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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
It's wonderful that you've found our page for English-speaking psychological support in Malaga. I truly understand what it feels like to be far from home. Expat life holds so many incredible opportunities, but it can also be an emotional rollercoaster. The longing for family and friends, the challenge of navigating a new culture – and perhaps even the Spanish bureaucracy – and the feeling of having one foot in two worlds, all of this can be incredibly stressful. Especially when the sun sets and you gaze at the city lights, the homesickness can become overwhelming and the feeling of being uprooted can take hold. You are not alone.
As an online psychologist, I understand the unique challenges that await you as an English-speaker abroad. It's often not just the obvious things like cultural differences or language barriers. It's the subtle nuances, the small misunderstandings that crop up in everyday life, and that feeling of identity loss that is so difficult to grasp and put into words. Perhaps you simply miss a familiar brand of tea or the way things are done "back home". I know how draining that can be.
My goal here is to show you both local resources in Malaga that can help you, and to introduce you to my online counseling. This is specifically designed to support you as an English-speaker abroad – no matter where you are or what challenges you face. Because sometimes you just need someone who truly understands your situation and can provide you with advice and support.
I often hear the question: Sally, do you ever take time for yourself? The answer is: Yes! As a speaker, expert, and entrepreneur, I'm passionate about women's health. But I don't burn out.
I manage to do this by taking care of myself. For me, it's about practicing what I preach. So, you'll find me not only at MentalStark, in TED-Talks, or podcasting. No. You'll also find me in Frankfurt cafes, by the lake, or on the snowboard. In the picture here on the right, I'm enjoying the sun and the fresh sea breeze. That's how I recharge my batteries and then get back to work full throttle.
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 English-speaker abroad deserve special attention and understanding, because life between two cultures brings unique challenges.
For in-person appointments in Malaga, there are psychologists who can provide you with professional support:
Dipl. Psychol. Monika Baumgartner
Psychologin (deutschsprachig)
c/ Velázquez, 2
Urb. La Mairena
29604 Marbella (Málaga)
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 you sometimes 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 issues are bothering you, or homesickness is weighing you down – together we will find ways for you to not only survive in Malaga, but to lead a fulfilling life. Imagine sitting on your terrace with a cup of Café con Leche, knowing that you are not alone with your feelings.
Even if you are in a relationship crisis – perhaps even with a partner from a different 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 call 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 arrange appointments by email. I look forward to getting to know you and finding a way together for you to not only survive in Malaga, but to really arrive.
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You can easily book your free introductory session through my online calendar.
Many English-speakers in Malaga struggle with feelings of isolation, especially if their language skills are not yet sufficient. The difficulty of finding a new routine, longing for familiar traditions, and adjusting to the more relaxed, but sometimes disorganized, Spanish lifestyle can also be stressful. Professional challenges, such as the recognition of qualifications or dealing with a different work culture, also play a role.
It's important to take action! Seek contact with other English-speakers or international groups in Malaga. There are numerous meetups, sports clubs, or cultural events. Try to learn Spanish, even if it's difficult at first. Accept that adaptation takes time and be patient with yourself. Plan regular trips to the surroundings of Malaga to discover the beauty of Andalusia and gain new experiences. And don't be afraid to seek professional help if you feel overwhelmed.
One option is Dipl. Psychol. Monika Baumgartner in Marbella. Another option is online counseling, which offers the advantage that you can speak to a psychologist comfortably from your home and in your native language. On my website you will find information about my offers and appointment scheduling. Waiting times for an appointment may vary, but it is often possible to arrange an initial consultation within a few weeks. The costs for psychological counseling in Spain are usually not covered by statutory health insurance, but there are private supplementary insurance policies that cover part of the costs.
Culture shock is a normal reaction to a new environment. Try to actively engage with the Spanish culture. Visit local markets, get to know Spanish cuisine and engage in local communities. Talk to other expats about their experiences and exchange ideas. And remember that it is normal to be homesick and that it is important to accept and process your feelings.
Homesickness is a feeling that many expats know. Plan regular phone calls or video calls with your family and friends back home. Create a piece of home in your new home by reading English books, listening to English music or cooking English dishes. Seek contact with other English-speakers in Malaga and get involved in local clubs or groups. Regularly visit places that are close to your heart, such as the beach, the harbor or the old town of Malaga.
Language barriers can lead to frustration, isolation and a feeling of helplessness. Use language courses to improve your Spanish skills. Don't be afraid to make mistakes and speak Spanish as often as possible. There are also numerous online resources and apps that can help you learn languages. If you feel isolated due to the language barrier, seek contact with other expats or seek psychological counseling in your native language.
Differences in the understanding of punctuality, in the way of working (English perfectionism vs. Spanish serenity) and in direct or indirect communication can lead to misunderstandings. Try to understand the Spanish culture and adapt to the local conditions. Be patient and tolerant of differences. Address conflicts openly and respectfully, but avoid direct criticism. Humor can help to reduce tension. And remember that cultural differences can be an enrichment.
Updated on: March 30, 2025
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Sally Schulze 2025
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