Finding Therapists and Psychologists as an Expat in the Netherlands

Your Initial Step: Consulting Your GP ('Huisarts')

As with most healthcare in the Netherlands, your General Practitioner (GP) is the primary point of contact for mental health concerns. It is essential to register with a GP upon arrival. If you're struggling, schedule an appointment with your GP to discuss your symptoms and feelings.

Your GP will assess your situation and can:

• Offer initial advice and guidance, and suggest self-help resources.
• Refer you to a 'Praktijkondersteuner Huisarts Geestelijke Gezondheidszorg' (POH-GGZ), a mental health professional within the GP practice who provides short-term support for mild to moderate issues.
• Provide a referral to a specialized mental healthcare professional (psychologist or psychiatrist) if needed.

Types of Mental Health Professionals

Once referred, you might encounter different types of professionals:

• POH-GGZ (Primary Care Mental Health Assistant): For mild to moderate issues, often covered by basic insurance without affecting your 'eigen risico'. Offers short-term counselling and support.
• Psychologist (GZ-psycholoog, Klinisch Psycholoog): Trained to diagnose and treat mental health conditions through therapy. GZ-psychologen (healthcare psychologists) are recognized under Dutch law.
• Psychiatrist: A medical doctor specializing in mental health. They can diagnose, provide therapy, and prescribe medication. You need a referral to see one.
• Psychotherapist: May be a psychologist or psychiatrist with additional training in psychotherapy.

Finding English-Speaking Therapists and Psychologists

Finding a professional who understands your cultural background and speaks your native language can be incredibly helpful.

• GP Recommendations: Your GP often has a network of trusted English-speaking professionals.
• Online Directories:
  • NIP (Dutch Association of Psychologists): Their website might have a directory with language filters.
  • Zorgkaart Nederland: Allows you to search for psychologists and often indicates languages spoken.
  • Expat-specific Clinics: Some clinics (e.g., Expat Medical Centre) specialize in offering mental health services to the international community.
• Expat Communities: Ask for personal recommendations in local expat social media groups or forums.
• University Support: If you are a student, your university may offer counseling services or have a list of recommended expat-friendly therapists.

Insurance Coverage and Costs

Mental healthcare covered by basic health insurance typically falls under the 'Generalist Basic Mental Healthcare' (GBGGZ) for mild to moderate issues, and 'Specialist Mental Healthcare' (SGGZ) for more complex problems.

• POH-GGZ: Usually fully covered by basic insurance and exempt from your 'eigen risico' (deductible).
• Psychologists/Psychiatrists (GBGGZ & SGGZ): Covered by basic insurance, but costs will count towards your mandatory 'eigen risico' (€385 in 2025). Ensure the professional has a contract with your insurer if you have a 'natura' policy.
• Supplemental Insurance: Some supplemental packages may offer additional coverage for alternative therapies or a higher number of sessions not fully reimbursed by the basic plan.

Always confirm with your chosen professional and your health insurer about the expected costs and reimbursement details.

Waiting Lists and Online Therapy Options

Waiting lists for mental healthcare can sometimes be long, especially for popular English-speaking therapists. Your GP or a mental health support professional might be able to help you navigate these.

Online therapy has become increasingly popular and can be a good option, especially for expats. Many Dutch providers offer online sessions, and some platforms specialize in international clients. Check if these services are covered by your insurance.