Derika

Derika de Villiers

Clinical Psychologist

I am a registered clinical psychologist working with adults and couples who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. I have a particular interest in supporting people living abroad, those adjusting to major life changes, and individuals seeking deeper understanding of themselves and their patterns. My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in evidence-based practice. I aim to offer a space that feels safe, respectful, and non-judgemental, where we can explore both current challenges and underlying experiences at a pace that feels manageable for you. I view therapy as a partnership. While I bring professional training and experience, you bring your lived experience, strengths, and insight. Together, we work toward greater clarity, emotional resilience, and meaningful change.

About Me

I am an Amsterdam-based, English and Afrikaans speaking therapist providing face-to-face and online therapy to expats. I offer services to adolescents, adults, parents and couples who experience depression, anxiety, trauma or relationship difficulties. I am registered as a clinical psychologist in South Africa at the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). I am also registered in the Netherlands at the Nederlands Instituut van Psychologen (NIP)

Approach

​I practice from an Integrative psychotherapy model, where I maintain a thread of continuity in who I am and how I make sense of my client’s world. I am mostly influenced by the theories of Gestalt therapy, Systems therapy and Multicultural therapy. I also utilize cognitive behavioural interventions and existential thinking. I am focused on the relationship that I have with my clients. I believe that their style of relating to me represents what they do in the outside world. I also use myself and my reactions towards my clients as feedback. I walk a journey with my clients, working holistically to include all aspects of their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual reality, whereby confidentiality, unconditional positive regard and trust are seen as pillars of the therapeutic relationship.​​​
Contact Derika

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Basic Information

Services


I provide in-person therapy in Amsterdam, the Netherlands and online therapy to expats worldwide. I offer my services to adults, couples and expats who experience depression, anxiety, trauma or relationship difficulties

Services Offered:

  • Psychotherapy

    In-depth therapeutic work that explores patterns in thoughts, emotions, and relationships to produce lasting psychological change.

    Learn more about Psychotherapy
  • Online Therapy

    Therapy sessions conducted over video call, phone, or secure messaging, using the same professional methods delivered remotely.

    Learn more about Online Therapy
  • Relationship Counselling

    Counselling for couples or partners focused on improving communication, rebuilding trust, and strengthening emotional connection.

Works With:

  • Adults
  • Couples
  • Families
  • Parents

Area of Expertise


Scope of Practice:

  • Life Transitions

    Major life changes, such as relocation, retirement, parenthood, or career shifts, that disrupt routine and require psychological adjustment.

    Learn more about Life Transitions
  • Anxiety

    Persistent worry, nervousness, or fear that is disproportionate to the situation and interferes with daily functioning.

    Learn more about Anxiety
  • Mood Disorder

    A category of mental health conditions, including depression and bipolar disorder, in which a person's emotional state is significantly and persistently disrupted.

    Learn more about Mood Disorder
  • Personal Development

    The ongoing process of self-awareness, self-improvement, and reaching one's potential, pursued not because something is wrong but to live more fully.

  • Relationship Issues

    Difficulties in romantic relationships, including communication problems, trust breakdowns, conflict patterns, or uncertainty about the relationship's future.

    Learn more about Relationship Issues

Professional Title:

  • Clinical Psychologist

    An advanced mental health professional trained to assess and treat a wide range of difficulties, from anxiety and depression to trauma and complex conditions.

Qualifications


Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University

Nelson Mandela University (NMU)

Nelson Mandela University (NMU)

University of Pretoria

Registrations


Health Professions Council Of South Africa (HPCSA); Board of Health Funders (BHF)

Clinical Psychologist

Dutch Institute of Psychologists (NIP)

Psychologist

Service Area


Derika.psychologist private practice

In-person & Online

Amsterdam, North Holland

Netherlands