NICOLE BERTRAND
(PSYCHOLOGIST)
Website: www.innerlighttherapy.nl
Email: n.bertrand.therapy@gmail.com
Phone: 06-18258193
Hi! My name is Nicole Bertrand. I am a French-Mexican Psychologist based in Leiden and Utrecht. I grew up in Mauritius though I moved around a lot in my youth so I was constantly surrounded by people from diverse international backgrounds, which gave me a deep appreciation for the unique stories and cultures I’ve encountered. This openness to different perspectives shapes my approach to therapy, where I value and celebrate each individual's journey.
I completed my international baccalaureate at the United World College in Costa Rica, and subsequently studied psychology at Leiden University for both my bachelor's degree and my Master's degree. I am now an accredited psychologist at the Dutch Institute of Psychology (NIP). Leiden is where I found my passion for psychology. It is where I came to embrace a deeper understanding of myself and the world.
As a queer person, I deeply value the individuality of human beings. My personal identity challenges societal norms and embraces intersectionality. As a result, I find it crucial to cultivate a community that thrives on empathy and understanding. I believe in the power of inclusivity and warmth within our shared space. Therefore, I value genuine curiosity and I want to learn how life feels like for you. That is why I aim to provide client-centred, individualised therapy that honours our human uniqueness. In that spirit, I offer you a toolkit that encompasses a variety of approaches based on differing schools of thought. This is what I want to bring to the table. Therapy catered to you.
As an integrative psychologist, these are some of the techniques I use:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)/Mindfulness-Based CBT: We’ll reshape negative thoughts and behaviors while incorporating mindfulness for emotional regulation and stress relief.
- Schema Therapy: We’ll explore and change deep-rooted negative patterns, building healthier coping mechanisms and relationships.
- Inner-Child Work: Reconnect with and heal childhood emotional wounds, fostering self-compassion and improved mental well-being.
- Internal Family Systems (IFS): Together, we’ll explore different parts of yourself to heal inner conflicts and achieve balance.
- Humanist Approach: Emphasizing personal growth through empathy and unconditional positive regard, fostering self-awareness and self-acceptance.
- LGBTQIA+ and Neurodivergent Affirmative, Anti-Racist, and Anti-Ableist: I create a safe, inclusive space that celebrates your identity and challenges societal norms to empower you.
- Holistic Therapy: I take a whole-person approach, blending conventional and alternative therapies for balanced well-being.
- Culturally-Sensitive Therapy: I integrate cultural awareness into our sessions, respecting your background and addressing your unique challenges.
While I do not offer specialized care, my approach is centred on supporting your individuality and growth in a way that resonates with your personal experiences.
I am also pursuing a master's in clinical animal behaviourism with the goal to integrate animal-assisted therapy into my practice. I believe in the profound healing power of our connection with animals and nature, offering comfort and care that go beyond words.
Therapy is a powerful act of self-love. Having gone through my own therapeutic journey, I understand how transformative it can be. Together, we’ll work on unlearning what no longer serves you and fostering self-compassion and growth.
Sending warmth,
Nicole