About Lisette
Background
MSc Clinical Psychology · English & Dutch · Based in Marbella
Hi, I’m Lisette Scheenstra, a psychologist from the Netherlands, now based in Marbella.
I believe that therapy should be a place where you can speak openly, feel genuinely heard and explore what is going on without fear of judgement. My approach is warm, personal and collaborative. Together, we look at the patterns, thoughts and experiences that may be affecting how you feel, and work towards meaningful and sustainable change.
My journey
I grew up in the Netherlands with my parents and two brothers. Nine years ago, I made the decision to move to Spain, initially seeing it as a new adventure. Over time, Spain became home.
My own experiences have also shaped the way I work. From a young age, I faced personal and mental health challenges and experienced first-hand how valuable therapy and a supportive network can be. These experiences gave me a deeper understanding of how difficult it can be to ask for help — and how important it is to have someone who listens without judgement.
This also strengthened my commitment to mental health and to creating a space where people feel safe enough to be honest about what they are going through.
I don't believe there is one approach to therapy that works for everyone. You are the expert on your own life, and my role is to help you understand yourself better, develop new perspectives and find ways forward that feel right for you.
Education & professional experience
I hold a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, both from the Open University of the Netherlands. Before specialising in psychology, I studied Business & Economics at the University of Amsterdam.
My clinical experience includes cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), client-centred therapy and psychological assessment. I draw on evidence-informed psychological approaches while adapting therapy to your individual needs, goals and circumstances.
I have also been involved in psychological research in areas including:
- Burnout, proactive behaviour and personality
- Depression care and quality of life in older adults
- Chronic pain, self-discrepancy and loneliness
These experiences have broadened my understanding of the many factors that can influence mental wellbeing.
Psychology beyond the therapy room
Alongside my work at Lis Mental Care, I teach psychology in higher education. I have taught subjects including Neuropsychology, Cognitive Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, Social Psychology and Health Psychology.
Teaching allows me to stay closely connected to current psychological research and scientific developments, which I bring into my work with clients.
A personal and professional approach
I believe that professional knowledge and human connection go hand in hand.
Where appropriate, I may draw on aspects of my own experiences to help create an open and honest conversation around mental health. I do this thoughtfully and always with the focus on you and your needs.
My aim is to offer a space where you can feel understood, develop a better relationship with yourself and gradually build the confidence and resilience to move forward.
You don't have to have everything figured out before starting therapy.
Sometimes, the first step is simply having a conversation.