As an experience expert, Rohan Karbet (36) is a signpost at CollegED, where he supports Amsterdam residents in developing their experience expertise. Prior to this, he volunteered at De Regenboog Groep: at publisher Tobi Vroegh and the Client Information Point (CLIP).
Unfamiliar doors
.
"During my college years, I suffered from anxiety and depression. I couldn't work or study, and at my lowest point, I could barely go outside. My life came to a standstill, while that of the people around me went on. With professional help and a lot of my own efforts, I began to feel a little better. I wanted to start doing something again. A coach appointed by the UWV suggested volunteer work. That's how I ended up at Tobi Vroegh's publishing company. Here I got the chance to work on beautiful and important stories of people who have experienced psychiatry from the inside, as well as on my own rhythm, self-confidence and possibilities.
Then a pathway coach at the Regenboog opened a door I didn't know existed: I was able to attend a training program to become an expert by experience. I could use my experience with vulnerability, anxiety and depression to support others. Simultaneously with this training, I volunteered at the Client Information Point (CLIP). Here I was allowed to set up my own weekly walk-in clinic, where people could go with all kinds of questions about housing, income, or just for a listening ear. I hadn't felt like I was in the right place since college, and I knew I wanted to continue. So when I saw the vacancy for a guide by experience at CollegED, I applied immediately.
.
From expert by experience to expert by experience
.
Since June 2023 I may support Amsterdammers who want to develop themselves as experts by experience. Together we examine which course, training or education is most appropriate at this moment: where is someone now and where does that person want to go?
.
My volunteer work at the Regenboog has contributed enormously to my recovery and positively influenced my life path. It has given me self-confidence, skills and opportunities. And it does me good that I can now also point others to doors and opportunities they didn't know existed."
Experience expert Rohan Karbet
Text: Rohan Karbet | Photography: Peter Lange
.