From Iran to the Netherlands: Ghazal's Journey to Becoming a Freelance Psychologist
Ghazal's path to becoming a psychologist and freelance practitioner is a testament to resilience, curiosity, and the power of self-discovery. Originally from Iran, Ghazal has been living in the Netherlands for a decade. Her journey, marked by significant challenges and profound growth, led her to explore the depths of human psychology both personally and professionally. Join us as we delve into her story, her motivations, and her insights into the world of freelance psychology.
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Ghazal and I originally come from Iran. I live in the Netherlands for 10 years now. I work as a psychologist. Recently, I decided to start working as a freelancing psychogolist as well, to explore the experience and see how it feels.
Take us along your journey to where you are today. What lessons have you learned, what mistakes did you make, and what achievements have shaped your path?
This is a very interesting question. When I look back at my life, it makes me believe that there has always been something in me that wanted to know and learn more, first about myself and then others. However, I never looked at it as a profession for myself, until I came to the Netherlands as a refugee and had to start from zero. I was lost and had no idea what I wanted to do, how and where to start. Everything was totally different here. After some very difficult years and mental struggles I went through, I just wanted to learn more about who I was, to understand what I was going through and how then to save myself. So I decided to look at the option of studying clinical psychology, which used to be just a hobby for me, little did I know that it was never going to be an easy journey. So, I did my bachelor and master in clinical psychology, did months of internships and then started to work. I believe what led me to the place I am now at this moment was to know how to live despite all the challenges.
Were you afraid to starting your own freelance business?
To be honest, yes. Of course, depending on what type of character you are, it can differ. The instability and unpredictability of working as a freelance psychogolist is still something I need to get used to and become more comfortable with. I had always the idea of expanding my working field and context, to plant a seed, nurture it and watch it as it starts to flourish and grow. For that reason, I decided to start working freelance as this was the first step for it.
Ghazal works at Stories Sarphatistraat
Who are your clients?
I work with adults (+18) and sometimes couples. Often, clients come with anxiety and depression, different traumas, childhood traumas, attachment-related problems, and self-esteem issues. These problems consequently affect their careers and relationships, as well. These are very general and sometimes just symptoms of something else. So during therapy, we can reach to much deeper levels underlying the abovementioned problems which can lead to more self-awareness. That is what I love to happen in therapy sessions, that is to learn to see and understand more, to become curious about “YOU” rather than trying to escape yourself.
What advice would you offer to those just starting their own psychology or coaching business?
I work in mental health field. To me, it does not sound and feel as a business and I do not see it as a business. So I believe that this is important to know. What I also noticed when I started freelancing is the importance of having colleagues or teammates so that you do not feel alone, especially in our field. It is important that you can discuss opinions and brainstorm a bit with colleagues, in case there are some questions and doubts about the way you work. Otherwise, it might feel a bit isolated. So my advice is to approach other colleagues and try to engage with other people and network if you work in the mental health field.
Ghazal Hajivandi
Member at Stories Sarphatistraat
As a psychologist, Ghazal brings a wealth of experience and empathy to her practice, working with adults and couples facing issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-esteem problems. Her approach to therapy is deeply rooted in fostering self-awareness and understanding, helping her clients navigate their challenges and discover their true selves. Through her work, Ghazal aims to plant seeds of growth and watch them flourish, one client at a time.
Find Ghazal’s Instagram here.
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