What is behavioural therapy (CBT) and how does it work?

Behavioural therapy is a treatment in which I look closely, together with you and your child, at how thoughts, feelings and behaviour are connected and influence one another.

In short: you and your child learn new, helpful strategies to cope better with difficult situations or problems.

Together with you, I look at: What is currently troubling your child or you? (For example strong anxiety, sadness or anger.) And what keeps the problem going? (Often this is avoidance, unconscious habits or persistent negative thinking patterns.)

In therapy, I then practise with your child – very concretely and step by step – how old, less helpful habits (in behaviour or in thinking) can be replaced by new, better ones. At first this usually takes some effort, but with targeted practice it becomes easier, and your child will begin to notice the first positive changes. The goal is for your child and you to become the experts, knowing how to manage problems better yourselves.

Does behavioural therapy help with “bad” behaviour?

Yes. However, I prefer to speak of “problematic” behaviour, because such behaviour usually serves an (unconscious) function for the child.

In therapy, I analyse the underlying causes and practise new ways with your child of dealing with frustration or conflict, for example. The goal is better self-regulation for your child.
I do not only look at the child, but also at how you as parents can provide support in everyday life without exhausting yourselves.

Have we done everything wrong? Are we to blame for our child’s problems?

It is completely normal for parents to ask themselves this question. However, mental health problems in children usually develop through a complex interplay of many factors (genetics, environment, experiences). Therapy is not about finding someone to blame, but about understanding the current situation and developing solutions for the future together.You are not the accused – you are the most important partners for your child’s therapeutic success.

Will we be criticised a lot as parents?

You are the experts on your child. In therapy, I generally do not focus on possible mistakes of the past, but on how you can better support your child in everyday life.

Therapy also offers you a protected space to talk about your own strain or worries without being blamed or judged.

What happens in the first appointment?

In the first session, I clarify with you the reason for coming: What exactly is difficult, how long has the problem existed, and what has been tried so far? Part of the session takes place alone with your child, so that they can build trust and see themselves as an active partner in the process.

Which documents should I bring to the first appointment?

Please bring an insurance card. If available, please also bring copies of any previous reports or assessments.

Can my child start therapy without the consent of the other parent with custody?

No. Where custody is shared, the consent of both parents is strictly required before treatment can begin.

What if we are separated as parents?

Ideally, the parent sessions take place together – at least initially – so that I can discuss with both of you how the situation can be improved for the benefit of your child.

Does my child have to receive a diagnosis?

Yes. At the latest when therapy begins, a confirmed diagnosis is required in order to start treatment at all.

How quickly does therapy help?

This varies from child to child. First changes can appear after a few weeks; more stable improvements often take several months. As with any treatment, however, there is no guarantee of therapeutic success.

How long does therapy last?

Short-term therapy: 24 sessions for the child + 6 sessions for parents/caregivers.

Long-term therapy: 60 sessions for the child + 15 sessions for parents/caregivers.

As a rule, around 10 appointments take place per quarter.

Are there side effects?

Yes. Psychotherapy, too, can have side effects. A temporary initial worsening is common, because distressing topics are stirred up and openly addressed. This can show itself as increased sadness, restlessness or sleep problems.

Relationships can also change when patients begin to set new boundaries or to change or adapt their behaviour.

How often and how long is a therapy session?

A session lasts 50 minutes and usually takes place once a week.

Will I, as a mother or father, know what happens in therapy?

Yes, but in measured doses. I use the accompanying parent sessions to inform you about progress and the broad themes. Your child, however, needs a protected space, which is why details often remain confidential.

Does confidentiality also apply towards the parents?

Therapy is a protected space for your child. Everything discussed is subject to professional confidentiality in order to build the necessary trust. I do, however, keep you regularly informed about general progress and goals and involve you in the process, as long as this does not violate the rights of the child (from about age 14) or the therapeutic relationship.

Will you be in contact with the school, the paediatrician or other caregivers?

Only by agreement, and only if it is useful for the therapy. For this, you must explicitly release me from my duty of confidentiality.

What happens if we have to cancel an appointment?

Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours before the appointment. Otherwise a fee for the reserved session is charged.

How do you make sure my child can build trust and feels comfortable and understood in the sessions?

By taking your child’s interests and world seriously. I work a great deal through play and meet your child at eye level. Your child should feel understood and experience that their perspective counts.

Can my child be excused from school for therapy?

Yes. The Berlin Senate administration instructs schools to grant leave for necessary therapy. In practice, this is the norm.

What if my child initially shows resistance or rejects therapy?

Resistance at the beginning is normal. I address it openly and design the first sessions around activities the child enjoys, to take the pressure off. As a rule, the resistance subsides after a short time.

I am not covered by German statutory health insurance – what now?

Please state your insurance status when registering (private, Beihilfe, self-pay). I will then clarify the billing arrangements with you individually.