What you'll achieve
Do you want to feel more at home in the Netherlands? Make a bigger impact at work? Build stronger connections, or simply feel more like yourself again?
Our one-on-one coaching is clear, practical, and personal. We prefer meeting face-to-face, because we often pick up on things you might not even notice in yourself. That’s where real change begins.
The coaching revolves entirely around you and your goal. We're results-oriented and want to help you achieve your goal. We help you see things more clearly, make better choices, and take steps that actually fit you.
“What I liked most was the personalized feedback in the 1-on-1 session with my coach. I came away feeling more motivated, with more clarity and concrete steps for job searching and much more secure about my direction. This coaching program offers practical advice for internationals looking for a job in the Netherlands."
Stacey Hsiao
From:
"I know I can do more, but I can't figure out how..."
To:
"I know what I want and I'm taking action with confidence."
1. Free introduction with Simon
(30 minutes video call)
You want to know what you're getting into and whether coaching is right for you. You schedule an appointment with Simon for a 30-minute video call.
During this conversation:
You get to know each other
You discuss your situation and goals
Simon explains how the coaching works
Simon helps you determine which coach is the best fit for you
Feel good about it?
Then you immediately schedule your first coaching session.
2. Your Coaching Journey
(3 sessions, 2.5 months)
You start with the coach who best fits your situation and goals. For each session, the coach allocates 2 hours of time, of which 90 minutes are face-to-face in Utrecht, walking distance from Central Station (or online if needed). The remaining time your coach uses for preparation, feedback on homework, and customized support.
You'll get:
3 personal coaching sessions of 90 minutes
Face-to-face in Utrecht (or online if that works better)
Reflection letters between sessions
Customized homework and assignments
Access to relevant online content from The Happy Expats Academy
Personal support between sessions
3. Results and Follow-up
Our clients have already achieved significant results after 3 sessions (so 2.5 months). After that, you decide if you want to continue. Many clients book additional sessions (individual or as a package) later for further deepening.
“I really appreciated our conversations. I felt very comfortable, which made it easy to speak openly. The thoughtful questions helped me gain more insight into why I make certain choices. The sessions also helped me focus more on my skills and how to apply them to topics I find interesting."
Jessica Saat
Perfect if you:
✓ Have been in the Netherlands for at least 1 year
✓ Work or run a business in the Netherlands
✓ Have a concrete desire to grow
✓ Are willing to actively work on yourself
✓ Value face-to-face coaching in Utrecht (or accept online)
✓ Are results-oriented and invest in yourself
✓ Speak English or Dutch
Less suitable if you:
✗ Have been in the Netherlands for less than a year (too early)
✗ Only seek motivation without action
✗ Are not willing to work between sessions
✗ Don't have a specific goal in mind
At The Happy Expats, we’ve helped hundreds of international professionals find their voice, boost their visibility, and land meaningful roles at companies they love.
We understand how the Dutch workplace works, how recruiters think, and how platforms like LinkedIn work effectively. We’ll help you focus on what really matters.
Simon Jansen – Strategic Career Coach with real-world boardroom experience
Before becoming a coach, Simon worked with people from all over the world and held 14 different roles at Dutch banks, including Managing Director. He knows what it’s like to climb fast, feel off-track, and recalibrate. Now he helps international professionals and teams find clarity, energy, and purpose in their careers.
With a sharp mind and a warm style, Simon helps you focus on what really matters in your next move, whether it’s a career switch, more leadership presence, or finding your balance.
*** *** ***
Aiva Eiduka – Personal Brand Strategist for international professionals.
Helps you stand out with clarity and confidence.
Aiva knows how it feels to start over in a new country and to wonder how to show up professionally without losing your voice. With a background in PR, storytelling and coaching, she has helped 100+ international professionals define who they are, what they bring, and how to communicate that powerfully on LinkedIn and beyond.
Expect a coach who listens deeply, challenges you thoughtfully, so you can speak with clarity and show up with confidence.
*** *** ***
Lieke Beijen – Team & Individual Coach who sees the whole person
Lieke has spent over 12 years in mental health and social work, supporting people through transitions and challenges. As someone who's lived and traveled internationally herself, she gets it - the excitement, the isolation, the moments you question everything.
What makes Lieke's approach special? She doesn't just listen to your words. She pays attention to what your body is telling you, the patterns you might not see yourself, and the strength you sometimes forget you have. With warmth and insight, she creates space for honest reflection and real growth.
*** *** ***
Kelly Helinski – Creative Coach who helps you move from stuck to unstuck
Kelly works with non-Dutchies who feel stuck but can't quite put their finger on why. Your head gives you all the logical answers, but something still feels off. That's where Kelly comes in.
With a playful, creative approach (and a healthy dose of humor), she helps you move from overthinking to feeling, from analysis to action. Through exercises, experiments, and honest conversations, Kelly guides you toward more energy, more clarity, and more leadership in your own life. It's coaching that feels refreshing, not heavy.
“I'm so glad I chose this coaching program. I got so much out of it — especially when it comes to making choices and staying calm and grounded. I've even shared some of the things I learned with colleagues and friends who are in similar situations. They've benefited from it too!"
Carmen Eggen
Personal Coaching Program
3 face-to-face sessions (or online) - 6 coaching hours total
€1,110 €797 incl. VAT
(The Happy Expats introduction rate)
What's included:
3 personal coaching sessions of 90 minutes
Face-to-face in Utrecht (walking distance from CS) or online
Preparation and follow-up by your coach
Reflection letters and customized assignments
Access to relevant Academy modules
Support between sessions
Access to online tools
Payment: Payment for the full program takes place directly at the end of the first session. Should you decide not to continue with the full program, you will be charged €97 for costs incurred.
For entrepreneurs and companies:
Request a quote via [email protected]
“The coaching program gave me practical methods I could apply immediately in my job search. I feel my path is a lot clearer now, and I’ve built a stronger foundation of knowledge on how to approach the job market professionally. My coach really cares about each participant, pays attention to every detail and wants you to succeed."
Katie Wu
We believe getting to know each other first is important. Simon, the founder of The Happy Expats, conducts all intake conversations. With his experience in coaching and his knowledge of all coaches, he helps you find the best match. He listens to your situation and advises which coach suits you best. This way you're sure you'll be working with the right person.
Of course you can express a preference. But sometimes you don't see yourself what would help you most. Simon's experience helps you make the right choice.
The free introduction with Simon already helps with finding a good match. After the first session with your coach, you'll know if it truly clicks. Should you decide not to continue with the full program, you only pay €97 for the time and costs incurred.
All coaching sessions are in English. Some coaches also offer coaching in Dutch. Whatever you feel most comfortable with.
1-on-1 sessions take place in Utrecht, walking distance from Central Station. Online sessions are also possible via video call when face-to-face doesn't work.
In personal coaching, we see and feel more. Body language, energy, what you radiate without words - it gives us a more complete picture and makes the coaching deeper and more effective. Online is possible when face-to-face doesn't work.
For most goals, this is an excellent start with noticeable results. After that, you decide if you want to continue. Many clients later book additional sessions (individual or as a package) for further deepening.
Yes! Many Dutch employers have budgets for personal development. We provide a formal quote that your HR will recognize as a Professional Leadership Program. Contact your employer and ask about the possibilities.
