Welcome to FocusNest

Do you or someone you care about often struggle with paying attention, acting without thinking (impulsivity), or finding it hard to handle strong feelings like anger?

These common challenges might be signs of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), past difficult experiences (trauma) like bullying, family changes, abuse, or even war, or often, a mix of both.

It's important to know that ADHD can sometimes make someone more likely to experience trauma, for example, by acting on impulse without realizing the danger. And on the flip side, difficult past experiences can make ADHD symptoms feel much worse.

Because these two are so closely linked, trying to help with one without looking at the other might not give the best results.

At FocusNest we understand that these struggles can come from many places, and finding out how they connect for you (or your loved one) is the first step to getting effective support.

At FocusNest we are dedicated to helping individuals (from age 3) improve their ADHD and trauma-related symptoms and general wellbeing.

Art Psychotherapy

Tapping Techniques

Breathwork

Internal Family Systems/Emotional Intelligence (EI/EQ)

gentle movements/exercise

Our 'Whole Me' Approach

At FocusNest, we take pride in our "Whole Me" therapy approach, a unique blend of science, natural techniques, and creative methods designed to harmonize the mind, body, and spirit.

Our goal is to guide you (or your loved one) toward meaningful, lasting well-being and transformative solutions for both the short and long term.

Our tools are thoughtfully designed to deliver compassionate, client-centered care, customized to ease your symptoms and guide you through every step of your journey.

 

Please note: We do not offer treatment for individuals dealing with addiction or substance abuse.

Engage with Our Hands-On Workshops

ADHD-Trauma Creative Awareness Workshop

This specialized workshop offers a unique and supportive space for individuals who are experiencing both ADHD and trauma related symptoms. We blend neuroscientific insights with the power of creative and holistic exploration of art, breathwork and tapping to provide 'quick' practical tools for managing symptoms, fostering self-awareness, and building resilience. This workshop is designed for those who seek alternative methods to articulate their inner experiences and find new pathways to calm and focus. Click on the 'Learn More' button below to get more information on the workshop and on how to register for future sessions. 

 

 

'Calmer Me, Calmer Us' - Emotional Intelligence 101 for Families

Is your family overwhelmed by stress and conflict?

Join our "Calmer Me, Calmer Us" interactive family workshop
and discover how to build lasting emotional intelligence (EQ) skills.

This hands-on experience empowers parents to understand, manage, and regulate their own emotions while teaching children essential emotional skills for success in school, work, and life.

Why is emotional intelligence more important than academic success?

Research shows that emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in shaping financial success, personal happiness, and meaningful relationships. Our proven methods, backed by top global institutions, make it easier to foster these skills in your family.

By participating, you'll create stronger connections with your child(ren) and establish a calmer, more harmonious home environment for everyone.

Ready to transform your family dynamic?

From Anger to Calm-Our Anger Management Services

Are you struggling to manage anger or looking to improve your emotional balance? Join our Anger Management Services, a supportive and inclusive program designed to help individuals understand, process, and channel anger in healthier ways. Whether you’re dealing with everyday frustrations or deeper emotional challenges, this workshop provides practical tools, guided exercises, and expert guidance to help you regain control and achieve greater peace of mind. Open to all ages and backgrounds. 

What Our Clients Are Saying

Amélie creates a safe space to share her knowledge and tools about ADHD and trauma. I like how it's informative and interactive at the same time. Than you for the work you do Amelie"-Ahilya, workshop participant*

*Only first names of clients/participants have been kept to protect client/participant confidentiality. 

 

Thank you Amélie for offering this space to share your knowledge with others. It was wonderful to have an opportunity to refresh some of what I knew whilst learning new insights and effective tools to support both myself and those who I meet on my journey. This has awoken the creative desire within me! Much appreciated.-Naomi (therapist), workshop participant

 

The ADHD-Trauma workshop was very enlightening and cozy. To start of with asking us how we feel in our native languages, I immediately felt it as a safe space where my identity didn't have to be put away. I liked how you explained everything and interacted with us. Also having room to support the different people and their ordeals. It was a good introduction to your work & that's why I also joined the weekly sessions-Nafisa, workshop participant

 

 

“I was really looking for a therapist and someone I can really trust and talk with. And connecting with you during your workshop because you're mixed race is helping me to understand my upbringing and traumas I have suffered"-Brandy, 25 year old undiagnosed trauma related challenges

"Regular sessions with Amélie helped us connect with our emotions, recognize it and learn to express it more accurately. Through discussions based on real examples from our family life, we were able to better understand what is going on in our children's minds. We started to change the way we react to challenging family situations and feel better equipped to accompany our children in managing their emotions"-Sophie & Joseph, Canadian family living in Senegal

"I have been using the tools provided during our last few sessions and have really been enjoying the results of self regulating my built up emotions in my body with tapping and breathing exercises. It helped a lot to finally make the right steps for myself moving forward and have felt so much release and positivity since I made the decision [undisclosed issue]"-Efwe, 30, mixed heritage, undiagnosed trauma-ADHD related challenges

“FocusNest has helped my son get organized, plan ahead and his grades up. The comprehensive and creative approach of Drs. van den Brink has really made a difference in managing his executive functioning symptoms. He is now more confident and I love seeing him smile again"-Monica, 10 year old son diagnosed with ADHD

Office Hours:

Open Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM CET (Amsterdam Time) 

Online and In-Person (in a park near you) Sessions

Contact Us

Location

Online & in a park near you/Gelderland Region, The Netherlands

About Us

FocusNest is a dedicated psychology/psychotherapy practice supporting individuals navigating ADHD and trauma-related challenges/symptoms. We also provide workshops, including family-focused support through personalized, interactive workshops. Our doors are open to individuals of all abilities and backgrounds, including those without a formal mental health diagnosis. 

We offer flexible sessions both online and in-person (in a park near you), with services available in English and French.

We are committed to making mental health care both accessible and affordable. By offering low prices and special discounts for individuals and families facing financial hardships, we ensure everyone has access to the support they need and deserve.

Committed to excellence, FocusNest is registered with recognized quality assurance organizations in the US and Europe.

Drs. van den Brink-El Makkaoui, Ex-Founder and Managing Director of the Child Behavioral Health Network - Alternative Therapies for Children, proudly received the Global Health & Pharma Mental Health Award 2022 for 'Best Specialized Children's Mental Health Care - Netherlands'.