How Can You Access High-Quality Mental Health Therapy As An Expat?

expat network

How Can You Access High-Quality Mental Health Therapy As An Expat?

So you’ve taken the plunge and are living the dream in a new country, congratulations! But with great adventure often comes the need for a sturdy support system, especially when it comes to your mental health. Navigating foreign lands means more than just figuring out transit systems and translation apps—it’s also about finding your zen when you’re miles from familiar territory. But fret not, as this article will explore some lifelines for accessing high-quality mental health therapy as an expat.

Insurance Abroad for Mental Health

Sorting out insurance in a new country can be like cracking a secret code, but it’s super important. When you’re living the expat life, look closely at what your private health insurance covers—particularly therapy sessions.

Before you start fretting about costs, comb through that policy like a detective. Many plans cover mental health to some degree or offer discounts.

And if you don’t have fancy coverage, check if your job offers an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for free or cheaper counseling options.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) your workplace may offer is another hidden treasure for expats who want to access free or cheaper counseling options.

These programs are designed to help you out with personal problems, including feeling frazzled or stressed. They can hook you up with confidential counseling at little to no cost, so ensure you ask your HR team about this.

If there’s an EAP available, they’ll guide you through the process so you can start talking to a therapist without stressing over the bill. It’s one of those work benefits that sometimes fly under the radar but could be a total game-changer for your mental health abroad!

Find Local Therapists

Digging around for a local therapist who speaks your language can be like finding that one cozy coffee shop that just gets you. If you’re in a spot with other expats, chances are there are mental health pros itching to help out in English.

Head on over to Facebook groups or online forums specifically for expats in your area — it’s usually where the good word is spread. People share their go-to therapists like they would a sacred secret recipe. Plus, getting recommendations means you can skip the guesswork and dive straight into therapy with someone vetted by folks who’ve walked a mile in your shoes.

Tap Into Online Therapy

Online therapy’s the way to go if you’re craving the comfort of your old therapist back in NYC without having to teleport across the globe. Picture this: You’re unwinding on your new foreign digs’ couch, laptop open, diving deep into a session that feels just like home.

The good news is that you can find a lineup of folks from this directory of therapists in New York to help you navigate the mind mazes via video call or chat. It doesn’t matter if you’re sipping tea in Tokyo or lounging in Lebanon; mental support is just a click away.

Team Up with Support Groups

Ever feel like you’re on an island with your expat woes? Leaning into support groups can be the life raft that keeps you afloat. Connecting with others who’ve got the same “new kid in town” vibe going on is like finding your tribe.

Join online forums or local meet-ups where expats spill the tea on their lives abroad. It’s all about swapping stories, doling out advice, and maybe venting a bit—all over a cup of coffee or some cultural activity. Plus, it isn’t only good for your gray matter; these connections often blossom into friendships that can make any place start to feel a lot like home.

Casual Convos as Therapy

Lastly, a chat with a stranger or a casual acquaintance in an unexpected place unloads your mental backpack like nothing else. Imagine you’re chilling at the corner pub, and next thing you know, you’re in deep convo about life’s ups and downs with someone who just gets it.

Don’t knock these unconventional avenues for venting and advice. Whether it’s making small talk with the barista who knows your order by heart or joining that quirky local book club — these organic interactions can be unexpectedly therapeutic. Plus, they’re free and can sprinkle some feel-good vibes into your daily expat grind.

Moving Abroad Checklist

Initial Considerations

Will your partner be travelling with you?

If so, what will they be giving up in your present home and will they be able to continue with their career in your new home? You will need to check whether a separate visa is required for your partner to work or if your visa gives that right. If they are unable to work you will need to decide on the effect on your finances and what alternatives are available to give a fulfilling life (home business, training, voluntary work).

Are you taking family with you?

Moving with family raises many exciting opportunities, but also can create challenges. The HSBC Expat Explorer survey indicates that expat kids can take six months to settle in to their new country (see article). Getting young or even older children to prepare to move and leave their friends and family behind can be a challenge and should be thought through.

The options for education is another area that needs to be thought through.

Moving your child to a new country with a different education system can be a great opportunity to broaden their experience, but if they are close to key exams the timing can make this inadvisable. If you do take your family with you, it is important to decide between joining the local school system or choosing an international school.

Where will you be living?

Whether you will be living in a house or apartment, furnished or unfurnished, these decisions will affect what you need to take with you. The time you are planning to live overseas will also affect whether you should leave your property at home empty, rent it out or sell it. See the article Sell, Store or Ship.