Frequently asked questions
Seeking help in love can be daunting. You might have practical questions, or you might want to see if it’s a good fit for you first. On this page, you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions about our approach, rates, and what you can expect.
Are you unsure about something, or is your question not listed here? Feel free to contact us. We’re happy to help.
About the practice
Praktijk de Liefde is a specialized practice for relationship therapy, systems therapy, and sex therapy. The practice employs highly trained and certified NVRG therapists and therapists from Praktijk de Liefde, specializing in relationship and systems therapy and EFT. With a unique integration of cognitive insights, emotional connection, and physical intimacy (head (cognition), heart (emotion), and body (intimacy)), we help deepen and strengthen relationships, which also has a positive impact on mental and emotional health.
Praktijk de Liefde is considered by many to be the best practice for relationship therapy in the Netherlands. We specialize fully in systems therapy and relationship counseling, combining scientifically proven methods like Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) with our unique head-heart-body approach. We combine insight (head), emotional connection (heart), and body awareness (body) in a holistic approach.
With locations throughout the Netherlands, a warm and professional team of highly trained therapists, and a shared vision of love, attachment, and recovery, we offer therapy that is not only effective but also profound and human. That’s why so many couples and individuals consciously choose Praktijk de Liefde – the place for lasting relationship change and personal growth.
Praktijk de Liefde’s approach is unique because of its combination of systems therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), performed by highly trained, registered NVRG therapists. This approach focuses on restoring connections and strengthening relationships, addressing cognitive, emotional, and physical aspects.
We are the only practice in the Netherlands fully specialized in systems therapy, with a unique head-heart-body approach. We combine scientific depth with a personal connection. Not a mix of isolated methods, but a cohesive vision that ensures lasting change. Our approach is available in both complaint-focused (VAT exempt) and developmental formats.
PDL has locations in Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam, The Hague, Haarlem, Tilburg, Eindhoven and Nijmegen.
Choosing Praktijk de Liefde means choosing a practice with no waiting list, with highly trained therapists who use a systems-oriented and EFT approach. The unique integration of mind, heart, and body often leads to effective results in just 4 to 8 sessions. The approach is warm, personal, and professional.
Joey Steur is the founder of Praktijk de Liefde, an experienced systems therapist, and the author of the book “Uit je liefdesdip” (Out of Your Love Dip). She helps couples with her unique perspective on love, vulnerability, and growth. Joey regularly appears in various media outlets, including Happinez, de Volkskrant, Linda, Jinek, Het Parool, and Women’s Health.
‘Uit je liefdesdip’ by Joey Steur serves as a loving and powerful relationship guide for anyone who wants to deepen or restore their relationship, or the relationship with themselves. Whether you’re in a rut or a slump, or simply want to get the most out of your relationship, this book offers practical exercises and insights to reconnect your mind, heart, and body, focused on strengthening emotional and physical intimacy.
The book “Uit je liefdesdip – Rediscover Love with Mind, Heart, and Body” is written by Joey Steur, a systems therapist and founder of Praktijk de Liefde. It offers practical insights and exercises to deepen or restore your relationship. You can order the book through the book page on our website or through platforms like Bol.com. It is suitable for couples and individuals who want to grow in love, connection, and self-awareness.
Systemic therapy is one of the most effective forms of therapy for relationship problems, especially when there are recurring conflicts, attachment issues, or trauma. At Praktijk de Liefde, we combine this method with EFT, body-oriented exercises, and individual insights. This makes the therapy not only effective but also tangible, deepening, and lasting.
Yes. Our therapists are affiliated with the NVRG (Dutch Association for Relationship and Family Therapy) or are in-house at PdL. They are also trained in EFT and other evidence-based methods. We work with high professional standards and a shared vision on love, attachment, and recovery.
Inhoud accordeon
The team at Praktijk de Liefde consists of experienced therapists and sexologists with diverse backgrounds in systems therapy, EFT, psychology, and sexology. They work from a shared vision where head, heart, and body converge. Praktijk de Liefde’s vision is to build lasting, loving relationships in the here and now and for generations to come.
At each location you will find therapists who have been carefully selected for their expertise and their ability to guide clients in a safe, personal setting.
