From Paris to London, A New Chapter as an Expatriate Psychologist and Coach

Moving country is never easy, especially with a family.

Five months ago, we left Paris to start a new life in London.
As a woman, wife and mother, this transition has been quite a CHALLENGE. In my case, the advantage I have is that being a psychologist and coach with more than 20 years around the world, I have the tools to go through the necessary mourning and take the changes as challenges.
Accompanying and giving my family the support they need to take advantage of this experience and transform it into an opportunity to grow is a luxury I can afford and enjoy.

Adapting to Change

Leaving behind friends and routines were some of the hardest things to cope with and the key to adaptation was to allow myself to feel what was happening to me in each moment and give myself time to put everything in its place.
Nostalgia and uncertainty “my great friends” were present again, the important thing was to manage them with patience, compassion, a lot of love, with oneself and with my husband and my girls.

Being faithful that this stage is also part of a “Divine Plan” give me strength and keep me hopeful in the most difficult times I faced.

Psychology in a Multicultural Environment

London offers a mosaic of stories and emotions from thousands of migrants and expatriates. And while it is true that expatriation can generate “reverse culture shock” and feelings of detachment, it also allows you to recognize all the resources you have and it is my vocation to support others in their adaptation process.

Tips for a Healthy Transition

What helped me and my family from the beginning of this new expatriation was:

– Establish routines to create stability.
– Encourage family dialogue about emotions and experiences.
– Build community, connecting with expats and locals.
– Accepting emotional ups and downs, without putting pressure on ourselves to adapt perfectly.
– Give ourselves the opportunity to look forward to and enjoy organizing our new home by finding opportunities to discover the city as well.

A New Beginning

Despite the challenges, London gives us the opportunity to reinvent ourselves. Expatriation is more than a geographical change; it is an experience of self-discovery and growth.