Astrid Sommer

 Experience, expertise, and way of working

“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves”    Victor Frankl

On our journey through life, we often face many, different challenges. Each of us have our own unique resources to assist us coping with the challenges of daily life. There are days when we are at the top of our game and have a sense of mastery over the world. There are other days when we don't understand the world or ourselves and feel overwhelmed by our thoughts and feelings.

Sounds familiar? Almost everyone has felt distressed at one time or another, faced with a mountain of unresolved problems and not knowing what to do next. When additional stressful issues arise, such as difficult life events or personal crises, we can quickly become overwrought and talking to people close to us may no longer be a solution. Seeking professional help is an important first step to recovering our well-being. We do our best to eat well, exercise, go to the hairdresser and brush our teeth daily. But we often neglect our mental and psychological health in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Maintaining our mental strength starts by finding time for ourselves. Whether in life, work, or sport, knowing our resources and limits, utilizing them, and being constantly aware of them is key to achieving high performance over an extended period of time; all while staying healthy. 

I am excited to accompany you on this journey! As a clinical psychologist and business economist with many years of professional experience, from young people to top managers, I will support you in a respectful and collegial manner. My diverse professional experience includes roles as a coach, police psychologist, study and career counsellor, psychologist in acute and forensic psychiatry, certified emergency psychologist, seafarer, HR manager & executive in the pharmaceutical, biotech and cruise industries.

About me

As a psychological coach, I prioritize building trust and providing a safe space for you to express your individual needs, wishes, fears, and challenges. My approach is transparent and scientifically sound, primarily utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) supplemented by other scientific-based methods as needed. The coaching methods used include clinical hypnosis, hypnosystemic coaching (according to Gunther Schmidt), provocative therapy, language in counselling & coaching, gestalt-oriented principles in coaching, and mindfulness or relaxation exercises (e.g. Progressive Muscle Relaxation according to Jacobson), supplemented by other resource and solution-oriented systemic approaches. 

During the coaching session, the techniques used can be explained in greater detail should you have that desire. 

I continue to learn and train regularly to stay current with professional developments.

Important to know

Each individual has a unique story that is worth listening to. My approach is one of appreciation and openness to you and your concerns. Coaching sessions provide a secure space where concerns can be addressed in a respectful and non-judgmental environment. Together, we will determine how to utilize your resources and strengths in challenging situations. 

As a psychologist, I am committed to confidentiality and hold my clients' privacy in the highest regard. Therefore, everything discussed during our sessions will be strictly confidential.