How therapy works in Germany – step by step

If you are new to the German system: psychotherapy for children and adolescents follows a clearly structured path, from a first assessment through a trial phase to an approved course of treatment. Here is how it works in my practice.

First: initial consultations (Sprechstunden)

The initial consultations serve as a first diagnostic assessment and advice session, to determine whether a mental health condition may be present and whether – and which – specific therapeutic measures are necessary.

Trial sessions (Probatorik)

The trial sessions are for getting to know each other and for diagnostics, to check the fit between the patient and the therapeutic approach. Together with you and your child, I clarify whether a solid therapeutic relationship can be built and which individual treatment goals should be pursued. This phase is the prerequisite for subsequently applying to the health insurer for short-term or long-term therapy.

Biographical history (Anamnese)

In the biographical history, the child’s or adolescent’s life-course development and important formative events are recorded in detail, in order to better understand the background of the current symptoms. Alongside individual development, family influences, social relationships and school experiences are also explored, creating a holistic picture of the personality.

Creating an individual treatment plan

An individual treatment plan tailors the treatment goals and the methodological steps needed to reach them. It serves as a structured guide that makes the therapeutic process transparent and is regularly adapted to current progress and the family situation.