Couples Counseling |Madrid |Expats
- Persephone Protouli
- Apr 10
- 4 min read
Building Stronger Relationships:
Couples Counseling
in Madrid for Expats
When couples come to therapy, it’s rarely because things are terrible. It’s usually because things have become stuck—the same conversations going nowhere, the same silences growing heavier.
And when you’re living abroad, in a city that’s not quite home yet, it’s easy for stress to spill into your relationship.
Couples counseling in Madrid offers a space to look at all of that. The surface-level disagreements, yes—but also the patterns underneath. The misunderstandings that repeat themselves. The emotional habits that once protected you, but now get in the way.
couple counseling, Madrid, expats
---
Why therapy? Why now?
I don’t think couples need to be “in crisis” to benefit from therapy.
You can come in because:
- You’re having the same fight again and again
- You’re struggling to really hear each other
- You feel disconnected, even though you care
- Or because you want a space to check in, to feel more together again
As a therapist working with expats in Madrid, I also know that relocation brings a specific kind of pressure. You may be missing your language, your people, your rhythm. That kind of loss doesn’t always get talked about—but it does show up in relationships. Therapy can help you both make sense of what’s yours, what’s theirs, and what’s in between.
---
What’s it like?
Couple counseling isn’t about fixing one partner or figuring out who’s to blame.
It’s a space where we slow things down. Where I help you both speak—and listen—in a way that makes actual contact possible.
Sometimes it’s emotional. Sometimes it’s awkward.
But more often than not, there’s relief.
Because you don’t have to stay stuck in the loop.
---
Online or in-person, in English
I offer English-speaking couple counseling in Madrid and online couples therapy for those living elsewhere in Spain. Whether both of you are expats or one of you is local, we’ll work in a way that fits your context, your language, and your pace.
This isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. We’ll figure it out together.
---
If this speaks to you—or if you’re unsure, but curious—you’re welcome to get in touch.
No drama required. Just a willingness to look together.
---
Services Offered: what do I actually do?
English Speaking Psychologist: Though I also trained as a psychologist, I work from the stand point of a gestalt therapist. In Spain the law asks for foreign professionals to complete a homologation trajectory (it's a work in progress pending in my inbox). I work in English/ Greek/ Romanian with internationals, couples and individuals. I studied in Dutch, but I don't use it in my work.
Anxiety: I often work with younger generations that struggle with anxiety and/ or panic attacks, or professionals that are going through a burn out process.
Depression: I meet with patients that are in a depressive landscape.
Trauma: My biggest interest at the moment lies in working with people that have suffered through sexual trauma. At a later point in my career, I noticed that I have a capacity to carry such processes, and I truly enjoy the work itself, because it is gentle, trustworthy and actual. If you are struggling or have struggled in the past, please, do reach out. We don't have to rush to go into depths as soon as we meet. This work is very much about small moments, gentle relationship.
Online Therapy: I work online with my patients that live in The Netherlands, and with old patients that have moved to different countries. I am surprised to notice that it is very much possible to work online, though I do miss offering my patients a cup of coffee and chatting about my plants. Online therapy is focused and at times more demanding for the therapist, but I have all faith in that it functions. My own therapist is also in a different country.
Individual Counseling: I work with adults from 19 years old onwards. Usually individual therapy is weekly or biweekly, and lasts one hour.
Couples Therapy: Not all therapists enjoy working with couples, but a few years ago I discovered I actually really enjoy it. It is a rewarding way to work, seeing movement happening in the here and now. I find couples work challenging and creative.
FAQs
Is therapy confidential? Yes, confidentiality is paramount in therapy. Your sessions are private and secure.
How long does therapy take to see results?Oof, tough question. Define results. The duration varies depending on individual circumstances. With dedication and commitment, positive changes can occur gradually.
Is therapy suitable for everyone?Therapy is beneficial for anyone seeking support and personal growth. An unpopular opinion however: some people will just not find it to their taste. I don't think we should pressure everyone to see a therapist. It's like when people insist that ypi watch that one movie that changed their life; maybe its not the right time, or maybe its just not your kind of thing. "Support is that which enables", and that's not the same thing for everyone.
Can I switch therapists if I'm not satisfied?Absolutely. Your comfort and satisfaction are paramount. If you feel a different approach or therapist would better suit your needs, you're free to explore other options. Usually you will know if you click with your therapist from the first session. My advice is to leave it as soon as it feels off. You should leave that first session feeling touched, connected, challenged, inspired. Now later on, things change, and if you and your therapist are in good process together, you will often feel uncomfortable, or even annoyed at them. Then you actually can try staying, pushing through and bringing it up with them.
How can I book a session?You can whatsapp me at +34 613 104 681 or
email me at info@expatsintherapy.es or
through the contact form on my website www.expatsintherapy.es.
Comentários