Ellen

About Ellen Benedikovičová

Ellen Benedikovičová, psychologist at The Circle Clinic, smiling in front of green leafy shrubs

Hi! Ahoj! I’m Ellen

Psychologist (Psycholoog NIP)

Pronouns: She/her

Languages: English, Slovak, Czech

Affiliation: Nederlands Instituut van Psychologen (NIP) Psychologist – Number # 252866, Kamer van Koophandel (KVK) – 99606933

Education

M.Sc. Clinical Psychology, Cum Laude Distinction, Leiden University Master’s Thesis – Mind Over Matter: The Moderating Effect of Trait Mindfulness on the Relationship Between Trait Worry and Heart Rate Variability

B.Sc. Psychology, University of Groningen Bachelor’s Thesis – To Eat or Not to Eat Meat: A Deep Dive Into Motivated Reasoning Behind Dietary Choices 

Clinical Trainings

Introductory Seminar in Somatic Experiencing from A European Association for Somatic Experiencing

Embodying Emotions (Webinar Series) from Raja Selvam, via Uitgeverij Mens!

Specialities
Areas of Interest
  • Anxiety 
  • Somatic symptoms 
  • Depression 
  • Self-esteem
  • Identity 
  • Relationships 
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy 
  • Somatic therapy 
  • Holistic therapy  
  • Integrative approach
Overhead view of a cozy therapy room table with a tissue box, candle, incense, and cups of tea, set up for a calming session

About Me

My path to psychology wasn’t exactly straightforward. I explored different directions and spent quite some time figuring out what I wanted to do. But one thing remained constant: my curiosity about people, their stories, and what makes us who we are. Once I started studying psychology, everything finally clicked, and I haven’t looked back since. 

As a psychologist, I hope to bring my naturally calm presence into our sessions, along with just the right amount of challenge to help you grow. I believe there is so much more to a person than the difficulties they are facing. I want to get to know you beyond your symptoms: your story, the experiences and environment that have shaped you, but also your strengths and resources. To me, therapy is about seeing the whole person, not just the problem.

That’s why my approach is holistic and integrative: we explore what works best for you rather than following a one-size-fits-all method. I’m particularly interested in the mind-body connection, as our physical experiences can tell us just as much as our thoughts and emotions. While my work is grounded in scientific research and evidence-based methods, I make sure we leave enough room for your unique needs.

I hope to create a space where you feel genuinely heard, understood, and supported. A space where you can feel comfortable being yourself, while also feeling safe enough to explore new perspectives, challenge old patterns, and move towards meaningful change.

* Why this picture? This picture was taken at a cooking school during my travels around Thailand, a country very dear to my heart. It combines two things I love, traveling and cooking, and reminds me of how Thailand always makes me feel at peace, slow down, and enjoy the little things. 

Q & A

What do I offer?
Where?

In-person therapy in Leiden, or online

What is my sliding scale fee?

Based on your financial situation, 70€, 80€ or 90€ / hour
Company-paid sessions: 110€ / hour

How does this work?
  1. Reach out
  2. We then organise a consultation meeting to see if I can support you and if there’s a match
  3. From there we start therapy; working on moving towards your therapy goals

Contact Us

It’s ok to ask for help