Frequently Asked Questions


Process and scheduling


How do I get an appointment?
Please follow these steps:

  1. Complete the contact form first. 
  2. On the homepage, you can see available appointments and book a session via the Tymia app form. If no appointments are available via the app, I will reply to your contact-form request and make a suggestion. 


What happens in the first sessions (probatory sessions)?
The first sessions (up to five so‑called probatory sessions) are used to understand your situation in more detail, clarify goals, and decide together whether psychotherapy is appropriate and whether we are a good fit. During this phase, you can get a realistic impression of my way of working and decide whether you would like to continue.


What if I don't want to continue after the first session(s)?
You are free to end therapy at any point, including after the first or any of the probatory sessions. These initial sessions are precisely there to help you decide whether you feel comfortable and whether therapy with me is suitable for you.


How often do therapy sessions take place?
Sessions are usually held once a week and last 50 minutes. Regular sessions allow for continuous work and progress. As therapy advances, sessions may be scheduled at longer intervals, depending on your needs and goals.


How long does therapy usually take?
In many cases, therapy starts with short‑term treatment (up to 24 sessions). If further work is indicated, this can be extended to long‑term treatment (up to a total of 60 sessions). The actual duration depends on your individual situation and is reviewed together on a regular basis.


Are online sessions possible?
Online sessions are currently available. Regulations may change, so please confirm before scheduling. The decision for video-based therapy is made jointly, considering your situation, the stage of therapy, and your preferences.


Topics and therapeutic approach


What issues do I work with?

I provide cognitive behavioral therapy for various mental health challenges, including anxiety disorders, depressive symptoms, adjustment disorders (e.g., following separation, illness, or relocation), stress and burnout, self-esteem issues, interpersonal difficulties, and navigating significant life transitions. If you're unsure whether your concern is "worthy of therapy," please feel free to reach out without obligation.

 

Is therapy only about talking?
In cognitive behavioral therapy, we talk about your experiences and patterns, and we also develop concrete exercises and try out new behaviors in everyday life. Therapy is a collaborative process in which we actively work together.


What if I am dissatisfied with therapy?
Your feedback is important. If you are unhappy, disagree with an intervention, or have concerns, please let me know. Open communication and reflection help me tailor therapy to your needs and can itself become a helpful part of the process.


Fees, insurance and framework


Can I receive therapy if I have statutory insurance?
This is a private practice, and I cannot bill statutory health insurance. However, you may choose to pay for therapy yourself, in accordance with the Psychotherapists’ Fee Regulations (GOP).


What are the costs if I pay privately (self‑pay)?
For self‑paying clients, the fee is 134.06 EUR per 50‑minute session, oriented towards the Psychotherapists’ Fee Regulations (GOP). You will receive an invoice that you can pay by bank transfer.


What are the costs for privately insured patients?
For privately insured patients and beneficiaries (Beihilfe), fees are charged according to the current Psychotherapists’ Fee Regulations (GOP). The extent of reimbursement depends on your individual insurance contract. Please clarify the details directly with your insurance provider. An overview of the GOP is available on the website of the German Federal Chamber of Psychotherapists (Bundespsychotherapeutenkammer).


How do I pay?
Self‑paying patients usually receive a monthly invoice, which is paid by bank transfer. Privately insured patients submit the invoice to their insurance for reimbursement, in line with their contract conditions.


Do I need a diagnosis or referral to start therapy?

No. You do not need a formal diagnosis or referral before reaching out. In the initial sessions, we will determine together whether a mental health condition is present according to clinical guidelines and whether psychotherapy is indicated and helpful for you.


Availability and emergencies


Are you available for emergency sessions or as an emergency contact?
Contact between sessions can be arranged if needed. In urgent situations, additional sessions or calls may be possible. For acute emergencies, please go to the nearest psychiatric clinic or call the medical on‑call service at 116 117. In Bonn, you can contact the Admission and Crisis Center, LVR Clinic Bonn, Kaiser‑Karl‑Ring 20, 53111 Bonn, Phone 0228 551 1.


Confidentiality and other questions


Will my health insurance find out about the therapy?

This depends on how you pay:

  • If paying out-of-pocket: No information will be shared with your health insurance.
  • If seeking reimbursement through private health insurance: The insurance company will receive necessary information, such as the diagnosis and, if required, a treatment application that is reviewed anonymously by an assessor.


Are there any side effects or risks of psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is generally considered safe, but like any effective treatment, side effects can occur. The most common are:

Emotional side effects: Difficult feelings such as sadness, fear, anger, or exhaustion may temporarily increase when painful topics are addressed, or changes are made in everyday life.

Relationship effects: Changes in your behavior – for example, if you start setting boundaries or expressing your needs more clearly – may be met with resistance from partners, family members, or colleagues, and can initially create tension or conflict.

These reactions are not necessarily a sign that therapy is "going wrong," but they should be openly discussed in our sessions so we can adjust the pace and focus to what feels manageable and helpful for you. Depending on individual circumstances, other side effects may also occur, which we will address together.