“Former patients don’t ask for special treatment—they just want to be heard”: Job coach Leen on returning to work

“During your treatment, you receive great support, but afterward you often find yourself facing a precipice,” says Leen. “I want to provide the same kind of support on a mental level that physical therapists and rehabilitation centers provide on a physical level.” For Leen, who is from Limburg, it’s all about connection and communication. It’s not about focusing on limitations, but rather on talents, sources of energy, and potential for growth. “Many people feel insecure after their treatment or feel they are no longer the same person they were before. That’s when it’s important to have someone who really listens and helps them explore what is still possible.”

When Leen was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019, she chose to continue working throughout her treatment. Not only because she was self-employed, but also because work served as a source of stability and a form of therapy for her. “I felt it was important to stay active and, above all, to avoid becoming isolated.”

It’s striking that Leen never referred to her illness as “cancer,” but as “Specia(a)l K.” “That was and still is my way of dealing with it, and it works for me.” Her online Specia(a)l K sessions also emerged from that personal experience, focusing on connection, mental support, and recognition for people walking the same path.

In addition, Leen also offers online sessions for employers who are dealing with employees on long-term sick leave. “Former patients don’t ask for special treatment, just that someone listen to them. And employers often want to help, but don’t always know how to handle such a situation. What should you say—and what shouldn’t you say? How do you stay in touch? How do you guide someone back to the workplace in a supportive and realistic way? I’m happy to support them in that.”

After having supported more than fifty employees through this process, Leen has noticed that illness doesn’t just have a physical impact; it also brings about significant changes mentally and professionally. “People often view their lives and work differently after such a period. That’s why open communication is so important—from both the employee and the employer.”

What at first felt like the sky was falling on her head eventually changed her own life as well. “I finally learned to take care of myself—to ask for and accept help. That was perhaps the biggest lesson I learned.”

“I finally learned to take care of myself—to ask for help and to accept it. That was perhaps the most important lesson I learned.”

Leen is also a certified coach for the RIZIV’s “Back to Work” voucher. This voucher can be used in cases of long-term illness and supports people who want to take steps toward returning to work and improving their well-being. Through this guidance, Leen helps clients rediscover a sense of purpose in a feasible, sustainable, and people-centered way. Today, she uses her experience and knowledge to support others and help them regain their strength. With a warm, human approach, she wants to convey one message above all: you don’t have to do it alone.

Pink Power Walk

Since the spring of 2026, Leen has been expanding her work as a walking coach at Pink Ribbon. With her group, Pink Power Walk, she aims not only to get people moving, but also to create a warm and safe space where connection is key.

“The idea is to walk together, talk, and be there for one another,” says Leen. “I don’t want to create a place for complaining and whining, but rather an environment where people feel understood and can support one another. Sometimes a walk and a listening ear help more than words alone.”

From her own experience, Leen knows how important it is not to feel alone during and after an illness. That’s why she combines exercise, social connection, and coaching in an accessible way. “Who knows—maybe during those walks I’ll meet people whom I can later help as they return to work or regain their balance.”

Even in the midst of all the hustle and bustle, Leen tries to set boundaries and consciously make time for rest. “I have time for work. I have time for us. And I have time for me. That way, I don’t waste energy, but can distribute it evenly. It reduces stress and ensures that I don’t feel guilty toward others or myself. For me, that’s the ideal balance.”

“Every day is different, and it’s very important to be attuned to your limits and, above all, to communicate them. ‘How are you today?’ is an important question I ask both my clients and myself. Because I, too, have had to learn to set my own boundaries, and that’s something I’d like to pass on through my coaching.”

More info:
🌐 www.leengoossens.be
📩 info@leengoossens.be
📞 0495 64 57 96

Or would you like to join Leen’s walking group? Then check out the page for Pink Power Walk.