FAQ & Practical Info
Starting therapy can bring up questions. Everything is grouped below — from getting started to fees and insurance — so you can find what you need before you reach out.
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Getting Started
First steps, first sessions, and what to expect.
How do I know if I need therapy, or if my problems aren't "big enough"?+
There is no minimum level of suffering you need to reach before therapy is worthwhile. If something keeps recurring — anxiety, low mood, the same arguments, a sense of being stuck or far from yourself — that is already a good reason to talk to someone. Many expats wait until they are in crisis; you don't have to. A free 15-minute consultation is a low-stakes way to find out whether therapy could help.
How do I get started?+
Simply send a message through the contact page or book a free 15-minute consultation. We will briefly discuss what you are looking for, answer your questions, and schedule a first session — often within the same week.
What happens during the first consultation?+
The first session is a gentle exploration of what brings you in, your history, and what you hope to gain from therapy. There is no pressure to share more than you are ready to. Together we will discuss goals, the recommended approach (such as Schema Therapy, EMDR, or Gottman Method), and a rhythm that suits you.
Do I need a referral from my GP (huisarts) to start therapy?+
No. The Expat Practice is a private practice, so you can book directly without a referral from your GP. If you plan to seek reimbursement from an international insurer, we can provide the documentation some insurers ask for.
How long does therapy take, and how quickly will I see results?+
It depends on what you are working on. Focused goals can shift within a handful of sessions; deeper pattern work with Schema Therapy typically unfolds over several months. EMDR often brings relief from specific traumatic memories in relatively few sessions. We review progress together regularly so therapy never runs on autopilot.
Services & Approach
Schema Therapy, EMDR, Gottman Method couples therapy, and how we work with expats.
What services do you offer?+
The Expat Practice by Jordan is a private psychotherapy practice in Amsterdam dedicated to expats. We offer individual therapy — specialising in Schema Therapy, EMDR and trauma work, and anxiety — as well as couples therapy using the Gottman Method. Common themes include life transitions, identity and belonging, and the challenges of building a life abroad.
What is Schema Therapy, and how does it help break recurring life patterns?+
Schema Therapy looks at the lifelong patterns — in relationships, self-image, and coping — that were shaped early in life and keep repeating, even when you understand them intellectually. It combines cognitive, emotional, and experiential techniques to change these patterns at their root. It is especially helpful for long-standing anxiety, self-criticism, and relationship difficulties.
How does EMDR therapy work for treating trauma?+
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) uses bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, while you briefly revisit distressing memories. This helps the brain reprocess those memories so they lose their intensity and no longer intrude on daily life. EMDR is a well-researched, evidence-based treatment for trauma and PTSD, and we offer extended 90-minute EMDR sessions.
What can we expect from Gottman Method couples therapy if we are constantly fighting?+
The Gottman Method starts with a thorough assessment of your relationship's unique patterns, then gives you concrete tools to de-escalate conflict, repair after arguments, and rebuild friendship and trust. Constant fighting is often a sign of unmet needs underneath — the work focuses on understanding and addressing those, not just on arguing 'better'.
Can couples therapy help if we've lost emotional intimacy or feel like roommates?+
Yes. Emotional distance is one of the most common reasons couples seek help, and it is very workable. Using the Gottman Method, we map how the distance developed, rebuild daily moments of connection and appreciation, and work toward restoring intimacy at a pace that feels safe for both partners.
Do you offer therapy specifically for expats?+
Yes — working with expats is the heart of this practice. That includes the ordinary-but-heavy stuff: rebuilding a support network from scratch, cultural loneliness, relationship strain after a move, career transitions, visa stress, and questions of identity and belonging. Sessions are in English or Hungarian, in person in Amsterdam or online.
How many sessions will I need?+
It varies. Some concerns respond well to short-term work; deeper patterns call for more time. After your first session we will give you an honest, individual estimate and check in on it together as therapy progresses.
Fees, Insurance & Payment
What sessions cost and how payment and reimbursement work.
What are your fees per session?+
Individual therapy sessions (50 minutes) are €90. Couples therapy (90 minutes) is €150. Extended EMDR sessions (90 minutes) are €150. The introductory 15-minute consultation is free.
Does health insurance cover the treatment?+
The Expat Practice works on a private-pay basis, and many clients with international health insurance are able to claim reimbursement themselves. After each session you receive an itemised invoice you can submit to your insurer. Coverage depends on your policy, so we recommend checking with your provider in advance — we are happy to supply any documentation they need.
How do I pay for the sessions?+
Sessions are paid directly to the practice, and you receive a clear itemised invoice for every session — useful both for your own records and for any insurance reimbursement. Exact payment details are confirmed when we schedule your first appointment.
What is your cancellation policy?+
For in-person sessions at the practice we ask for 72 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling, because the office space is reserved specifically for your appointment. For online sessions, 24 hours' notice is sufficient. Sessions cancelled with less notice than this are charged at the full session rate.
Practical Details
Location, languages, confidentiality, and online sessions.
Where is the practice located?+
The Expat Practice by Jordan is based in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, with sessions by appointment. In-person and online sessions can be combined, which many expats appreciate when travelling for work.
Do you offer online therapy, and which platform is used?+
Yes. Online sessions are available and take place via Google Meet, so you can join securely from anywhere without installing an account — a link is all you need. Whether online therapy is clinically appropriate for your care is discussed during your consultation.
In which languages do you offer therapy?+
Sessions are offered in English and in Hungarian. Many clients find that being able to switch between languages — or simply not having to translate their feelings — makes a real difference in therapy.
Is therapy confidential?+
Yes. Everything you share is treated with strict confidentiality, in line with professional ethical guidelines and privacy law. Your information is never shared without your explicit permission, except in the rare situations where a therapist is legally required to act (such as a serious risk to safety).
How can I contact you?+
The easiest way is through the contact page on this website. Send a message and we will respond within one business day. You can also book a free 15-minute consultation directly.
How often will we meet?+
Most clients begin with weekly sessions to build momentum and trust. Over time, we may move to biweekly or monthly meetings depending on your needs and goals.
Still have questions?
We are happy to help. Send us a message and we will respond within one business day.
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