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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 your way to our page for English-speaking psychological support in Porto. I understand what it feels like to be far from home. Expat life brings so many amazing 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 – it can all be incredibly draining. Especially when you're walking along the Douro and *saudade* washes over you, the homesickness can become overwhelming and you may feel uprooted. You are not alone.
As an online psychologist, I understand the unique difficulties that you face 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 keep popping up while queuing on the Ponte Luís I bridge, 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 Porto that can help you, as well as to introduce you to my online counseling services. This is specifically designed to support you as an English speaker abroad – no matter where you are or what challenges you're facing. Because sometimes you just need someone who really understands your situation and can offer you support and guidance.
I often hear the question: Sally, do you 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 that by taking care of myself. "Practise what you preach" is what I believe in. 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 snowboarding. 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 it.
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 Porto, there are several English-speaking psychologists who can provide you with professional support:
Dr. Kerstin Hoffmeister
Psychologist (English-speaking)
Rua de Costa Cabral 2351
4200-227 Porto, Portugal
As an experienced psychological psychotherapist, I offer you empathetic psychological online counseling. I understand how overwhelming adjusting to a new culture can be – when the Fado touches you, but your soul still cries, the social codes are different, and sometimes you can't even explain why you feel so foreign.
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 Porto, but to live 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 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 make appointments by e-mail. I look forward to getting to know you and working together to find a way for you to not just survive in Porto, but to really arrive.
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You can easily book your free introductory session through my online calendar.
In Porto, many English speakers experience challenges such as difficulties finding a job, especially if Portuguese is not spoken fluently. Finding accommodation can also be complicated. Social isolation is another problem, as it takes time to build a new social network. Cultural differences, especially regarding punctuality and direct communication, can also lead to misunderstandings.
For the job search: Focus on industries where English language skills are in demand (tourism, IT, export). Use online networks like LinkedIn and join English-speaking expat groups in Porto. For the housing search: Look for tips in expat forums or hire a local real estate agent. Against social isolation: Join English or international clubs in Porto, attend language courses, or volunteer. In case of cultural differences: Be open and curious, learn about Portuguese customs, and don't be afraid to ask questions.
One English-speaking psychologist in Porto is Dr. Kerstin Hoffmeister. Online counseling is another flexible option. Contact your health insurance company to clarify whether online counseling is reimbursed. Waiting times for an appointment may vary, so it is advisable to contact early. The costs for psychological counseling vary depending on the provider and scope of services.
Learn about Portuguese culture and lifestyle in advance. Actively engage with the culture by visiting local markets, taking Portuguese cooking classes, or celebrating traditional festivals. Seek exchange with other expats to share experiences and find support. Accept that it takes time to adjust to a new culture and be patient with yourself.
Maintain contact with family and friends at home through regular phone calls or video calls. Make your apartment cozy and personal to create a feeling of home. Discover the beauty of Porto and the surrounding area by taking walks along the Douro, visiting Livraria Lello or taking trips to the coast. Get involved in local clubs or groups that match your interests.
Language barriers can lead to frustration, misunderstandings and social isolation. Use language courses to improve your Portuguese language skills. Don't be afraid to ask questions or ask for help in everyday life. Use online translation tools to facilitate communication. Psychological counseling in English can help deal with the emotional impact of the language barrier.
Different communication styles (direct vs. indirect), different understandings of punctuality, and different ways of working (structured vs. flexible) can lead to conflicts. Be aware of these differences and try to understand the other person's perspective. Address conflicts openly but respectfully and try to find solutions together. In psychological counseling, we can work together to develop strategies to resolve intercultural conflicts constructively.
Updated on: March 30, 2025
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Sally Schulze 2025
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