Notice: Not psychotherapy
What is psychological counselling?
Psychological counselling is aimed at fundamentally healthy individuals seeking support with specific concerns – whether work-related stress, a difficult decision, a process of change or the desire for personal development. It is resource-oriented and builds on the existing strengths and abilities of the person seeking advice.
What is psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy is the professional treatment of mental disorders with clinical significance (e.g. depression, anxiety disorders, trauma-related disorders). It requires a diagnosis according to a recognised classification system (ICD) and may only be practised in Switzerland by professionals with a recognised psychotherapy postgraduate qualification and a cantonal licence to practise.
Distinction
My services comprise psychological counselling, coaching and employee assistance. I do not offer psychotherapy and do not treat mental disorders with clinical significance.
Specifically, this means:
- I do not make psychiatric or psychotherapeutic diagnoses
- I do not treat clinical conditions (e.g. depression, anxiety disorders, addiction, trauma-related disorders)
- I do not prescribe medication (this is reserved for medical doctors)
- My services do not replace medical or psychotherapeutic treatment
Insurance coverage
As this is not psychotherapy, the costs for my services are not covered by the mandatory basic health insurance (KVG) in Switzerland. Some supplementary insurances may contribute to the costs of psychological counselling. Please check directly with your health insurer.
When is psychotherapy the right choice?
If you are suffering from persistent psychological complaints that significantly impair your daily life – such as lasting sadness, severe anxiety, sleep disorders, addiction or thoughts of self-harm – I recommend contacting a psychotherapist or your GP.
Should it become apparent during our counselling that psychotherapeutic treatment would be advisable, I’m happy to support you in finding a suitable professional.
Resources
- FSP Psyfinder: www.psychologie.ch/psyfinder – directory of qualified psychologists in Switzerland
- Die Dargebotene Hand (The Helping Hand): Phone 143 (24 hours, free)
- Your GP: first point of contact for a referral to psychotherapy