Frequently Asked Questions About Psychotherapy

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What is psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is professional support for emotional challenges, psychological stress, or personal questions.

In therapy sessions, we explore together what is currently affecting you and try to understand the underlying patterns and connections. The goal is to develop new perspectives and support meaningful changes that can help you in your everyday life.

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When is psychotherapy helpful?

Psychotherapy can be helpful if you feel overwhelmed, emotionally burdened, or stuck for a longer period of time.

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People often seek therapy for issues such as:

• Stress and feeling overwhelmed

• Anxiety or inner restlessness

• Self-doubt or low self-esteem

• Relationship conflicts

• Difficult life situations or personal crises

Many people also start psychotherapy simply to understand themselves better or to gain new direction in life.

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What happens during the first session?

The first session gives you the opportunity to talk about your concerns in a calm and confidential setting.

We discuss what is currently on your mind, what expectations you have for therapy, and what goals might be important for you. At the same time, you can get to know me and my way of working.

At the end of the session, we can reflect together on whether working together feels like the right fit.

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How does psychotherapy work?

Psychotherapy usually consists of regular conversations in a safe and confidential setting.

Together, we explore how certain patterns may have developed and how they affect your life today. Therapy not only focuses on specific problems but also on the broader context of your life, relationships, and experiences.

The aim is to develop new perspectives and gradually support meaningful change.

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How long does psychotherapy last?

The duration of psychotherapy can vary significantly.

Some people come for only a few sessions, while others prefer longer-term support. The length of therapy depends on your personal goals, your concerns, and your individual situation.

The duration is discussed regularly during the therapeutic process.

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How often should I attend therapy?

At the beginning, therapy sessions often take place once per week. Regular appointments help create continuity and stability in the therapeutic process.

Depending on your needs and life situation, sessions may later take place less frequently, for example every two weeks.

The frequency of sessions is always discussed together.

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How much does psychotherapy cost in Vienna?

Psychotherapy is usually a private service.

The fee for a session is discussed during the first consultation. Costs may vary depending on the setting, such as individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, or group therapy.

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Does health insurance cover psychotherapy?

Under certain conditions, it may be possible to receive partial reimbursement from your health insurance.

The exact amount depends on your insurance provider. Details can be discussed during the first session.

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Do I need a diagnosis to start therapy?

No.

Many people start psychotherapy without having a medical diagnosis. Often therapy is about understanding difficult situations, gaining clarity, or finding new ways to deal with life’s challenges.

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How do I know if the therapist is the right fit?

Trust between therapist and client is an important part of psychotherapy.

The first session helps you get a sense of whether you feel comfortable and whether the collaboration feels right for you.

You can decide at any time whether you would like to continue with further sessions.

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How can I find a psychotherapy place in Vienna?

Psychotherapy places in Vienna can sometimes be limited. Many therapists work with waiting lists or offer appointments after an initial consultation.

It can be helpful to contact several therapists and find out which therapeutic approach and setting feel most suitable for you.

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How long do I have to wait for a therapy appointment?

Waiting times can vary.

Some therapists may offer appointments within a short time, while others may have waiting lists that take several weeks. Availability depends on current capacity and preferred appointment times.

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Do I have to talk about everything in therapy?

No.

In therapy, you decide what you want to talk about and at what pace. Therapy is not about forcing anything, but about creating a safe space where topics can be explored gradually.

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What if I don’t know what to say during a session?

This happens quite often and is completely normal.

Sometimes a session begins with a feeling, an everyday situation, or a question that is currently on your mind. From there, we develop the conversation together.

Therapy does not need to be prepared.

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What if I feel nervous or unsure before the first session?

Many people feel nervous or uncertain before their first therapy session. This is completely normal.

The first meeting is also an opportunity to get to know each other and see whether you feel comfortable with the situation and the therapeutic approach.

Afterwards, you can decide whether you would like to schedule further sessions.

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What is the difference between a psychotherapist, psychologist, and psychiatrist?

Psychotherapists treat emotional and psychological difficulties primarily through talk therapy.

Psychologists often work in assessment, counseling, or therapy depending on their training.

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can also prescribe medication.

These professions often work together.

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What does “psychotherapist in training under supervision” mean?

This means that the therapist is in the final stage of professional psychotherapeutic training.

Their work with clients is regularly discussed anonymously with experienced psychotherapists in supervision. This ensures quality and supports careful therapeutic practice.

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Can I come to therapy without a specific problem?

Yes.

Many people come to psychotherapy to understand themselves better, reflect on personal topics, or explore new perspectives for their lives.

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Is online psychotherapy possible?

Depending on the situation, therapy sessions can also take place online.

Whether online therapy is appropriate will be discussed individually.

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Can therapy be conducted in English?

Yes. Therapy sessions can also take place in English.