating symptoms.
Explore this areaPersonality disorders and personality organisation
Narcissistic personality disorder, borderline personality disorder and schizoid personality disorder, explored through the individual’s underlying personality organisation.
Explore this areaRelationship problems and sexual difficulties
In therapy, we take the time to distinguish between what belongs to the present and what has been brought into it from the past. We explore which voices have been internalised and which truly belong to the client’s authentic self.
Explore this areaAdolescence: socialisation and relationships
Socialisation, relationship problems and school stress in adolescence, with space for feelings and needs that may have long gone unrecognised or unexpressed.
Explore this areaWork and school stress
Practical, present-focused interventions when appropriate, alongside a deeper understanding of unconscious patterns and relational dynamics.
Explore this areaMigration, identity and belonging
Drawing on both my clinical experience and academic research, I have a particular interest in working with expatriates and ethnic minorities in the Netherlands.
Explore this areaAbout Defne
I am a psychologist based in Amsterdam, providing psychotherapy to adults and adolescents aged 13–18 in both English and Turkish. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Leiden University, where I graduated cum laude.
Drawing on both my clinical experience and academic research, I have a particular interest in working with expatriates and ethnic minorities in the Netherlands. I aim to provide a therapeutic space that remains sensitive to the ways in which cultural identity, migration experiences, discrimination, and social context may influence an individual’s psychological well-being and relationships.
Session information
| Session length | 45 minutes |
| Format | Online, in person or hybrid |
| Frequency | Weekly |
| Standard fee | €70 per session |
| Bachelor students · online | €50 with proof of current enrolment |
| Payment | Private payment |
| Languages | English and Turkish |
Start with a conversation
The first step is a free 15-minute introductory call via WhatsApp video. You can tell me what brings you to therapy, and I will explain how I work. If we both feel we are a good fit, we can arrange a first session.