Dr. Lars Van Dijk, PhD

Dr. Lars Van Dijk is a leading expert in emotional and mental wellbeing, with over 18 years of experience in clinical psychology, research, and public education. He is dedicated to promoting evidence-based mental health practices, supporting emotional resilience, and providing actionable strategies for stress management, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence. Dr. Van Dijk combines rigorous scientific research with practical interventions to help individuals, families, and communities thrive.

Specialization

Clinical Psychology
Emotional Intelligence Development
Stress Management & Mindfulness
Adolescent Mental Health
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Education

2002–2006: BSc in Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Netherlands
2006–2008: MSc in Clinical Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
2008–2012: PhD in Emotional and Mental Wellbeing, University of Zurich, Switzerland

Professional Experience

2012–2015: Clinical Psychologist, Amsterdam Mental Health Center
2015–2019: Senior Researcher, European Institute for Mental Health Studies
2019–Present: Director of Emotional Wellbeing Programs, Mindful Europe Initiative
Consultant for EU Mental Health Policy and international NGOs

Selected Scientific Publications

Van Dijk, L. et al. (2021). "Mindfulness-Based Interventions for Reducing Anxiety and Stress: A Meta-Analysis." European Journal of Mental Health, 15(2), 110–132.
Van Dijk, L. (2018). "Developing Emotional Intelligence in Adolescents: Evidence-Based Practices." International Journal of Emotional Wellbeing, 10(3), 45–67.
Van Dijk, L., & Müller, K. (2016). "Innovative Approaches to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Online." Journal of Clinical Psychology, 72(4), 233–251.

Professional Memberships

European Association for Clinical Psychology and Psychological Treatment (EACP)
International Society for Emotional Intelligence (ISEI)
World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH)

Participation in International Projects

Lead Consultant, WHO Mental Health Promotion Initiative (2018–2022)
Project Director, European Mindfulness and Emotional Health Program (2019–Present)
Advisor, UNICEF Youth Mental Health Awareness Campaign (2017–2020)

Work on Educational Programs

Designer of “Emotional Resilience Curriculum” for high schools across Europe
Creator of online courses for stress management and mindfulness
Training workshops for educators and mental health professionals

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

Guest speaker on BBC World Service: “Building Emotional Strength in Teens”
TEDx Talk: “The Science of Emotional Wellbeing” (2020)
Regular host of the “Mind Matters” podcast

Unique Values and Experience

Dr. Van Dijk emphasizes practical, culturally sensitive approaches that integrate mindfulness, cognitive strategies, and emotional intelligence training. His international experience, spanning clinical work, research, and policy advising, gives him a unique perspective on creating scalable, effective mental health programs for diverse populations.