WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A PSYCHOLOGIST AND PSYCHIATRIST?

A Clinical Psychologist has a M.A. and Ph.D. in Clinical psychology; a Psychiatrist is an MD, medical doctor, with a specialization in psychiatry which allows him or her to proscribe psychotropic medications.

DOES INSURANCE COVER PSYCHOTHERAPY?

In Switzerland, primary health insurance covers the cost of medical doctors; supplemental insurance generally covers  70-80% of the cost of psychotherapy up to an annual maximum. Because policies vary and your supplemental insurance does not need to be with the same company as your primary insurance, it is worth comparing different policies to find the best policy for you. The costs of supplemental insurance are relatively low and can be added to your primary coverage in the month following your application. Keep in mind, however, that if you obtain coverage after beginning therapy, that policy may exclude psychotherapy on the grounds that it is a pre-existing condition.

DO I NEED A MEDICAL REFERRAL BEFORE BEGINNING PSYCHOTHERAPY?

Some insurance policies require a medical referral from your GP before beginning psychotherapy. You should call your insurance in order to see what is required since policies vary.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT WITH PSYCHOTHERAPY?

Psychotherapy entails a weekly 50-minute meeting for which I may ask you to think about or prepare, for example, some background information. It is important to have a regular time that we meet weekly in order to be able to focus on the therapeutic issues rather than on administration and scheduling.

HOW IS PAYMENT MADE?

I ask, if possible, that you pay for sessions the week of our meeting and will provide a bill for your insurance at the end of each month that you can submit for reimbursement. If this arrangement is not possible, please speak with me so that we can arrange an alternative.