Expat Counseling
Moving to a new country or region is a significant transition, and counseling can play a vital role in helping expats adjust to their new surroundings. Each culture has its own unspoken norms, habits, and rituals, which can take time to fully understand. Often, we interpret a new culture through the lens of our own, leading to misunderstandings that can make us feel unsettled or out of place.
Relocating from one’s home country is a major step, requiring expats to essentially start from scratch. It typically takes about 18 months to evaluate whether the move was a good decision and many more years to truly understand the nuances of the new culture. This is further complicated by the presence of various subcultures within every society. Social integration can also be challenging, as people often have established circles of friends, and gaining acceptance as an outsider can be difficult—especially if you are not fluent in the local language. For expats who are working, the adjustment can be even more challenging. The lack of familiar reference points and the constant need to navigate new environments can make it difficult to feel at ease. This often contributes to a high rate of burnout among high-achieving expats—a phenomenon that is both significant and understandable. Counseling offers valuable support by fostering a deeper understanding of both your own perspective and the culture of your new environment. In my sessions, you will find a compassionate listener and practical guidance to make your journey easier. Over time, this process can significantly broaden your outlook and help you feel more at home in your new country. If you desire regular and/or couples counseling these are both my specialties. You can find more information under Individual and Couples. If you like to understand my method of work you can read my client’s feedback under Testimonials.
About Me
I was born in the Netherlands, lived in Rome for a year, and at the age of 29, moved to the United States, where I lived for 33 years. In 2022, I returned to Amsterdam. I have been a psychotherapist in private practice for over 20 years, working with clients from culturally diverse backgrounds.
I offer counseling sessions in both English and Dutch. The first session is a complimentary introductory meeting to help you determine whether you would like to work with me and for me to assess how I can best support you.
