Interview with Helen van Empel of Yet: "Early intervention helps."
Helen van Empel, an experienced psychologist and pioneer in the Dutch therapy world, tells in conversation with Dick de Zwart passionately about her mission. In a candid interview, she emphasizes the complexity of mental challenges and the importance of early intervention.
Intervening at an early stage
"A mental challenge is never isolated," Helen begins. "It's always a confluence of circumstances. It can become a trade-off that is negative, and if you intervene early on and you discuss what you are struggling with, then you can just take a different turn. That is not only good for yourself but also good for your colleagues eand for your homesituation."
As the founder of One Session, an innovative approach to single session therapy, and later as co-founder of Yet, a new label launched in partnership with Zorg van de Zaak, Helen is passionate about providing fast and effective help to people who need it, at the moment they need it.
Approachable and without long wait times
"Traditional mental health care has limitations," she explains. "That's why I wanted to create something that helps people quickly and easily, without long waiting lists or complicated diagnostic procedures."
With Yet, Helen offers a range of professionals, including psychologists, career coaches and confidants, who can assist people in their personal development and mental well-being.
The control lies with the people themselves.
"The control lies with the people themselves," Helen stresses. "It's about them having the authority to move forward and help themselves when they need it."
Changing the perception of stress
In light of current challenges, such as the impact of the corona pandemic on work and family, Helen recognizes the need for flexible and effective approaches to therapy.
"Stress is inevitable, but it's all about how we deal with it," she explains. "By changing our perception of stress and choosing a positive mindset, we increase our resilience and carrying capacity."
Helping as many people as possible quickly and effectively
Her ambition with Yet is clear: to help as many people as possible quickly and effectively. "We have a team of passionate professionals who all believe things can and should be different," she says enthusiastically.
Despite her leadership role in Yet, Helen remains humble and stresses the importance of teamwork. "Everyone contributes, and that makes us stronger as a collective," she says.
As the interview draws to a close, Dick invites Helen for a cup of coffee to continue talking about their shared passion for helping others. With a smile on her face, she reveals that her dedication to the well-being of others never ends.
Yet's services are included in the health and safety services of MKB FiT Premium and MKB FiT Excellent.