The therapists at Praktijk de Liefde are highly trained and affiliated with recognized professional associations such as the NVRG and EFT Nederland, or have received internal training from Praktijk de Liefde. They specialize in relationship dynamics and systems therapy and regularly attend continuing education to maintain the highest quality of care.
Yes, it’s always possible to change therapists. Praktijk de Liefde believes it’s important that you feel safe and comfortable. If you don’t connect, we’re happy to work with you within the team to find a suitable solution, so you receive the support you need.
Appointments and accessibility
Scheduling an appointment at Praktijk de Liefde is easy using the online booking system on the website. Here, you choose your preferred location, the appointment type (introductory session, intake, or session), and a time that suits you. You’ll receive an immediate email confirmation.
No, at Praktijk de Liefde you can see us right away, with no waiting time. You can often schedule an introductory meeting or intake within a few days, either online or in person.
The practice has extended opening hours. Sessions can be scheduled during the day and in the evening, making it easy to combine therapy with work, family, or other commitments.
Yes, evening sessions are regularly available. Weekend appointments are only available for the Private Transformation Program and are coordinated with the location and therapist. Feel free to inquire about the options when booking.
The booking system is clear and user-friendly: you select the location, choose the appointment type, and immediately see available times. You’ll receive confirmation of your appointment and can easily reschedule or cancel it if necessary.
Rates and reimbursement
A 20-minute introductory consultation costs €61.50 (excluding VAT), a 65-minute intake session costs €149.50 (excluding VAT), and a regular 65-minute therapy session costs €198.50 (excluding VAT). Rates may vary depending on the type of therapy or program.
Relationship and family therapy are not covered by basic health insurance and are therefore not reimbursed. Because no diagnosis is made, your deductible remains unchanged. You pay for the sessions yourself, but this also means you don’t have to deal with waiting times or referrals.
Most rates are listed excluding VAT. In some cases, therapy is VAT-exempt, for example, if there are psychological or emotional issues. Sessions without a therapeutic purpose are subject to 21% VAT. The practice is happy to help you determine which rates apply.
The Tax Authorities distinguish between therapy with a health-related goal and therapy aimed at personal or relational growth without (threatening) psychological complaints.
When you undergo therapy for symptoms such as stress, anxiety, overwork, burnout, depression, or trauma—or to prevent relapse—this constitutes personal healthcare. These sessions are exempt from medical VAT.
If the goal of the session is to deepen relationships, explore meaning in life, or develop your own life without psychological issues, the sessions are subject to VAT.
Finally, we emphasize that you must describe your request/complaint when booking, so it’s clear whether the program is complaint-focused (exempt) or development-focused (VAT-liable). We ask that you clearly indicate your request for assistance when registering and at the start of the program, so we can apply an appropriate rate and be transparent about tax arrangements.
At Praktijk de Liefde, therapy is exempt from VAT if it falls under the category of personal healthcare. This is the case if you are seeking guidance for psychological issues such as stress, burnout, anxiety, trauma, overload, or attachment issues. In that case, it is considered complaint-focused therapy, and no VAT is due.
If you have no complaints, but would like to work on deepening your relationship, improving communication, or personal growth, the session is not covered by the medical exemption, and 21% VAT applies.
When booking a session, you choose whether you want to book a tax-exempt or tax-taxed program. We trust that you’ll honestly indicate which option applies to you. Not sure which is best? You can discuss it with your therapist during the intake. Together, we’ll ensure you’re in the right place—both content-wise and administratively.
If your request for help relates to stress, overload, trauma, anxiety, burnout, attachment issues, or tension-related issues, it’s often a psychological issue. If you have any doubts, you can always discuss this during your intake or contact our team.
At Praktijk de Liefde, we offer both VAT-exempt therapy and VAT-taxable counseling. By law, therapy is exempt from VAT if it focuses on treating mental health issues, such as:
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stress or overload
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burnout
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anxiety or panic complaints
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trauma(related) complaints
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attachment problems
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tension or mood complaints
When booking your session, we therefore ask you to briefly describe your request or complaint. This is necessary to determine whether the session qualifies as healthcare and is therefore exempt from VAT. You can enter this information in the appropriate field in the booking system.
If you have no complaints, but would like to work on deepening your relationship, improving communication, or personal growth, the session is not covered by the medical exemption and the rate is subject to 21% VAT.
We rely on your honest information and will discuss it further during the intake if necessary. This way, we ensure a clear and correct process together.
