Deborah Shaer
Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist & Counsellor
Expat Therapy and Counselling
Supporting ex-pat children, adolescents and young adults with compassionate, online therapy wherever life takes you.
Your Safe Space, Wherever You Are
As a child and adolescent psychotherapist, I understand the unique joys and challenges of living as an ex-pat. Whether you're navigating life in a new culture, dealing with feelings of isolation, or supporting a child adjusting to unfamiliar surroundings, I'm here to offer compassionate, professional support for you and your family—no matter where in the world you call home.
Why Choose Therapy as an Ex-Pat?
Living abroad can be an enriching experience, but it often comes with significant transitions and emotional challenges. For older children, adolescents and young adults, these changes can feel especially overwhelming. From adjusting to new schools and friendships to processing cultural differences or missing family and friends back home, it’s common for young people to experience:
- Anxiety and stress
- Difficulty settling into a new environment
- Struggles with identity and belonging
- Low mood or feelings of isolation
- Challenges with friendships or family dynamics
As a parent, watching your child face these struggles can be difficult.
First-Hand experience
I’m a qualified child and adolescent psychotherapist offering digital therapy services designed to meet the needs of ex-pat families. Having worked with children and families from diverse backgrounds, I understand the complex layers of emotional wellbeing, cultural adaptation, and family dynamics that shape the ex-pat experience.
Moreover, my first-hand experience of being an ex-pat as a young adult when I moved from London to Los Angeles provided me with a wealth of considerations. I also travelled for ten years living and working in different countries.
My Approach
I offer a warm, non-judgemental space for children, adolescents, young adults (up to age 25) and families to explore their feelings, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. I tailor sessions to each individual, ensuring therapy is engaging, effective, and aligned with your family’s needs. My approach is:
- Child-centred: Focused on understanding the unique perspective and experiences of your child or teenager.
- Culturally sensitive: Aware of the ways cultural differences and transitions impact emotional wellbeing.
- Flexible and accessible: Delivered online, allowing you to access support wherever your journey takes you.
How It Works
Sessions take place via a secure, confidential video platform, making therapy easy to integrate into your family’s routine—whether you’re at home, travelling, or based in a remote location.
- Initial Consultation: We’ll start with a conversation to understand your needs and determine if I’m the right fit for your family.
- Tailored Support: I’ll work with you and your child to create a personalised plan to address your goals.
- Regular Check-ins: Ongoing communication ensures we’re making progress and adapting to changes.
Wherever you are in the world, I’m here to help.
Reach Out
Your child’s mental health and happiness are vital. If you’re ready to take the next step, I’d love to hear from you. Together, we can create a path towards greater confidence, connection, and calm for your family.
Email me for your free phone consultation at therapy@plastikprizm.co.uk, or by using my secure online contact form.
My mission is to help children develop the confidence they need to rise above their perceived limitations, navigate emotional issues, build social skills, self-esteem and self-awareness, and tap into more joy.