The Bothy Network Donate
A stone bothy in the Scottish Highlands at sunset, surrounded by snow

A place of refuge for Scottish immigrants in America.

The Bothy Network connects Scottish immigrants with culturally informed counselors, transition coaching, and peer support.

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What is a bothy?

A bothy is a simple, free shelter found across Scotland — unlocked, unstaffed, and open to any traveler who needs a place to rest. No one is turned away.

We chose the name because that's exactly what we want to be: a refuge, freely offered, for anyone who needs it.

The need is real, and it's measurable

8.4M

Americans identify as Scottish heritage — and within that wider diaspora, a smaller but steady number of Scots immigrate to the US each year, often with no dedicated mental health support built for that specific transition.

1 in 4

People in Scotland face a mental health problem in any given year. That need doesn't disappear when someone relocates — if anything, migration adds to it. Source: Scottish Health Survey

62 studies

A U.S. systematic review found immigrants face migration-specific stress that can trigger or worsen anxiety and depression, yet access mental health care at rates far below the general population. Source: Systematic Review, Psychiatric Services (PMC)

How we help

Counseling referrals

We connect you with licensed U.S. mental health professionals experienced in culturally informed care, matched to your needs and location.

Transition coaching

One-on-one guidance through the emotional phases of relocation — rebuilding identity, managing homesickness, and "dual-home" guilt.

Peer support groups

Moderated digital circles where Scottish immigrants connect, share experience, and build genuine community.

Jamie McGeechan, founder of The Bothy Network

Our story

"I moved from Ayrshire, Scotland, to the USA in 2019. When my mum passed away in 2021, I found it extremely hard to cope—on top of the pressures of transitioning to life in a new country. Sometimes all we need is someone to talk to who understands. The Bothy Network was created to stand alongside our community, providing practical mental health navigation and care when it matters most."

Jamie McGeechan — Founder, The Bothy Network

The Bothy Network is guided by a board of directors: Jamie McGeechan, Founder and President; Scott Thompson, Treasurer; Lindsey Stewart, Secretary.

Frequently asked questions

Is this really free?

Yes — all counseling, coaching, and peer support through the Bothy Network is completely free, regardless of insurance status.

Do I need to prove I'm Scottish?

No formal proof is needed. We welcome anyone connected to the Scottish community, wherever they are in that journey.

How do I know this is legitimate?

The Bothy Network is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit, incorporated in Missouri and serving Scottish immigrants nationwide. You can verify our status directly through the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search and see our public listing on Candid, formerly GuideStar.