The Dutch Tax and Customs Administration allows a VAT exemption for therapy aimed at treating mental health issues. To ensure this is properly documented, we ask clients to briefly describe their complaint or request for assistance when booking. This allows us to comply with legal requirements and ensures your rate remains fair and accurate.
You don’t need an official diagnosis or medical terms. A brief description in your own words is sufficient. Think of things like: “stress at work,” “anxiety in social situations,” “burnout symptoms,” “stressed relationship problems,” or “attachment anxiety.” We’ll discuss this further during the intake.
Yes, you can change or cancel an appointment free of charge up to 48 hours in advance. Weekends and public holidays are not included. Cancellations within 48 hours or in the event of absence will result in a full charge. This policy also applies to introductory meetings and sessions in the evening or on public holidays.
Praktijk de Liefde offers various therapy programs and programs, such as the Transformation Relationship Weekend and private programs. These packages have fixed prices. Subscriptions are also available for those who want to schedule regular sessions at a more affordable rate.
Forms of therapy
Relationship Therapy
The goal of relationship therapy at Praktijk de Liefde is to restore and deepen the emotional and physical connection between partners. Through systems therapy, we work on breaking negative patterns, improving communication, and rediscovering mutual understanding and intimacy.
Relationship therapy is suitable for couples and singles who are struggling in their relationship, experiencing frequent conflict, emotional distance, or struggling with communication and intimacy. Couples who want to deepen or reflect on their relationship can also benefit from therapy.
Relationship therapy often addresses issues such as communication problems, loss of intimacy, infidelity, conflict, and coping with changes like parenthood or life stage differences. In singles therapy, the focus is on understanding recurring patterns in relationships, strengthening self-awareness, and creating healthy connections. In both forms of therapy, we work on breaking persistent patterns and developing new ways of connecting and connecting.
On average, 4 to 8 sessions are needed to achieve lasting change. The number of sessions can vary depending on the complexity of the request and the commitment of both partners.
Yes, it’s possible to start relationship therapy individually. This provides the opportunity to first work on personal insights and growth, after which your partner can join at a later time.
You can easily start therapy alone, even if your relationship is central. At Praktijk de Liefde, we often see that change starts with one person. In individual relationship therapy, you work on insight, resilience, and communication, and your partner can join later. Individual sessions can also be VAT-exempt for mental health issues.
If, during therapy, it becomes clear that divorce is the best option, Praktijk de Liefde can offer support through divorce mediation. This process focuses on separating in a respectful and caring manner, with due consideration for any children and joint responsibilities.
The process begins with an intake interview to identify the couple’s needs and expectations. Subsequent sessions explore patterns, improve communication, and work on restoring connection. Therapy is tailored to the couple’s specific situation and needs.
Yes. Many clients come to us with a combination of relationship problems and personal issues such as stress, overload, anxiety, or trauma. Our therapy is designed to support both sides of the spectrum. During the intake, we’ll explore together what you need. If psychological issues are involved, the therapy is VAT-exempt.
Relationship therapy focuses on addressing underlying patterns, psychological issues, and relationship dynamics. It is in-depth and often complaint-oriented. Coaching is more future-focused and goal-oriented, and less suitable for situations such as trauma, anxiety, or stalled communication. At Praktijk de Liefde, we offer therapy that supports both psychological and relationship recovery, and is, where necessary, complaint-oriented and therefore VAT-exempt.
At Praktijk de Liefde, we offer specialized relationship therapy for couples experiencing stress, trauma, or mental overload. Our approach integrates psychological expertise with systems therapy, so we not only strengthen the relationship but also build mental resilience. If mental health issues are present, the therapy also falls under the VAT exemption for healthcare.
The first session is a comprehensive intake, where we take the time to thoroughly assess your situation, symptoms, and goals. You’ll get started right away. Together, we’ll determine whether the therapy is symptom-focused (VAT-exempt) or development-focused (VAT included). This way, you can start with clarity, safety, and an approach that suits you.
That’s certainly possible. In that case, please select the VAT-taxable rate when booking. These programs focus on growth, deepening, or reorientation, and are not legally considered healthcare. We will guide you with the same dedication, depth, and expertise during these sessions as well.
