Roots & Wings Academy
Supporting internationals to enhance their
well-being and success
in their diverse cultural contexts
Hi, I am Elif Durgel, a coach, psychologist, and trainer specializing in intercultural skills, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and the well-being of international professionals and families.
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Through Roots and Wings Academy, I support expats, international parents, and globally mobile professionals in navigating cultural transitions, strengthening their identities, creating meaningful balance between work and life (and parenting), and thriving in professional, social, and parenting domains.
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My work is grounded in both academic expertise and lived experience. I hold a PhD in Cross-Cultural Psychology from Tilburg University and a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Utrecht University as well as one in Developmental Psychology from Koc University. I’ve lived and worked in Germany, the Netherlands, the USA, and Turkey, and I bring this multicultural lens to all of my coaching, workshops, and trainings.
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In addition to running Roots and Wings, I work at Tilburg University, where I support university teachers to create more inclusive classrooms and facilitate sensitive, impactful learning environments.
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At the heart of everything I do is the belief that well-being, belonging, and growth are deeply connected to cultural understanding and community, and I’m here to help people rebuild those connections with confidence and care.​​
Services
For Parents – Family Support
Raising children can feel overwhelming at times - especially during times of cultural change and life transitions; but you don’t have to figure it out alone. I support parents in understanding their children’s emotional needs, building resilience and strong connections, and creating a calm, confident home life that reflects their values.
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1:1 coaching for parents
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Workshops on child development and parenting
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Support for raising third-culture kids (TCKs)
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Guidance through significant transitions such as divorce or adoption
For Individuals - Emotional Well-being & Personal Growth
Transitions like moving to a new country, starting over professionally, pregnancy, or navigating identity shifts can impact your well-being, confidence, and sense of self. I offer a safe space through counseling and coaching to help you reflect, increase your well-being, reconnect with your values, manage stress, and explore your options for growth.
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Individual counseling or coaching sessions
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Group workshops on values, reestablishing your network and identities, boundaries, assertiveness, and work-life balance
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Support groups for women and parents
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Support for emotional resilience, confidence, and belonging in a new culture
For Institutions and Companies – Diversity & Inclusion
I offer training and coaching focused on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) and intercultural competences. These services are tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of my clients, whether at the individual, team, or organizational level, ensuring they leave with practical and applicable tools and skills.
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Workshops and talks on inclusive practices, intercultural skills, psychological safety, neurodiversity etc.
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In-company group coaching
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Tailored training for schools, universities, and daycares towards more inclusive educational environments
I look forward to supporting you or your organization!
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