"It feels like I have to project this perfect image all the time. But underneath, I’m just about holding it all together." (A composite of sentiments shared by clients).
Living on the Côte d'Azur involves navigating a world of high expectations. The pressure to keep up, both professionally and socially, can be draining, often leaving little space for your own well-being.
I am William Smith, an online counsellor providing a confidential space for English speakers in Nice, Monaco, Cannes, and along the Riviera. I am an accredited member of the BACP.
How I approach our work
The Riviera lifestyle can be transient and demanding. Friendships may come and go with the seasons, and work in yachting, hospitality or aviation often requires long hours and irregular schedules. It can be difficult to feel grounded.
My way of working is to listen to the reality behind the public-facing image. We can talk about the burnout, the loneliness, or the external pressures that are seldom discussed openly. It’s a space to be honest about how things really are for you.
What sessions might involve
We meet online for a regular 50-minute session each week. The secure video connection allows you to join from your apartment, crew quarters, or wherever you have a private space, offering consistency in a life that might feel unpredictable.
People often use this time to explore the contrast between their inner feelings and their outward life. We might talk about setting boundaries, managing stress, or reconnecting with a sense of self that feels lost amidst the demands of your environment.
A checklist for noticing burnout
You may be so used to pushing through that it’s hard to recognise the signs of exhaustion. You might notice:
- A feeling of constant fatigue, even after resting.
- Becoming cynical or detached from your work and social life.
- A sense that your efforts are no longer effective or appreciated.
- Increased irritability or impatience with colleagues and friends.
- Difficulty switching off or relaxing, even during downtime.
If these points feel familiar, therapy can be a place to begin addressing them.
English-language support in Nice
Connecting with others can be a vital part of feeling at home here. Alongside therapy, these local organisations may be a source of community and practical support.
- Cancer Support France Riviera: English-speaking volunteers offering emotional and practical help for anyone affected by cancer.
- Riviera International Singers: A community choir for English speakers from Nice, Monaco, and Antibes.
- SOS Help: A confidential English-language helpline open every evening for anyone in France.
Working together online
Having a protected hour each week that is entirely for you can make a real difference. It is a space to process your experiences without needing to perform or be anyone other than yourself.
You can arrange a time to chat with me to see how this might feel in practice. This initial 15-minute call is a chance for us to talk briefly and see if we are a good fit.
Suitability and alternatives
Online therapy works well for many people, but it is not always the right choice. A key requirement is having a private, confidential space and a reliable internet connection for our sessions.
My service is not designed for crisis or urgent care. If you are in immediate distress or believe you are at risk, please contact your médecin traitant (GP), visit your nearest A&E (urgences), or call the emergency services on 112.
Explore counselling support in other French locations
Return to the English-speaking counselling guides for France to browse every location.