Previously, in the BLEND magazine, we explored with therapist Natatchia Seute what it means to undertake therapy, what to expect and how the procedure is structured. However, this topic opened the way for many other questions regarding Natatchia’s profession. In this article we will get to know Natatchia better and discuss about different matters that influence our mind which surrounds us.   

Dealing with somebody’s personal issues and struggles must require a lot of experience, how did you start? 

I started my practice in Almere, after which I went to Dongen where I started my current practice. In between I also did some specializations, like cognitive behaviour therapy. I did acceptance and commitment therapy, as well as hypnotherapy. But mostly I use psychotherapy, which hypnotherapy is also a part of. Cognitive behaviour therapy is slightly different, it is a bit more structured and it works the best for anxiety.   

 Could you sketch clearer image of the type of people you see in your practice?  

 My clients are often students or young professionals with extremely busy lives. They may have not realized they took too much on their plate, and now they are overwhelmed with their commitments. They study, work many hours and have a busy social life. And at the same time, they feel very bad and alone. More and more clients also struggle with anxiety problems. They are very intelligently capable, yet they are so scared to go on to the streets or the public transport to go to school, that they get stuck on the way there. Moreover, I have clients who have already achieved a lot, who have a good job, a lot of responsibilities, yet they still miss something. Everyone is really focused on their future and on their achievements. Everyone needs to be perfect, or to be better than others, or at least as good as others. Everybody is following this logic. We are all comparing ourselves and we are having these competitions, and many people can become overwhelmed by this. 

Do you think that social media also plays a role into this idea of perfectionism?  

Well, to some extent yes, especially due to the covid situation. People are spending more and more time connected online, they are seeking social interaction more than ever. You are of course exposed to the seemingly perfect picture portrayed by others on social media, which most of the time is fake. Other’s lives on social media and their achievements may pressure you. Many people nowadays are so focused on succeeding that they sometimes lose themselves on the way there, and realize they are not really living a happy life. Social media are playing a role in this perception, together with many other factors. 

To have a better understanding of this topic and dive a bit more into what therapy entails and the taboos surrounding this delicate practice, we encourage you to check out the BLEND magazine, available at campus.