Support Groups

A safe space to connect, share, and feel understood.

Living abroad can be both rewarding and challenging, especially when you're also navigating a mental health conditions or neurodivergent experiences. These professionally facilitated support groups are designed to offer emotional support, community, and a sense of belonging for expats in the Netherlands.

What are these groups?

These are closed-format (total of 8 sessions), professionally facilitated support groups for adults who want a structured yet flexible space to explore their experiences with others who share similar lived experiences and understand you. The session content is shaped by what participants bring each session and are facilitated by psychologist. Each group meets every two weeks, and is held in English, in-person in at ResPair. in Leiden.

What to expect?

  • A calm, respectful, and confidential space

  • Facilitated by a professional psychologist

  • Light structure to support meaningful sharing

  • No pressure to speak if you prefer to listen

  • Topics shaped by the group's needs and interests

Bipolar Disorder Support Group

For expats living with Bipolar I or II who want to explore topics such as mood cycles, medication, stigma, relationships, identity, and stability in the context of living abroad.

This group may be for you if:

  • You've been diagnosed with bipolar disorder (or are exploring the diagnosis)
  • You're looking for shared understanding and peer connection
  • You are emotionally stable and not in crisis

Autism Support Group

For autistic expat adults — diagnosed or self-identified — who want a space to connect around identity, masking, burnout, relationships, and the challenges of being neurodivergent in a new culture.

This group may be for you if:

  • You identify as autistic (diagnosed or self-diagnosed)
  • You are seeking connection without pressure to perform or mask
  • You want a calm space where you can be yourself

Group Format & Details

  • 8 sessions, biweekly (one session every 2 weeks)

  • 2 hours (including a short break)

  • In English

  • At the ResPair. office in Leiden (Breestraat 24, 2311 CS)

  • The group will begin once at least 5 participants have signed up

  • Spaces are limited to 7 people to ensure an intimate, supportive atmosphere.

Fee & Payment

Bipolar Disorder Support Group

8 Sessions at €35/session 

€280

Autism Support Group

8 Sessions at €35/session

€280


Payments are made in advance. Exceptions can be made for those in financial hardship – just ask.