1. How do I communicate with my psychologist?
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Our counseling sessions will be held either
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online via Zoom from wherever you are (through video or voice call based on your preference). The Zoom web client allows joining a Zoom session without downloading any plugins or software, or
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in-person in my practice at Byfangweg 20, 4051 Basel, Switzerland.
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2. Is online psychological counseling effective?
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Online psychological counseling is effective and a growing trend in the future of mental health care. A comprehensive review including 70 studies showed that telemental health services such as online psychological counseling are effective and comparable to in-person care, increase access to care, and complement other services in primary care (Hilty et al., 2013).
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3. Do I need a doctor's referral?
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No, you don't need a doctor's referral. Anywherepractice's mission is to make mental health care easily accesible – for anyone from anywhere. You can directly book an appointment online.
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4. Can I be reimbursed by my insurance?
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For clients in Switzerland
Please kindly note that our services are not covered by basic insurance and you don't need a doctor's referral.
Important: Even in case of a coverage by basic insurance, your personal contribution consists of the excess and 10% of the invoice amount.
However, some supplementary insurances that accredit 'Psychologists FSP' (Federation of Swiss Psychologists) and promote prevention efforts, cover part of the costs (e.g. Sanitas, AXA, Groups Mutuel/Avenir). Since the cost coverage varies greatly between supplementary insurances, we would recommend contacting your supplementary insurance directly in advance.
For international clients
The terms of cost coverage for mental health services differ by country and by health insurance model. For more details, we would recommend contacting your health insurance directly.
Direct payment
The sessions can also be paid directly.
Benefits for direct payers / private clients:
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No referral by general practitioner needed
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Freedom of choice for therapists and services
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Quick, flexible and uncomplicated
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No entry in your health insurance file
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5. What's the difference between psychological counseling and psychotherapy?
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The main difference between psychological counseling and psychotherapy lies in the treatment duration and nature of the problems. Psychological counseling typically refers to short-term treatment that focuses on difficult life situations and provides professional support in solving specific problems. On the other hand, psychotherapy usually refers to longer-term treatment that helps people with a broad variety of mental illnesses cope with daily life (American Psychiatric Association).
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6. Is online psychological counseling with Anywherepractice suitable for me?
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Yes, it might be suitable for you in cases such as the following:
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You struggle with private and/or professional challenges
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You want a safe and non-judgemental space to talk
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You want to develop personally and become your best self
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You wish for uncomplicated access to mental health care
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You enjoy being flexible in time and space
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You want to save commuting time
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You have mental or physical conditions that make it challenging to leave the house
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You have caregiver responsibilities that make it challenging to leave the house
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You want to be in a space where you feel most comfortable
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You need psychological counseling while you are traveling
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You want to benefit from psychological counseling outside of typical office hours
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No, it is not suitable for you in any of the following cases:
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You are a minor or under the care of a legal guardian
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You are thinking about suicide or are considering harming yourself or others, or you have a medical emergency or acute crisis. In such cases, please immediately contact your local emergency number and seek in-person help.
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You have been certified 'non compos mentis'
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You have a severe mental illness or experience severe symptoms, including, but not limited to, hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia
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You rely on medication for the treatment of mental disorders
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You need close psychiatric supervision or in-person assistance
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You seek a clinical diagnosis that requires an in-person evaluation
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You seek a clinical diagnosis for official documentation (e.g., court and authorities)
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You do not agree with the Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions
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7. How many sessions do I need?
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There is no one-size-fits-all to improving mental well-being. The frequency and duration of your counseling depend on your unique situation and needs. While Anywherepractice can offer suggestions based on progress, you determine how many sessions you need and are free to stop or pause the services at anytime. Anywherepractice is here to support you in getting the help you need to successfully navigate through life again.
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8. What is your approach to confidentiality?
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Anywherepractice is bound to professional secrecy and provides a safe place for you to talk. Confidentiality is guaranteed to all clients and disclosures during counseling sessions will remain private.
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9. How can I book an appointment?
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For your convenience, you can choose from the flexible time options offered and directly book your appointment online. Please note that by booking a service, you agree to Anywherepractice's Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.
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10. How will I make payments?
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All clients are required to make the full payment prior to the appointment. Payment options include all common credit cards.
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11. What is the cancelation policy?
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If you are unable to attend an appointment, please cancel by sending a quick note to counseling@anywherepractice.com. Appointments can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance at no cost. If you cancel less than 24 hours, 50% of the service fee will be charged. If you miss your appointment without giving notice, the full rate will be charged.
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For further information, please check out the Terms & Conditions or contact counseling@anywherepractice.com.
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