Evelyn Bekooij-Westerhoudt

Evelyn started at the HU in 2005 as a lecturer in communication courses, and with research activities in the Government Communication Research group. Over the years, she has been a lecturer, trainer and course coordinator in courses, such as corporate communication, interpersonal communication, psychology, diversity skills, event management and research skills. In addition, she has coached students in their personal development, with their study progress, and during their internship and graduation assignment. She coached new colleagues, developed and designed various courses and was the chairperson of the Assessment Committee. Since 2021 she is a key member in the minor Mindful Communication, with courses such as mindfulness based stress reduction, connecting (non-violent) communication and professional practice.

Next to her activities at the HU, Evelyn works as a psychomotor therapist and psychologist in the specialised mental health care, with a special interest in psychological trauma, anxiety, problems regarding personality, and somatic symptoms. Furthermore, she works as a sports trainer, and occasionally trains women and adolescents in dealing with aggression and violence.

Evelyn studied Clinical Psychology, Mindfulness, Educational Sciences and Communication Management, and is qualified as a sports and empowerment trainer. 

• Communication
• Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction
• Professional Practice
• Graduation Process
• Student Coach

Professional publications

Vos, M., & Westerhoudt, E. (2006). Trendonderzoek overheidscommunicatie 2006; verschillen en overeenkomsten tussen de overheidssectoren. Hogeschool Utrecht.

Scholarly publications
Vos, M., & Westerhoudt, E. (2008). Trends in government communication in The Netherlands. Journal of Communication Management, 12(1), 18-29.

• MA Psychomotor Therapy, Windesheim (University of Applied Sciences) (2025)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, RINO Groep (2023)
• ParkinsonBoXing Coach, Rock Steady Parkinson Boxing EU (2022)
• BSc & MSc Clinical Psychology, with minor PMT (VU), Utrecht University (2021)
• Mindfulness trainer, Radboudumc Centrum voor Mindfulness (2021)
• Basic Qualification in Teaching Competency, HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht (2017)
• Trainer Dealing with Aggression and Violence, Bureau op Eigen Kracht (2015)
• Taekwondo Trainer, Taekwondo Bond Nederland (2012)
• MSc Educational Sciences, Utrecht University (2011)
• BComn Communication Management, HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht (2005)