“The first session is always free – no pressure, just a conversation.” That open and honest approach captures the essence of life-coaching in Amsterdam with Simon Markx. In a recent episode of the People of Amsterdam podcast, Simon shared his story—from psychiatry to coaching—and explained how he helps people, from expats to Gen Z, navigate real-life challenges with clarity, purpose, and compassion.
From Psychiatry to Purpose
Simon’s journey started in a psychiatric hospital.
“I worked in psychiatry,” he explains, “but I wanted something more practical. So I became a certified career and youth coach and started my own business.”
His approach to life-coaching in Amsterdam is forward-looking and grounded.
“Therapy often looks back. Coaching helps people move forward.”
Coaching That’s Honest, Human, and Helpful
Simon doesn’t offer quick fixes or empty promises.
“Sometimes people come in and ask, ‘Should I quit my job? Should I leave my relationship?’ I don’t answer that. But I help them gain the clarity they need to decide.”
His clients typically work with him for 8 to 12 sessions—time to reflect, explore goals, and take action. And when deeper mental health support is needed?
“You have to be honest,” he says. “If it’s serious, I refer them to a therapist. That’s part of being a responsible coach.”
Expat Life Can Be Lonely—Coaching Can Help
If you’ve just moved to Amsterdam and feel isolated, Simon gets it.
“Dutch people often stick to their circles, which can make it hard to connect.”
Through life-coaching in Amsterdam, Simon helps expats not just survive but thrive:
“I’ll suggest clubs, meetups, even cafés where they can meet people. One client didn’t know where to begin. I said: try the 10 Club, play tennis, check out Soho. Find your people.”
Coaching for Dating Confidence (No Tricks Involved)
Simon also supports clients—especially young men—struggling with dating in the digital age.
“There’s so much pressure to be perfect. Instagram doesn’t show the messy reality.”
But his coaching isn’t about tricks or games:
“I don’t teach pickup lines. I help people feel real and confident. That’s what actually works.”
In fact, Simon’s dating coaching became so popular during lockdown that media outlets began calling him for advice.
“But honestly, I’ve been helping friends and cousins with dating for years.”
Helping You Hear Yourself
Whether you’re facing a career decision, struggling in a relationship, or just feel ungrounded, life-coaching in Amsterdam with Simon is about reconnecting with what matters to you.
“One client wanted to leave his bank job to do something creative and green,” Simon recalls.
“I didn’t say yes or no. I asked, ‘What gives you energy? What brings you joy?’ That’s where the answers are.”
A Personal Coaching Style That Works
Simon’s style is warm, empathetic, and refreshingly down-to-earth.
“It’s not about fixing people,” he says. “It’s about helping them recognize what they already know.”
His sessions feel like conversations—with a bit of humor, a lot of listening, and the occasional nudge to think differently.
Try Life-Coaching in Amsterdam with Simon Markx
💬 Thinking about coaching?
Book your free first session—just a relaxed conversation to see if there’s a click. Just a relaxed chat to see if there’s a connection.
🎧 Want to hear more?
Listen to Simon’s episode on the People of Amsterdam podcast for a deeper dive into his story and coaching philosophy.
👉 Book your free session now and start your journey with life-coaching in Amsterdam.
