Dr. Zsofia Margittai
Change from many perspectives - an approach that benefits from versatility
My approach is based on a combination of experience in the private sector, scientific research, and clinical psychotherapy. This interdisciplinary experience enables me to develop a customized and creative solution for each client. I combine analytical clarity with psychological sensitivity, taking structural and economic aspects into account, to enable sustainable change—always with a focus on my clients' personal strengths and goals.
Why am I the right partner for you?
Dual expertise: I combine psychological expertise (psychotherapist with behavioral therapy) with extensive business experience (10 years in the private sector, including management positions). This enables me to understand psychological processes not only individually, but also in a business and organizational context.
Scientifically based approach: My methods are based on evidence-based psychology and a doctorate in neuroeconomics.
Stress & decision-making as core competencies: The influence of stress on behavior is a highly relevant topic for managers, companies and individuals in stressful phases of life.
Didactic experience: Through my teaching and supervision activities, I have experience in conveying knowledge.
Internationality & Multilingualism: My multicultural background and my language skills in German, English and Hungarian prepare me for a broad target group.
Supervisor for doctors and treatment teams: I not only have professional depth, but also the ability to guide and develop other experts
I am familiar with the following methods:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
CBT is helpful as a coaching approach because it supports clients in identifying and changing negative thought patterns in order to positively influence their behavior and emotional responses. This helps them develop effective coping strategies to better manage challenges and enhance their overall well-being.
Systemic Therapy:
This approach focuses on the interactions and interconnections within systems (such as family, teams, or organizations). Systemic coaching does not only consider the client's individual behavior, but also their relationships and the environment in which they operate. Clients often recognize recurring patterns in their relationships or behaviors that may cause or intensify their problems. Systemic coaching helps identify these patterns and develop healthier behaviors by analyzing the underlying dynamic structures in the client’s environment. The emphasis is on solution-oriented approaches. Rather than focusing solely on problems and their causes, systemic coaching actively explores ways to initiate change within the whole system to achieve desired goals.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT):
ACT is highly useful in coaching, as it helps clients focus on their core values and embrace change without being dominated by unpleasant emotions or thoughts. Through ACT, clients learn to accept their internal experiences (such as fear, worry, or negative thoughts) rather than trying to avoid or control them. At the same time, they are encouraged to focus on what truly matters to them in life and take committed actions aligned with those values. In a coaching context, ACT enhances psychological flexibility, meaning clients learn to stay calm during difficult situations while continuing to act in line with their goals. It is especially helpful for people going through change or transition, as it supports proactive and value-based responses to life’s challenges.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT):
DBT knowledge is applied in coaching to help clients better regulate their emotional responses, improve interpersonal relationships, and develop healthy coping strategies. Techniques such as mindfulness, emotion regulation, and the ability to "balance between extremes" in challenging situations help clients remain calm and focused under stress. DBT also emphasizes accepting one’s current reality while striving for change, which is highly valuable for clients seeking positive transformation in their lives.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing):
In a coaching context EMDR is a resource-oriented method used to help clients process limiting beliefs, emotional blocks, or stressful memories that may hinder personal or professional development. Unlike its clinical use for trauma therapy, EMDR in coaching focuses on enhancing performance, building resilience, and unlocking potential by reprocessing past experiences that may subconsciously affect present behavior.
Autogenic Training (AT):
This is an effective method for reducing stress and promoting both physical and mental relaxation. Autogenic Training is based on self-hypnosis techniques, where clients use specific, repeated phrases (such as “My right arm is very heavy”) to enter a deep state of relaxation. This helps to calm the body and mind, reduce anxiety, stress, and sleep issues, and enhance overall well-being.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR):
In this technique, specific muscle groups are systematically tensed and then relaxed in sequence to release physical tension and reduce stress.
Meditation and Mindfulness:
These methods enhance focus and help calm the mind by encouraging clients to stay present and observe their thoughts without judgment. They can be integrated into coaching sessions to help clients improve their stress management skills and foster a greater sense of control and calm in their lives.
CBASP (Cognitive Behavioral Analysis System of Psychotherapy):
Originally developed for the treatment of chronic depression, CBASP can be helpful in coaching by supporting clients in understanding the connections between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is especially effective in helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns that may negatively affect their behavior in interpersonal or professional situations. In coaching, CBASP assists in recognizing often unconscious behavior patterns and reflecting on their impact on daily life and success. It promotes self-awareness and personal responsibility by encouraging clients to question their behavior in certain contexts and develop alternative, healthier responses. This enables clients to gain more control over their emotions and actions and improve their quality of life. CBASP also strengthens social skills and empathetic communication, which is particularly beneficial in the workplace or in personal relationships. It helps clients break out of rigid thought patterns and actively work toward improving their lives and relationships.
Nonviolent Communication (NVC) by Marshall B. Rosenberg:
This is a communication approach aimed at fostering empathetic and respectful dialogue to resolve conflicts and improve relationships. The focus is on clearly expressing one's own needs while also understanding and respecting the needs of others. In coaching, NVC can help improve clients’ communication skills, especially in stressful or conflict-laden situations, and promote respectful, open interaction.