Meet Jan Peter Bolhuis, Trauma Therapist and Coach

Who am I?

I’m Jan Peter Bolhuis, proud father of three sons and a passionate therapist with a deep-rooted background in trauma-informed care and the psychotherapeutic method Compassionate Inquiry (CI) by Dr. Gabor Maté. Alongside my therapeutic work, I lead a UKF Close Combat Kenpo school and am wholeheartedly committed to care for the homeless and housing-insecure at Tussenvoorziening in Utrecht. My calling is to guide people who are stuck due to unprocessed trauma, negative patterns and destructive beliefs - so they can find their own way back to peace, vitality and an authentic life.

What inspired you to do this work?

My own journey shaped me into the therapist I am today. A turbulent childhood and unprocessed trauma took me far from myself. It was a long, intensive journey to reconnect with my authentic self - full of challenges, but also one that taught me to look at myself with compassion and curiosity. From that experience I support others in restoring that same connection, in a safe and respectful environment.

Why did you join Healing Grounds?

I joined Healing Grounds because I believe in the power of collaboration and multidisciplinary care. Here I work with other passionate professionals to create an environment where people feel truly seen and supported. Sharing expertise and exploring someone’s unique journey together aligns with my vision: recovery isn’t just about reducing symptoms, but about discovering who you really are.

At Healing Grounds I have the space to look beyond my own discipline. Every person is unique, and by working together with other specialists we create a broader and deeper perspective on what someone needs to grow. For me, Healing Grounds is more than just a place - it’s a mission: a safe haven where compassion, respect and growth are at the heart of everything.

What can people expect from your sessions?

In my sessions, safety always comes first. Everything you feel and experience is welcome. Together we explore which beliefs and patterns are influencing your life. I work with techniques such as:

• Compassionate Inquiry (CI),
• Internal Family Systems (IFS),
• Non-Violent Communication (NVC),
• ACT coaching and therapy (in training)
• CI Suicide Attention, and
• insights from Polyvagal Theory.

These methods help uncover deeper causes and support you in restoring your connection with yourself. My approach isn’t about ‘fixing’ your problems, but about creating a space where you learn how to support yourself and take steps towards balance, resilience and authenticity.

Working with me isn’t just about addressing your complaints - it’s about restoring your connection with who you truly are. Together we build a life in which you can stand in balance, with yourself and with the world around you.