Understanding and Overcoming Burnout: My Approach as a Clinical Psychologist in Amsterdam

Burnout is something I see all too often in my practice here in Amsterdam.

As a Clinical Psychologist with over 13 years of experience, I’ve worked with individuals from high-stress environments—corporate professionals, entrepreneurs, healthcare workers, and even special forces personnel—who have pushed themselves beyond their limits, only to find that their energy, motivation, and well-being have been drained.

What Is Burnout?

Burnout isn’t just about feeling tired—it’s a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged and excessive stress. It often stems from a relentless drive to succeed, the pressure to meet demanding expectations, or the inability to switch off from work. Many of my clients describe feeling detached from their work and personal lives, struggling to find joy in the things they once loved.

You might recognize the signs of burnout in small but telling ways. Perhaps you find yourself unable to truly relax on the weekends, constantly checking emails or worrying about unfinished tasks. Sunday nights might bring an overwhelming sense of dread, making it hard to sleep as you anticipate the week ahead. If these feelings sound familiar, you’re not alone—many high-achieving individuals experience this cycle of stress and exhaustion without realizing it’s burnout.

It is important to note that in the Netherlands, employers are aware of burnout and have guidelines on how to support their staff in their recovery and reintegration into the workplace after a period of leave. However, this doesn’t always prevent burnout from occurring in the first place. Read more to find out how it happens and how it can be treated.

How Does Burnout Happen?

In my work with high-achieving professionals and those in demanding roles, I’ve seen a common pattern: burnout doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a gradual process, typically starting with:

• Overcommitment – Taking on too much responsibility, often at the expense of personal well-being.
• Neglecting recovery – Ignoring signs of stress, sacrificing sleep, exercise, and downtime.
• Emotional exhaustion – Feeling mentally drained, cynical, or disengaged.
• Performance decline – Even the most capable individuals find their concentration, creativity, and decision-making abilities slipping.

Many of my clients tell me they didn’t even realize they were burning out until they hit a breaking point—whether it was a panic attack, chronic health issues, or the realization that they could no longer cope with daily demands.

How Can Burnout Be Treated?

The good news is that burnout is reversible. Over the years, I’ve helped countless clients recover by addressing not just the symptoms but also the underlying causes. My approach combines evidence-based therapies with practical strategies tailored to each individual’s situation.

1. Identifying and Addressing the Root Causes

Burnout isn’t just about working too hard; it’s often about deeper patterns—perfectionism, difficulty setting boundaries, or unresolved stressors. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I help clients uncover these patterns and develop healthier ways to manage stress.

2. Restoring Energy and Mental Clarity

Recovering from burnout requires intentional restoration. Together, we focus on:

• Rebuilding healthy routines – Sleep, nutrition, and movement play a vital role in recovery.
• Mindfulness and stress regulation – Learning to calm an overactive nervous system through techniques like meditation and breathwork.
• Redefining productivity – Shifting from a mindset of overworking to one that values sustainable performance.

3. Strengthening Resilience and Preventing Future Burnout

Many of my clients fear falling back into old patterns. I work with them to develop long-term resilience strategies, such as:

• Setting boundaries that protect personal time.
• Reframing stress so it becomes a motivator rather than a drain.
• Cultivating a sense of purpose and alignment between work and values.

Are You Experiencing Burnout?

If you recognize yourself in these patterns, know that you’re not alone—and you don’t have to push through it on your own. Seeking support isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a step toward recovery and a healthier, more sustainable life.

If you’d like to explore how I can help you navigate burnout and regain your energy, feel free to reach out. I offer therapy sessions in Amsterdam, helping individuals like you find balance, resilience, and renewed purpose.