🏳️‍🌈 Therapist Spotlight: Meet Hedwig Aerts, AMFT

3 hours ago
2 min read

Therapist Spotlight: Hedwig Aerts, Associate Marriage Family Therapist

Helping You Discover Your Strengths, Build Resilience, and Create Meaningful Change

At Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network, we're proud to highlight Hedwig Aerts, AMFT, a compassionate and insightful therapist who believes healing begins with curiosity, self-acceptance, and authentic connection. Hedwig creates an affirming, collaborative environment where clients feel safe to explore who they are, navigate life's challenges, and move toward lasting personal growth.

Drawing from a unique background as a former USA rugby player, educator, and organizational development professional, Hedwig brings a broad perspective to therapy. She understands that every person has strengths waiting to be rediscovered, even during life's most difficult transitions. Her approach is warm, empowering, and tailored to each client's unique experiences and goals.

Hedwig's Areas of Specialization

Hedwig works with adolescents, adults, couples, and families experiencing:

ADHD and neurodivergence
LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy
Queer, transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming clients
Couples using the Gottman Method
Family relationship challenges
Open, polyamorous, and ethically non-monogamous relationships
Athletes and sports performance
Recovery and life transitions
Anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and identity development
Cross-cultural experiences and belonging

A Collaborative and Strength-Based Approach

Hedwig believes that growth happens when we approach ourselves with curiosity rather than judgment. Her therapeutic style combines evidence-based approaches with genuine compassion, helping clients recognize patterns, embrace their strengths, and develop practical tools for lasting change.

She integrates:

Gottman Method for couples
Attachment-based therapy
Strength-based and client-centered approaches
Systems thinking to understand relationships and life contexts

Supporting Life's Unique Journeys

Whether you're navigating ADHD, exploring your identity, recovering from difficult experiences, strengthening your relationship, or adjusting to a major life transition, Hedwig provides an inclusive and supportive space where you can feel understood and empowered.

Her experience working with athletes and professionals facing major career transitions gives her particular insight into identity shifts, resilience, and finding purpose beyond previous roles.

Languages

Hedwig provides therapy in:

English
Dutch
French

Available Throughout California

Hedwig offers:

Virtual therapy throughout California
In-person sessions at Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network's Santa Monica office on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

If you're ready to begin your journey toward greater confidence and connection, Hedwig is here to help.