"We don't see things as they are
we see them as we are"
Anaïs Nin
leadership
coaching
haptonomy
femke ottevanger
As a facilitator, coach and haptonomist I have an eye for movement and change. My working method is characterized by the alternation of lightness and depth, in which I guide people and organizations to work together more effectively, sustainably and also to act more consciously. My strength lies in getting what remains undiscussed on the table. In this way, patterns in organizations, teams or individuals can be broken and space can be created for new perspectives. With 25 years of experience, of which 14 years as an independent, I design tailor-made programs that translate awareness into concrete steps in practice. From my background as a haptonomist I make people aware of the intelligence of body and mind. This helps to steer your own course more sharply and also to better attune to your environment. With curiosity and commitment, I support others to strengthen their leadership and to find their way with care, both for themselves and their environment. I started working as a facilitator and coach in 2002 at De Baak, and 14 years ago I started my own business. After an inspiring period in Copenhagen, I settled in Rotterdam with my husband and three sons, where I continue my work with great enthusiasm.
My role? Making patterns visible, increasing awareness and providing direct feedback on the dynamics.
team coaching
A strong team builds on trust, self-awareness and open communication. To what extent is there sufficient challenge and is there genuine cooperation? Do team members address each other in a constructive way? As a team coach, I not only look at what is happening within the team, but also at the broader context, the underlying values: how does the organization work? What unwritten rules exist and what is needed to create movement? My approach is confrontational but safe, with an eye for humanity and connection. I do not shy away from sharp questions and help teams break out of fixed patterns. In doing so, I believe in experiential learning: not just talking, but especially doing and experiencing. Sometimes that means going ‘off the beaten track’—out of your comfort zone, experimenting, playing and discovering. It is often in the unexpected that the most insight arises. I work intuitively, with a backpack full of knowledge and experience, and connect with what the moment demands.
leadership
The world is constantly changing and that requires leadership that moves along, without losing the essence. A strong leader maintains a clear course, but remains flexible. He or she is in constant interaction with others, encourages, facilitates and inspires. Real leaders invite to take responsibility. People do not follow a title, but a person. A leader who stands for something, who is authentic, shows his or her true colours and communicates clearly. At the same time, we admire leaders who show vulnerability, who dare to ask questions and listen sincerely. In a world full of stimuli, that is no easy task - but that is precisely why it is essential. Our programs touch on deep-rooted patterns and old reflexes. Not a superficial development, but a transformation. A journey that not only changes you as a leader, but also as a partner, friend and family member. With years of experience at de Baak, 17 years as an independent trainer and haptotherapist, I have learned how valuable it is to remain curious, to dare to doubt, to ask questions and to investigate. I help you slow down, so that you can really listen – to yourself and to the world around you. Nature plays an essential role in this. In the silence, in the space, you will find answers that you will not find anywhere else. Let's go on a journey together!
Whatever you give attention grows
sometimes you are your own biggest obstacle
coaching & haptonomy
In addition to coaching teams and organizations, I also coach professionals one-on-one. Because of my background in haptonomy, I always look at the connection between body and mind (thinking-doing-feeling). The body does not lie and often provides more information than your head can think of. How do you connect with yourself and others? Sometimes you are your own biggest obstacle. Together we investigate patterns, look at your biography and the beliefs that color your view of the world. I ask sharp questions, stand by you and help you experience how you can create change. We work on clear steps and valuable insights to experiment with. Not by sticking to one method, but by looking at what really suits you. Sometimes that means an unexpected approach, a creative angle, or simply holding up a mirror. Questions that can be discussed: - Where is my limit and how do I recognize it? - How do I become more aware of what I feel and think? - How can I stand firmer for my vision as a leader? -What patterns are holding me back in my development? -How can I find and follow my own course?
expeditions
Once a year , together with Heske Ottevanger (cousin), I organize an expedition for a select group of participants, which offers the opportunity for self-examination and development of your personal leadership in the purity of nature .
Each expedition has a unique character and a central question that is worked on during the journey.
The most recent expedition was to Lapland, and this year we will leave for Scotland from June 13-18th.
So you want to know more?