Differences Between Professionals

Psychologists complete a university psychology degree, typically M.Sc., focusing scientifically on behavior, emotions, and cognition. Not all can treat psychotherapeutically - additional multi-year training and state licensure (Approbation) are required for psychotherapy in a medical sense. Only licensed psychotherapists may practice it.

Many psychotherapists open private practices post-licensure due to long waits for public insurance contracts (Kassensitz). Psychiatrists, as specialized physicians, prescribe medications (e.g., antidepressants, neuroleptics) and rule out physical causes - unlike psychotherapists. Heilpraktiker for psychotherapy lack university education or regulated training, needing only a safety exam; quality isn't guaranteed and doesn't replace licensed psychotherapy.

Kassensitz vs. Private Practices

Therapists with Kassensitz are approved by the Kassenärztliche Vereinigung (KV) to bill statutory insurers directly; spots are limited, causing long waits. Private practices (no Kassensitz) treat statutory insured via reimbursement (§13 Abs. 3 SGB V) if no timely public spot exists, and self-payers/private insured anytime.

Qualifications Without Kassensitz

Licensed psychotherapists hold full psychology M.Sc. plus state-approved multi-year training in evidence-based methods (theory, patient work, supervision), ending in Approbation for independent practice - independent of billing method.

Therapy Methods

Private practices use insurer-recognized approaches: behavioral therapy, systemic therapy, depth psychology-based psychotherapy, psychoanalysis. Often supplemented by mindfulness or relaxation techniques.

Treated Conditions

Covers ICD-10 F-diagnoses (e.g., depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD). Also emotional impacts of physical illnesses like Long COVID, MS, cancer - treating triggered anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders for coping with burden, pain, fatigue while maintaining quality of life. Excludes couple/parenting counseling or life coaching.

Expectations

Psychotherapy processes burdensome thoughts/feelings and maladaptive patterns via personalized goals and plans. No instant cure - requires motivation and facing issues. Post-therapy, challenges persist but with better strategies. Probatory sessions (up to 5) for assessment precede full therapy.

Practical Info

• Costs: 130-165€/50 min (GOP/GOÄ); reimbursement possible.

• Duration: Behavioral therapy short (24 sessions) or long (36), plus initial consults; individualized in private.

• Online: Yes, secure platforms; suitable for mobility issues, but some in-person needed.

• First Session: Bring reports, meds list, insurance card; assess fit.

• Cancellations: 24h notice; no-show fees possible.

• Ending: Anytime, ideally with closure.

• Side Effects: Temporary distress from surfacing issues - normal, discuss openly.

Reimbursement Process

Prove no public spot available (e.g., failed contacts) plus doctor's urgency note; insurer reviews. Therapist assists application. Needs doctor's/therapist's certification.

When Not Ideal

Demands energy; pause during high stress (e.g., childcare, work). Severe cases may need inpatient psychiatry. Self-pay offers privacy - no insurer notification.

Therapy