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Psychological Psychotherapist (CBT) Sally Schulze
It's wonderful that you've found your way to our page for English-speaking psychological support in Zagreb. I understand what it feels like to be far from home. Expat life holds so many incredible 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 take its toll. Especially when the silence sets in, homesickness can become overwhelming and create a feeling of being uprooted. You are not alone.
As an online psychologist, I understand the very specific difficulties 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 repeatedly arise in everyday life, and that feeling of loss of identity that is so hard to grasp and put into words. I know how exhausting that can be. Imagine standing in Ban Jelačić Square, surrounded by a foreign language, searching for a piece of home.
My goal here is to show you both local options in Zagreb 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 support you with advice and action.
I always hear 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'm not burning out.
I manage to do this by taking care of myself. Here, for me, the rule is: Practice what you preach. So you will not only find me at MentalStark, in TED-Talks or podcasting. No. You can also find me in Frankfurt cafés, by the lake or on the snowboard. In the picture here on the right, I am enjoying the sun and the fresh sea breeze. This is 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 English-speaker abroad deserve special attention and understanding, because life between two cultures brings unique challenges.
Unfortunately, there are currently no English-speaking psychologists in Zagreb. The search for a suitable therapist can be particularly stressful if you already feel alienated and find it difficult to express your feelings in another language. Therefore, I would like to show you alternative ways to receive psychological support in English.
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 traditional "Kafenes" are different, the social codes are different, and sometimes you can't even explain why you feel so alienated.
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 are bothering you, or homesickness is burdening you – together we will find ways how you can not only survive in Zagreb, 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 Zagreb, but really arrive.
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You can easily book your free introductory session through my online calendar.
In Zagreb, many English-speakers experience mental stress due to the labor market, which is often more insecure than in their home countries. Difficulties in finding accommodation and social isolation exacerbate these problems. Cultural differences, particularly with regard to bureaucracy and interpersonal relationships, can also cause stress.
It is important to set realistic goals and adjust expectations. Building a social network, whether through English-speaking clubs, sports groups or language courses, helps against isolation. With cultural differences, it can be helpful to be open and curious and to learn local customs. Professional psychological counseling can help reduce stress and develop new perspectives.
Since there are very few English-speaking therapists in Zagreb, online counseling is a good alternative. There are various platforms that offer English-speaking psychologists. Inquire about the costs and whether your health insurance covers part of the costs. Waiting times may vary, so it is advisable to make an appointment early.
Culture shock is normal and often manifests itself in feelings of confusion, frustration and homesickness. It is important to take time to understand the new culture and not to overwhelm yourself. Seek contact with other expats who have had similar experiences. Try to discover positive aspects of Croatian culture, such as hospitality and the relaxed way of life.
Regular contact with family and friends can help maintain a sense of connection. Get involved in local clubs or groups that match your interests. Zagreb offers many opportunities to be active, be it in sports clubs, art groups or at cultural events. A walk along Lake Jarun or a visit to the Dolac market can also help you feel more comfortable in the city.
Language barriers can lead to misunderstandings, frustration and social isolation. It can help to take a language course and actively try to learn Croatian. There are also tandem partner programs where you meet with a native speaker to practice the language. Don't be afraid to ask for help and use online translation tools to facilitate communication.
Often there are misunderstandings due to different communication styles. English-speakers are often more direct and structured, while Croatians are more indirect and flexible. It is important to be patient and engage with the other communication style. Another difference lies in punctuality and the importance of time. Here it can help to adapt to the Croatian way of life and to be a little more relaxed. Try to understand the cultural differences and see them as an enrichment.
Updated on: March 30, 2025
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Sally Schulze 2025
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