About Me
Hi, I'm Andrew Kaufman, founder of The Schmidts Institute, a private practice for mental health counseling and wellness based in The Hague.
I'm a U.S.-licensed social worker with more than 16 years of experience helping people navigate life's challenges—from anxiety, burnout, and relationship difficulties to grief, parenting, and major life transitions.
Over the years, I've worked in hospitals, educational settings, nonprofit organizations, and international organizations, supporting individuals and communities through trauma, mental health crises, and some of life's most significant moments. Those experiences have shown me that while everyone's story is different, no one should have to navigate life's challenges alone.
When you reach out to The Schmidts Institute, you'll be working directly with me.
Education & Credentials
Licensed Social Worker (LSW) – State of Illinois, USA
License #: 150012601
Master of Science in Social Work (MSW) – The University of Texas at Austin, USA
Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology - The University of Arizona, USA
Over 16 years of professional mental health experience
Degree officially evaluated by Nuffic as equivalent to a Dutch HBO Master's degree in Social Work
The Schmidts Approach to Mental Wellness
Working on your mental health can feel like an overwhelming experience, but it doesn’t have to be. I believe meaningful change happens through genuine connection. That means showing up as a real person—not just a professional behind a desk.
My style is warm, conversational, and collaborative. I'll challenge you when it's helpful, sit with you in difficult moments, and, when the moment is right, probably make you laugh.
Because sometimes laughter isn't a distraction from healing—it's part of it.
We'll work together to understand what's keeping you stuck and find practical ways forward. Some sessions may leave you deep in thought. Others may leave you wondering how you ended up laughing while talking about something you thought you'd never be able to discuss.
I want counseling to be a place where you can be honest about what's difficult while also leaving with hope, perspective, and maybe even a story that makes you laugh later.
Practice Information
The Schmidts Institute is a private-pay mental health counseling practice serving expats, adults, couples, and families in English. Services are provided independently and are not part of the Dutch GGZ (geestelijke gezondheidszorg) system.
I am licensed as a social worker in the United States and am not registered under the Dutch BIG Act. The practice does not provide services as a BIG-registered psychologist or psychotherapist, and services are not billed through the Dutch basic health insurance system.
What You Can Expect
When we work together, you can expect:
A warm, welcoming, and judgment-free space
Honest conversations grounded in trust and respect
Practical strategies you can use in everyday life
Support that recognizes your strengths, not just your struggles
Room for both the difficult moments and the lighter ones
My goal is for you to leave each session feeling a little more grounded, a little more hopeful, and better equipped to navigate whatever comes next.
Let's Start the Conversation
Taking the first step can feel intimidating, but you don't have to have everything figured out before reaching out.
If you're curious about working together, I offer a free consultation where we can talk about what's bringing you here, answer any questions you have, and see whether we're a good fit.
I'd love the opportunity to meet you.