In a warm, open space, I guide you through expat stress, overwhelm & self-esteem issues. Using CBT & ACT-based approaches, I support women & bi-cultural couples (DE/ES/PT) in my global online practice.
Welcome, I am so glad you are here! My name is Karla Peh, and I am a licensed psychotherapist (CBT) and psychologist (M.Sc.). Since 2019, I have been supporting individuals in overcoming daily challenges, gaining new perspectives, and leading a self-determined, values-driven life.
Living abroad can be a thrilling adventure, but it also comes with its own unique, often invisible challenges: culture shock, feeling uprooted, or the constant pressure to adapt. Through my own personal journey, I am deeply familiar with both the daily reality and the hurdles of living in and between different cultures. Growing up in a German-Colombian family, I know firsthand what it feels like to stand between two worlds. Driven by curiosity, I have spent significant chapters of my life studying, training, and working abroad since my school days—including enriching experiences living in Portugal, Brazil, and Colombia.
As an online therapist, I specialize in supporting expats and individuals navigating life between cultures during these intense chapters of life. Whether you are dealing with chronic stress, homesickness, or trying to rebuild your self-esteem in a new environment, I provide a safe, location-independent space where you can land softly and be truly yourself.
Another core focus of my work is couples counseling for bi-cultural partners. When different backgrounds, communication styles, and values collide, it requires delicate translation and deep mutual empathy. I help couples bridge the gap, transforming cultural differences from sources of friction into shared strengths, so you can reconnect on a deeper level.
I am pleased to offer counseling flexibly in German, Spanish, and Portuguese. Seamlessly switching between these languages during our sessions is welcome at any time.
My Website: www.la-brisa.de
In my work, I support individuals in overcoming daily challenges, gaining new perspectives, and leading a self-determined, values-driven life. My approach is rooted in providing a warm, non-judgmental space where I offer both acute relief during difficult times and empower you to develop sustainable strategies for dealing with difficult emotions and life situations. I primarily integrate elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Together, we will examine patterns of thought and behavior shaped by your personal history, while working in a solution- and resource-oriented manner to address current challenges. Much like a fresh breeze (La Brisa), our online collaboration is meant to help you breathe easier and regain your inner strength. Common focus areas in my practice include: Self-Esteem & Confidence: Strengthening your sense of self-worth and building renewed trust in your own abilities. Self-Compassion: Learning to treat yourself with greater kindness and understanding, especially when facing your inner critic. Exploring Cultural Values: Navigating and reflecting on your own cultural values and conditioning (particularly within expat life or bi-cultural partnerships). Living a Values-Driven Life: Gaining clarity on what truly matters to you and aligning your daily actions with those core values. Challenges Abroad: Managing high stress, overwhelm, homesickness, or identity crises during major life transitions. Our Process (Individual & Couples Counseling): Following a free initial consultation (15 min.), we will schedule an in-depth first session to thoroughly understand your unique background, personal history, and current challenges. After that, we usually meet online every 1–2 weeks (50 min. for individual sessions / 75 min. for couples counseling), working in a goal-oriented and practical manner. The overall number of sessions depends entirely on your individual needs. Sessions usually take place weekly, especially at the beginning of our work together. Toward the end of the process, we often schedule longer intervals between appointments. Some of my clients also benefit from occasional "refresher sessions" after completing their regular process. This can be customized entirely to your individual preferences.
Since 2024: Online Psychological Counseling in my own online practice
2024–2026: Psychotherapist in private practice
2023–2026: Employed Psychotherapist in private practice
2022–2023: Psychologist at the Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic Mannheim (focus on Autism, ADHD, and Long-Covid)
2021–2022: Psychotherapist in Training at the University Outpatient Clinic Mannheim (focus on Tinnitus and Chronic Pain)
2019–2020: Psychotherapist in Training at the Day Clinic Weinheim
2019: Erasmus+ Internship at Ares do Pinhal, Lisbon, Portugal (NGO for Social Inclusion – Mobile Low Threshold Methadone Program)
2023: Licensed Psychotherapist in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
2019: Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Psychology
2017: Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Psychology