Reverse culture shock and culture shock: support for Indians abroad
Reverse culture shock and culture shock can leave you feeling lost in a place that should feel like home. Our India-based counsellors help you adjust — whether you have just moved abroad or just moved back — through online sessions in your time zone.
What is reverse culture shock?
Reverse culture shock is the disorientation of returning home after living abroad. Family expectations, pace of life and friendships may feel unfamiliar, and you may miss the independence you had abroad.
Culture shock and reverse culture shock: what's the difference?
Culture shock happens when you arrive in a new country; reverse culture shock happens when you come back. Both often move through a honeymoon phase, frustration, adjustment and acceptance.
Culture shock in Australia and the US for Indians
Indians moving to Australia or the US often describe culture shock around directness at work, how independent young people are expected to be, food, loneliness on weekends and the distance from family.
- Feeling invisible or misunderstood at work or university
- Missing the busyness and closeness of home
- Struggling with social norms and small talk
How an Indian counsellor helps
- Make sense of mixed feelings without judging yourself
- Rebuild routines and relationships in the new (or old) place
- Talk through family expectations on return
How sessions work across time zones
All sessions are online by secure video call. We offer early-morning and late-evening India-time slots, so you can meet before work or after dinner wherever you live. Tell us your country and time zone when you book.
What a session looks like
It starts with a free 15-minute call to see if we're the right fit. Sessions are a private conversation in English, Hindi, Marathi — you talk about what's going on, and together we work out small, practical next steps.
Frequently asked questions
What is reverse culture shock?
Reverse culture shock is the disorientation many people feel when they return home after living abroad. Home has changed, and so have you, so familiar places and people can suddenly feel unfamiliar.
What is culture shock?
Culture shock is the stress and confusion of adjusting to an unfamiliar culture: new norms, language, food and social rules. It is common and usually eases with time and support.
How long does reverse culture shock last?
It varies. Many people feel more settled within months, but it can return around big decisions or family events.
What times work in my time zone?
We offer early-morning and late-evening India-time slots, which fit evenings in the Gulf and Asia and mornings or nights in Europe, North America and Australia. Tell us your country and time zone when you book.
Are your counsellors licensed in my country?
No. Our counsellors are based in India and offer online counselling. This is not licensed therapy in your country of residence.
Can I talk in Hindi?
Yes. Sessions are available in English, Hindi, Marathi.
Talk to an Indian counsellor
Online counselling worldwide from India, at times that fit your time zone.