Absolutely. Everything you share when booking or during sessions will be treated confidentially and stored in accordance with GDPR guidelines. Your data will never be shared with third parties.
Individual therapy
Individual therapy is suitable if you experience personal challenges that impact your relationships or well-being, such as recurring patterns, emotional blockages, or difficulty connecting. It offers space for self-reflection and personal growth.
Systemic individual therapy focuses on understanding your behavior and feelings within the context of your relationships and environment. It examines how interactions with significant others impact your well-being and how you can change this.
The process begins with an intake interview to clarify your needs. Subsequent sessions will focus on gaining insights, exploring patterns, and working towards achieving personal goals. The duration and frequency of the sessions will be tailored to your needs.
Individual therapy can lead to greater self-awareness, improved relationships, increased self-confidence, and a greater sense of well-being. It helps you make more conscious choices and cope more effectively with life’s challenges.
Sex Therapy
Sex therapy at Praktijk de Liefde focuses on exploring and improving sexual and intimate aspects within yourself or your relationship. It offers a safe space to openly discuss sexual concerns, desires, and any blockages.
No, sex therapy is for both individuals and couples. Whether you’re single or in a relationship, you can come to us with questions or concerns about sexuality and intimacy.
Themes can range from loss of desire, pain during sex, and differences in sexual needs to exploring sexual identity and boundaries. Therapy offers support in understanding and addressing these issues.
During the sessions, we discuss intimacy and sexuality in a respectful and open manner. We work to create a safe environment where you feel free to share your experiences and feelings.
Yes, at Praktijk de Liefde, sexuality is approached without judgment. All questions and concerns are welcome to be discussed, with respect for your boundaries and values.
Family Therapy
Family therapy at Praktijk de Liefde focuses on restoring connection, improving communication, and strengthening relationships within the family. Sometimes it helps to move forward together, sometimes it helps to separate as a family in a caring way—always with an eye for respect, safety, and resilience.
Family therapy is available for families experiencing tension, where communication is difficult, or where members no longer understand each other. This therapy also offers solutions in blended families or when parenting and raising children pose challenges.
Thema’s zijn bijvoorbeeld terugkerende conflicten, rolverdeling, spanningen tussen broers en zussen, overbelasting bij ouders, of het omgaan met grote veranderingen zoals een scheiding, verhuizing of ziekte. De therapie helpt om deze situaties bespreekbaar te maken en samen tot nieuwe inzichten te komen.
In blended families, extra attention is paid to loyalty, boundaries, expectations, and the influence of ex-partners. Everyone’s place in the system is considered, creating space for understanding, connection, and shaping a new family dynamic.
When it becomes clear that continuing together is no longer feasible, family therapy offers a safe environment to carefully guide the family through the process. Attention is paid to how to maintain mutual relationships—especially when it comes to parenting and the impact on children.
Singles therapie
Singles therapy at Praktijk de Liefde is a personalized program for those struggling with being alone, wanting to break recurring relationship patterns, or seeking a deeper connection—with others and with themselves.
During therapy, you’ll work on gaining greater insight into yourself, your relationships, and your needs. Together with your therapist, you’ll explore the patterns that hold you back, so you can face the future with greater confidence and clarity. You’ll develop a stronger foundation for love—your way.
This therapy is suitable for anyone who feels lonely as a single person, has difficulty with attachment, is insecure in love or wants to prepare themselves for a healthy and equal relationship.
Topics include self-image, loneliness, fear of abandonment or commitment, recurring relationship problems, coping with a breakup, or the desire for autonomy within a sense of connection. Personal desires and boundaries are also explored.
Singles therapy provides greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and confidence in yourself and your relationships. You’ll learn to better understand who you are in your interactions with others and build a love life that aligns with your values and needs.
Friendship therapy
Friendship therapy is intended for people struggling with a friendship that’s broken—due to conflict, alienation, or changing life stages. This therapy is also suitable if you want to deepen or restore a valuable friendship.
What makes this approach special is that friendships are taken just as seriously as romantic relationships. The therapy is warm, systematic, and focused on restoring trust and mutual understanding so that the connection can grow again.
During the sessions, you and the therapist will explore what’s going on between you: from communication and patterns to emotions and expectations. There’s room to express what hasn’t been said yet and to reconnect with each other’s needs.
