FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: What is relocation counseling?
Relocation counseling is a support service for anyone who has moved to a new culture or environment, usually involving relocating to a new country, or for people considering making a big move. It can help you prepare for both the emotional and practical challenges, and to better understand your new culture in order to feel integrated and at home. Relocation counseling is valuable at any stage as the emotional responses to a relocation and the need for connections are ongoing and ever changing. As you adapt and adjust to your new or not-so-new community, you will feel different, maybe surprising, emotions, so it is important to talk with someone who has a background in counseling but also experience in relocating, regardless of when you arrived in your community. Together we will come up with a plan so that you feel more connected and settled in your international life.
Q: Do you only provide relocation consultations to expats in Amsterdam?
I provide relocation counseling to international individuals, entrepreneurs or families anywhere in the world, although I live in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. If we're working remotely, we can’t do Walk & Talks and I won’t be able to recommend my favourite bakery in your neighbourhood, but otherwise my services are exactly the same!
Q: I already work with a relocation company - how is this different?
My services include counseling, emotional support, and helping people to build meaningful connections in their community. I leave the practical part of a relocation such as setting up bank accounts, finding an apartment, getting a visa and more to the specialists in those areas. I work along side you and your specialist and will provide emotional support as you go through the process. I am also here for you after you have settled, when the chaos has subsided and you may be thinking "now what!?"
Q: I don't need counseling but I'd love to pick your brain. Do I need to be unhappy to work with you?
Not at all! Many of my clients simply crave a conversation with someone who "gets it". It can be hard for friends at home to understand the expat experience, so a few sessions with me allows you to off-load and process your feelings about relocating. ​ I'm also often booked as a friendly face and empathic ear for new arrivals in Amsterdam.  We can even Walk & Talk - you’ll explore your new city and I’ll show you some of my favourite places, while sharing tips for a successful settling-in.
Q: Are you an education consultant for internationals relocating to the Netherlands?
No, but I can support you emotionally when deciding between International and Dutch school, and share our family experience with sending our son to a Dutch school. I don’t find schools for families or advise on education pathways, but I can recommend someone who does.
Q: I have been an expat/international for some time - is it too late for relocation counseling?
At any stage it can really help to get your thoughts in order with an outsider - especially one who understands the sense of insecurity that living in another country can create. For some people it takes a while for challenges to surface, for others, a job change or health scare can heighten feelings of being an outsider. Whatever your challenge, I provide a safe space to process your feelings, air your fears, and understand what’s blocking you. Plus if you’re in Amsterdam, my contacts book is always open - I’m confident I’ll have some recommendations relevant to your situation.
Q: I have the chance to move abroad but am struggling with the decision. Can you help me?
Yes, and I really encourage consultations with a relocation counselor at this stage. Talking to an impartial person who’s been in your shoes can help you clarify your feelings and feel more confident about whatever decision you make. I can help you unpack your fears, focus your thoughts, and also coach you on approaching tricky conversations about a potential move with loved ones.
Q: I'm moving back to my home country after many years as an expat. Is it silly that I feel I need support?
Not at all, the transition is just as big - and the expectations are often bigger. Starting over is always daunting - I can help you process your feelings about returning, create an action plan for success, and get in a positive mindset.
Q: Are you a fitness coach?
I’m not - I just love to move my body, know that movement helps with emotional health and wellbeing and love to encourage people to get out there! During my time as a clinical social worker I witnessed the power of exercise and movement in helping people to feel better, both emotionally and physically. While I support counseling and therapy 100% I always recommend that people move in combination with talking therapy.
Q: What does "Clinical Social Worker" mean?
It's a speciality practice area in the field of social work that focuses on mental health, emotional health and other behavioral disturbances. Guiding clients through changing circumstances and supporting them to make new connections are core skills that directly transfer to my relocation counseling practice. Individual, group and family therapy are common treatment modalities.