Start
Time
Details
Step 1 of 13
This questionnaire is intended to serve as a personal orientation for you. Your answers remain confidential and will not be stored – they are meant to help you better assess your current situation.
Psychological Psychotherapist (CBT) Sally Schulze
Welcome! We're so glad you've found our page for psychological support in Antwerp. We understand what it's like to be far from home. Expat life holds so many wonderful experiences, but it can also be an emotional rollercoaster. The longing for family and friends, the challenge of navigating a new culture, and that feeling of straddling two worlds—all of this can be incredibly taxing. Especially when the quiet settles in, homesickness can become overwhelming, leaving you feeling uprooted. You are not alone. In the vibrant city of Antwerp, nestled between the Grote Markt and the MAS, homesickness can feel particularly intense.
As an Online Psychologist, I understand the unique challenges you face as an expat. It's often not just the obvious things like cultural differences or language barriers. It's the subtle nuances, the small misunderstandings that pop up in everyday life, and that feeling of identity loss that's so hard to grasp and put into words. I know how draining that can be. The Belgian "joie de vivre" can be wonderful, but sometimes overwhelming, especially when you're not feeling up to it.
My goal is to show you both local options in Antwerp that can help you, and to introduce you to my Online Counseling. This is specifically designed to support you as an expat – no matter where you are or what challenges you face. Because sometimes you just need someone who truly understands your situation and can offer advice and support.
I often hear the question: Sally, do you take time for yourself? The answer is: Yes! As a speaker, expert, and entrepreneur, I am passionate about women's health. But I don't burn out.
I manage to do this by taking care of myself. The motto for me is: Practice what you preach. So you'll find me not only at MentalStark, in TED Talks, or podcasting. No. You can also find me in Frankfurt cafés, by the lake, or snowboarding. In the picture on the right, I'm enjoying the sun and the fresh sea breeze. That's how I recharge my batteries and then start again at full speed.
As a licensed psychological psychotherapist (CBT) and certified fertility counselor (BKiD), I bring more than 3,000 hours of experience in online counseling. My approach is based on appreciation and radical acceptance – I create a safe space where you feel understood and accepted.
In our collaboration, a trusting relationship is particularly important to me. Your experiences as an expat deserve special attention and understanding, because life between two cultures brings unique challenges.
Finding an English-speaking psychologist locally in Antwerp can be difficult. While there are many qualified therapists, most speak Dutch or French. Here are some points of contact and considerations:
Psychological Counseling in English: Since there are few or no English-speaking psychologists directly in Antwerp, online counseling can be a good alternative. This allows you to express yourself in your native language and receive support from someone who understands your cultural background.
Networks and Recommendations: Ask in English-speaking expat groups in Antwerp for recommendations. Sometimes other expats know therapists who at least understand English or have experience with expats.
As an experienced psychological psychotherapist, I offer you empathetic psychological online counseling. I understand how overwhelming adapting to a new culture can be – when the language sounds foreign, the social codes are different, and sometimes you can't even explain why you feel so out of place.
In my online counseling, we create a protected space where you can talk about all these feelings in your native language. Whether you feel torn between cultures, identity questions occupy you, or homesickness weighs you down – together we will find ways how you can not only survive in Antwerp, but lead a fulfilling life.
Even if you are in a relationship crisis – perhaps even with a partner from another cultural background – my couples counseling is a valuable support to build cultural bridges and find your way back to each other.
The 20-minute introductory meeting with me is free of charge. Check completely without obligation whether the chemistry is right and ask your open questions. You are also welcome to make appointments by e-mail. I look forward to getting to know you and finding a way together how you can not only survive in Antwerp, but really arrive.
Start
Time
Details
Choose one of the four options now:
You can easily book your free introductory session through my online calendar.
Many expats in Antwerp report challenges related to the Belgian job market, finding accommodation, and building social connections. Cultural differences, even subtle ones, can lead to misunderstandings and feelings of isolation. The Belgian tax system and bureaucracy can also be stressful. Specific anxieties can also relate to safety in certain neighborhoods.
It is helpful to actively engage with Belgian culture, learn the language, and get involved in expat groups. Sports clubs or cultural events can also help to make contacts. When looking for accommodation, it is advisable to seek advice from local experts and take your time. For professional challenges, coaching can be helpful to better understand the Belgian working culture.
Since there are few or no English-speaking psychologists directly in Antwerp, online counseling is a good option. You can make appointments on our website. Also, find out about the possibility of short-term therapies or counseling centers that may also work in English or Dutch if you feel comfortable with that.
Culture shock is normal. It helps to set realistic expectations, take time to explore the city and not be afraid to ask questions. Try to integrate both home and Belgian traditions into your life. Small rituals such as an English breakfast or visiting a Belgian beer festival can help you feel more comfortable.
Regular contact with family and friends at home is important. Plan visits or use video calling. Find activities in Antwerp that you enjoy, be it a cooking class, a museum visit or a walk along the Scheldt. Join expat groups and volunteer to make new contacts.
Language barriers can lead to frustration, misunderstandings and social isolation. Use language courses, tandem partners or apps to improve your Dutch. Don't hesitate to ask questions in conversations if you don't understand something. Online translation tools can help in everyday life. It is important not to isolate yourself, but to actively look for ways to communicate.
Expats are often perceived as more direct and structured, while Belgians tend to be more indirect and flexible. This can lead to misunderstandings in communication and everyday work. Try to observe and adapt to the Belgian way. Be patient and avoid judging too quickly. Talk openly about cultural differences and show interest in Belgian culture.
Updated on: March 30, 2025
You might also be interested in:
Individual Psychological Counseling Online
Couples Therapy Online - Convenient from Home
Coaching for Self-Employed and Entrepreneurs Abroad
Self-Test: Am I Suffering from Depression?
All our psychological self-tests
Copyright ©
Sally Schulze 2025
Emergency Help
In case of emergencies or severe psychological crises, please contact the emergency number 112 or the medical on-call service at 116 117.
Psychologist Online
Worth Knowing
Online Psychological Counseling
Schedule a free 20-minute consultation:
Wir nutzen Cookies
Diese Website verwendet Cookies, um die Benutzerfreundlichkeit zu verbessern. Hier können Sie mehr erfahren: WEITERLESEN.