Pittwater to Provence: A Humorous Leap
Join us on a journey from the beautiful shores of Scotland Island to the golden fields of Southern France. From language faux pas to cultural curiosities, we're sharing our transition with a healthy dose of humour and the professional perspective of a registered psychologist.
I’m an Australian Registered Psychologist who has a slight tendency towards being unconventional.
I retrained as a psychologist later in life (because why make things easy?), have lived on a water-access-only island, and for the last 30 years have played in a rock band — rotating between instruments with enthusiasm if not always technical brilliance. A classic case of jack of all trades, master of none.
I’m also a parent of three and live in a proudly neurodivergent household, which has shaped my neuroaffirming approach both personally and professionally.
After 27 years in Australia — every minute of which I genuinely loved — I had often talked about the idea of escaping the Aussie winters and spending time in the south of France.
What I hadn’t quite planned on was doing it quite so… definitively.
It seems I may have manifested this particular life change a little earlier (and more comprehensively) than intended.
So here I am — navigating a new country, a different culture, and the small but significant challenges that come with it.
This blog is a reflection of that experience — part observation, part psychological perspective, and occasionally a gentle reminder that even when things feel slightly chaotic, they are usually still manageable.
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From a Psychologist's Perspective
Transitioning from the idyllic Scotland Island in Australia to the pastoral charm of Provence isn't just a lifestyle shift—it's a psychological adventure. As a registered psychologist, my aim is to provide professional insight with a humorous, supportive perspective for anyone navigating their own 'lost in translation' moments. Whether it's managing the stress of a French administrative loop or finding balance in a new culture, I'm here to share the tools (and the laughter) needed to thrive in your transition.
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