When I mention mental health, what comes to mind? Maybe therapy or counseling, a treat-yourself coffee, or simply self-regulation? Mental health looks different for everyone—but what matters most is making it a priority.
Before leaving to study abroad in Barcelona, I was already seeing a therapist bi-weekly over video calls. I knew that once I arrived in Spain, I wanted to continue that care. Having consistent support was non-negotiable for me.
The Honeymoon Phase—and the CrashArriving in Barcelona is a whirlwind of emotions, signs, faces, and things to do. During my first week, I closed all the rings on my Apple Watch—twice! Exploring the city, trying new foods, meeting new people—it’s the “honeymoon phase,” and it’s euphoric.
But as the weeks pass and the novelty fades, you settle into a routine. Then, suddenly, it hits you: you’re still human. Your mind is exhausted from the highs and lows, and it’s craving a break.
Meeting Esther, and Getting Lost (Literally)
I vividly remember my first session with Esther, the licensed therapist through Barcelona SAE. It was a cloudy, drizzly day—rare weather for a city in the middle of a drought.
That day, I got on the wrong train (still learning Barcelona’s public transit) and arrived late. But when Esther opened the door, I felt immediately welcomed and understood.
A Hidden Gem: La FlorestaHer office is about 45 minutes from the city center, in a small suburb called La Floresta (Spanish for “The Forest”). It’s a charming, peaceful place—a real escape from the bustle of Barcelona. The views on the way there are captivating, and I found myself looking forward to the commute. It became a part of the therapy itself.
The Power of In-Person Therapy
Seeing a therapist in person changed how I viewed mental health care. Back home, I was used to hopping on a Zoom call. But in Barcelona, therapy required intention. I had to make time, plan my commute, and carve out energy.
That walk up to Esther’s office became sacred—a quiet time to reflect, breathe fresh air, and mentally prepare for our sessions.
If Time or Nerves Are a Concern
Now, if you’re thinking, “I don’t have that kind of time,” or “That sounds scary to do alone,” don’t worry—there are alternatives.
Esther also offers group therapy sessions in the city center. I joined one and found it to be a powerful space where everyone was heard and supported. While I ultimately continued with one-on-one sessions, I saw how much the group helped others build community and process shared experiences.
Esther also offers group therapy sessions in the city center. I joined one and found it to be a powerful space where everyone was heard and supported. While I ultimately continued with one-on-one sessions, I saw how much the group helped others build community and process shared experiences.
Processing Politics, Pain, and Poetry
I talked to Esther about many things and grew so much during our sessions. Being abroad during the 2024 U.S. Presidential elections was intense, and I was able to process my thoughts and fears with her. When I catastrophized, she gently brought me back down and helped me regain perspective.
One particularly difficult week, my boyfriend was hospitalized back home while I was dealing with my own health scare at Delfos Hospital in Barcelona. It was overwhelming. But through that, I discovered one of my coping tools: writing poetry.
After the election results, I wrote the following piece during one of my sessions, and I’d love to share it with you.
The Bench
Last week, I sat on this same bench and wept—
In fact, I think I wailed.
Darkness, distress, despair.
So much pressure. So much weight.
How could hate prevail?I thought we were better than this.
Race. Gender. Orientation.
I thought we were past this!
But if you look deeper,
We have more in common than you think.
So what do we do now?
We fight.
We fight for the dignity of all people.
And we never give up.
Don’t ever give up.
Don’t ever stop trying to make the world a better place.
And to my friend, the bench—
Thank you for your support.
You held strong as I broke down.
May we all be that strong bench
For our friends, family, and neighbors
When they need strength.
A Final Note on Life in BarcelonaLife in Barcelona is unlike anything else. You’ll make new friends, visit breathtaking places, and create lifelong memories. But yes—there will be hard days. There will be moments when you feel lost, overwhelmed, or unsure. That’s normal.
What matters is that you know you have a community, an organization, and, if needed, a licensed therapist ready to support you.
So I encourage you: step out of your comfort zone. Push yourself to grow. But most importantly, listen to your body and your mind. They will guide you—on tough days, they’ll tell you when to rest. And on better days, they’ll empower you to become someone who not only loves themselves, but uplifts others too.