Yes, friendship therapy is also available online. This makes it easier to get started, especially if you don’t live near each other or prefer to reflect on your relationship from home.
Business relationships
Yes, Praktijk de Liefde also offers guidance for business relationships, such as colleagues, teams, or managers. This therapy focuses on strengthening working relationships, rebuilding trust, and improving collaboration within a professional context.
The goal is to facilitate discussion of conflicts, improve communication, and reduce tensions in the workplace. The coaching helps create an open and safe atmosphere where every team member feels heard and seen. This creates space for sustainable collaboration and personal growth within the team.
Unlike relationship therapy, the focus here isn’t on personal love connections, but on the dynamics between people who are professionally connected. The sessions are systemic in nature, focusing on mutual roles, responsibilities, group processes, and unspoken expectations in the workplace.
Online therapy
The systemic approach remains effective online. We consider your place within the context of relationships, whether that’s with a partner, family, relatives, or colleagues. Through video calls, our therapists guide you with the same care, reflection, and commitment as in a face-to-face session.
Online therapy is ideal for those who live far away, travel frequently, prefer to be at home, or want to fit therapy into their schedule more easily. International clients or partners who feel more comfortable in their own home also benefit from this format.
Yes, provided you have a stable internet connection and are in a quiet space, online therapy is just as effective. The content, structure, and approach are the same as an in-person session—the connection between you and the therapist is paramount.
Online therapy offers convenience, flexibility, and accessibility. You save travel time, can follow therapy from home or while on vacation, and it lowers the barrier to openly discuss sensitive topics. It’s also easier to schedule sessions around work or family life.
Special programs and courses
The Transformational Relationship Weekend is an intensive two-day program for couples who want to work deeply on their relationship in the short term. Under the guidance of experienced therapists, you’ll work in a safe environment to reconnect, break patterns, and deepen intimacy. Theory, bodywork, and exercises combine for a powerful experience.
In the Private Transformation Program, you’ll work with a therapist for one or two days, fully customized to your relationship or personal journey. It’s intensive, personalized, and tailored to your specific needs. This program is ideal if you want to make quick progress or need exclusive, distraction-free guidance.
Divorce mediation at Praktijk de Liefde is designed to facilitate a careful and respectful separation. Everything is guided step by step: from the parenting plan and asset division to legal proceedings. The mediator is impartial and ensures that both partners are heard, ensuring a fair and transparent divorce process—with attention to emotional processing.
“Love at Home” is a program in development, aimed at strengthening connections within families and relationships at home. This program provides support in daily life with exercises, insights, and guidance to interact lovingly and consciously with each other outside of therapy sessions.
Yes, Praktijk de Liefde also offers guidance to ex-partners who are parents together or want to remain so. Co-parenting is central to these programs, with a focus on respectful communication, clear agreements, and the well-being of the children. The goal is a new form of collaboration where peace and clarity are paramount.
Locations and accessibility
You can find Praktijk de Liefde in Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam, The Hague, Haarlem, Tilburg, Eindhoven, and Nijmegen. Online therapy is also available for those who live remotely or prefer to work on themselves or their relationship from home.
Not every location offers all types of therapy. On the location page of the website, you can see which therapies and programs are available in each city, and which therapists work there. This allows you to choose what suits your situation best.
Yes, most locations are easily accessible by public transport. On the location pages, you’ll find information about each location’s accessibility and walking distance from stations or stops.
Some locations offer nearby parking. In larger cities, parking may be charged. You can also find information about this on the relevant location page, so you can prepare for your visit.
Other questions and practical
If you’re unsure whether therapy is right for you, you can start with a 20-minute introductory session. This will help you explore your needs and see if you connect with the practice and therapist. Everything starts with a first step—easy and without obligation.
Preparation isn’t necessary, but you’re welcome to think about what you’d like to discuss. During the intake, there’s time to tell your story, share your expectations, and explore what’s needed together. Everything will be tailored to your pace and needs.
Yes, it’s possible to give someone an introductory session or session as a gift. Please contact the practice assistants. They’ll help you find a suitable gift, for example, as a token of appreciation or as part of a personalized program.
Yes, Praktijk de Liefde offers various online programs that you can follow independently or in combination with therapy. These programs can focus on deepening relationships, breaking patterns, or recovering from a crisis. These programs are practical, in-depth, and directly applicable to your own life.
