Have you moved to New Zealand from another country and found adjusting to your new life more challenging than expected? Perhaps you're missing familiar people and places, feeling disconnected or struggling to find your sense of belonging.
I'm Jana, a counsellor based in Whangarei. Having lived in Estonia, Sweden and New Zealand myself, I understand from personal experience that making a home in a different country can bring both opportunities and challenges.
I offer counselling for expats, migrants and people navigating cultural differences, life transitions and the emotional challenges of living abroad.
Adjusting to life in a new country
Moving abroad can affect many areas of your life, from your relationships and sense of identity to your everyday routines and expectations.
I can support you with concerns such as:
- Adjusting to life in New Zealand
- Homesickness and missing family or friends
- Loneliness and feeling socially disconnected
- Cultural differences and misunderstandings
- Finding a sense of belonging in a new environment
- Relationship difficulties involving different cultural backgrounds
- Stress, anxiety and uncertainty during relocation
- Changes in identity, confidence or personal expectations
- Navigating important life decisions while living abroad
You may have been in New Zealand for many years or only recently arrived. Either way, it's possible to experience difficulties that relate to living between different cultures.
My own experience of living across cultures
I was born and raised in Estonia and later lived in Sweden before making New Zealand my home.
These different chapters of my life have shaped how I understand people, relationships and the challenges that can accompany significant changes.
My own journey across cultures has given me a particular appreciation of how personal and individual the experience of moving abroad can be.
I also recognise that everyone's experience is different. What feels exciting and liberating to one person may feel uncertain or overwhelming to another.
In counselling, I want to understand your experience rather than make assumptions about what living abroad means to you.
Exploring your feelings and finding your way
Living in a different cultural environment can sometimes bring unexpected questions about who you are, where you belong and what matters most to you.
I believe that the relationship we have with ourselves influences how we experience the world and connect with others.
My counselling approach is solution-focused and draws on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), alongside person-centred methods.
Together, we can explore your thoughts, feelings and circumstances, including the patterns that may be making your situation more difficult.
I aim to create a warm, respectful and non-judgemental space where you can talk openly about your experiences, gain clarity and consider what might help you move forward.
Counselling in English, Swedish and Estonian
I offer counselling in English, Swedish and Estonian.
For some people, being able to speak about personal experiences and emotions in their native language can make counselling feel more natural and comfortable.
Whether you prefer English, Swedish or Estonian, you're welcome to explore your concerns in the language that feels right for you.
Expat counselling in Whangarei and online
I offer individual counselling from my private studio in Whangarei, as well as online sessions.
If you're living elsewhere in New Zealand or abroad, online counselling may also be an option.
Whether you're struggling to adjust to a new country, experiencing cultural differences in your relationships or simply looking for greater clarity and connection in your life, I welcome you to get in touch.
Would you like to know more or make an appointment? Please feel free to contact me.
Jana
Counsellor
Professional Member IAC
