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Psychological Psychotherapist (CBT) Sally Schulze
It's wonderful that you've found your way to our page for German-speaking psychological support in Cologne. I understand what it feels like to be far from home, even if Cologne may not be "abroad" in the traditional sense. But even as someone who has moved here, an expat, or someone returning, life in a new or changed environment can be a rollercoaster of emotions. The challenges of settling into the Cologne way of life, the distance from your old home, or dealing with new professional perspectives - all of this can really test your nerves. Especially when the carnival season is over and everyday life sets in, homesickness for the familiar can become overwhelming and the feeling of being uprooted can arise. You are not alone.
As an online psychologist, I understand the very specific difficulties that await you as a German in Cologne. It's often not just the obvious things like integrating into the Cologne culture or finding an apartment. It's the subtle nuances, the small misunderstandings that keep cropping up in everyday life, and that feeling of identity loss that's so hard to grasp and put into words. I know how exhausting that can be.
My goal here is to show you both local options in Cologne that can help you, and to introduce you to my online counseling. This is specifically designed to support you as a German in Cologne - no matter where you are right now and what challenges you are facing. Because sometimes you just need someone who really understands your situation and can help you with advice and support.
I keep hearing the question: Sally, do you also 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. Here, the following applies to me: Practise what you preach. So you will find me not only at MentalStark, in TED Talks or podcasting. No. You can also find me in Frankfurt cafés, by the lake or on a snowboard. In the picture here on the right, I'm enjoying the sun and the fresh sea breeze. This is how I recharge my batteries and then start all over again.
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 in Cologne deserve special attention and understanding, because life in this city brings unique challenges.
For in-person appointments in Cologne, there are several psychologists who can provide you with professional support:
Dipl.-Psych. Semra Firat-Deveci
Psychologische Psychotherapeutin
Herzogstrasse 22-24
50667 Köln
Julia Hoffmann-Schäfer
Psychologische Psychotherapeutin
Psychologische Online Psychotherapie
Emsdettener Str. 10
50667 Köln
Dr. Alexa Schneider
Psychologische Psychotherapeutin
Kolumbastraße 5
50667 Köln
As an experienced psychological psychotherapist, I offer you empathetic psychological online counseling. I understand how overwhelming it can be to adjust to a new life situation in Cologne – when finding an apartment is difficult, integrating into new social circles is challenging, and you sometimes don't feel like you belong.
In my online counseling, we create a safe space where you can talk about all these feelings in your native language. Whether you feel out of place at the Cologne Carnival, identity questions are bothering you, or homesickness is weighing you down – together we will find ways for you to not only survive in Cologne, but to lead a fulfilling life.
Even if you are in a relationship crisis – perhaps even with a partner who experiences the Cologne mentality differently – 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 email. I look forward to getting to know you and finding a way together so that you can not only survive in Cologne, but really arrive.
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You can easily book your free introductory session through my online calendar.
Many newcomers to Cologne experience challenges such as finding accommodation, integrating into social life, adapting to the Cologne dialect and mentality, as well as professional stress in the dynamic working world. The feeling of being uprooted and homesickness for the old home can also play a role.
To avoid isolation, it is recommended to actively make social contacts. Visit Cologne regulars' tables, get involved in clubs (e.g. carnival clubs or sports clubs), take part in city tours or visit local events. Contact with other newcomers can also be helpful to exchange experiences and support each other.
In addition to the psychologists already mentioned in Cologne (Dipl.-Psych. Semra Firat-Deveci, Julia Hoffmann-Schäfer, Dr. Alexa Schneider), my online counseling offers a flexible and location-independent alternative. Waiting times for a therapy place in Cologne can vary, so it is advisable to arrange an appointment early. The costs for psychological counseling are usually covered by private health insurance companies or additional insurance. It is best to inform yourself in advance with your health insurance company.
Even within Germany, moving to a new city can trigger culture shock. To deal with this, be open to the Cologne culture and mentality. Learn the dialect, try local specialties (Kölsch!), and embrace the Cologne way of life. At the same time, it is important not to forget your own roots and to maintain contacts with your old home.
To alleviate homesickness, you can consciously maintain rituals from your old home, e.g. cook certain dishes or celebrate traditional festivals. Also visit places in Cologne that remind you of your home (e.g. parks, museums). Talk openly about your feelings with friends, family, or a therapist. Try to actively get involved in Cologne life and make new friends.
Language barriers can lead to misunderstandings, frustration and social isolation. If you don't understand the Cologne dialect, ask your conversation partners to speak standard German or explain certain expressions to you. You can also attend a language course to improve your knowledge of the Cologne dialect. Don't be afraid to ask if you don't understand something.
Cologne residents are often considered more open, cheerful and tolerant than people from other regions of Germany. Conflicts can arise if newcomers perceive the Cologne mentality as superficial or unreliable, or if Cologne residents have the impression that newcomers are too serious or inflexible. To avoid conflicts, be tolerant of other opinions and behaviors. Try to understand the Cologne mentality and adapt to it. Address conflicts openly and respectfully. Humor can often help to defuse tensions.
Updated on: March 30, 2025
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Sally Schulze 2025
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