SOPHIE ZIJLSTRA
About Sophie
As a psychologist and Vedic meditation teacher, I help people find inner peace, balance, and happiness from within.
From a young age, I have had a deep interest in the human psyche. After years of study and work experience, I discovered how meditation and psychotherapy complement each other. In my private practice, I combine Western psychology with Vedic philosophy and techniques to support clients in a holistic way, fostering lasting results and growth.
Education and work experience
After finishing my masters in child psychology, for a few years I worked as a therapist with teenagers and their parents.
In 2019 I took a short career break to realise a dream, traveling. The following years have been life changing. It has been a period of personal development and change in which I discovered the spiritual aspects of life and myself. This has allowed me to approach my work in a more holistic way.
In 2021 I completed my first meditation teacher training with the 1 Giant Mind Academy. Since then i work independently as a psychologist and meditation teacher.
Besides this I also work within the field of addiction care. This started when I was still living in Thailand and continued once back in the Netherlands. Here I finished courses in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and EMDR.
In February 2025 I finished a year long advanced training to become a Vedic Meditation Teacher and I now offer Vedic meditation courses in the Netherlands, Utrecht.
Combining therapy and meditation is one of my biggest passions.
What my clients say
"Sophie came into my life at a time when I really needed her. I was feeling confused and in a lot of pain. She helped me get back on my feet and gain clarity about some of my beliefs and what I could focus on. I am so grateful to have worked with her. She is a warm and loving person who made me feel safe and seen."
"I learned quite a few things about myself in meditation and conversation with Sophie. Our time together has shaped my spirit in ways I'm deeply grateful for. My learning in the process has shaped my daily practices and mindset."
"Before the course I needed to ground myself, to feel more in touch with myself and to slow down my overactive, busy mind. The course helped me learn to regulate my nervous system, create space and connect with my deeper self."
"This year has been amazing and life changing for me. I am proud of how far I have come and now know better how to let go of things that are out of my control. I am so grateful that I met Sophie, who taught me to love and accept myself exactly as I am."