Switching Therapists: A Guide
Navigating the process of changing psychotherapists and therapy methods under Germany's statutory health insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV) can seem daunting, but it's a straightforward process when broken down into steps.
Finding a New Psychotherapist
First and foremost, you need to find a new psychotherapist who is registered with statutory health insurance. This can be done by checking the Kassenärztliche Bundesvereinigung (National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians) or by seeking recommendations from your insurer.
Obtaining Approval from Your Health Insurance
For long-term therapy methods or a change in therapy method or therapist, you typically need to have the initial therapy plan or a treatment request approved by your health insurance before reimbursement begins. This includes changes of therapy approach (e.g., from cognitive behavioral to psychodynamic therapy).
Informing Your Current Therapist
It is advisable to inform your current therapist about your desire to switch, so they can provide any necessary documentation or transfer treatment records.
Submitting Applications for Therapy Coverage
Your new psychotherapist will help you submit an application for therapy coverage to your health insurer, describing the therapy plan and method.
Waiting Lists and Appointment Availability
Under statutory insurance, there can be waiting times for therapy slots, so finding a new therapist may take time.
Changing Therapy Methods
If you want to switch therapy methods, your health insurer may require the new method to be certified under the statutory system and for your condition and treatment history to justify the change.
Costs Covered by Statutory Insurance
As long as the new therapist is approved and your therapy application is accepted, the costs will be covered by your statutory health insurance.
When to Change Therapists
Trust your instincts when deciding to switch therapists, according to Andrea Beneke, president of the Federal Chamber of Psychotherapists. No effective therapy can take place if the chemistry between you and your practitioner isn't right. Changing therapists can be beneficial if the chemistry isn't right.
Inappropriate Behavior from a Psychotherapist
If you experience inappropriate behavior such as sexual advances, innuendos, insults, or breaking confidentiality, seek advice from the ombudsmen or complaints offices of the respective state psychotherapy chambers, the independent patient advice service, or the Ethics Association for Psychotherapy. If you suspect therapeutic misconduct, you can discuss whether to initiate a complaint procedure against the therapist.
Promises of a quick cure, such as "You'll be healthy again within ten hours," are also inappropriate. A psychotherapist should not use sessions to satisfy their own needs, such as constantly demanding praise or sharing too much personal information.
In summary, the process involves selecting a new approved psychotherapist, obtaining necessary approvals from your insurer, and submitting applications for therapy coverage with the new therapist. Changing therapy methods requires a justifiable clinical reason and approval within the statutory system. The National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians online portal and your health insurer can assist in finding approved therapists. If you encounter any inappropriate behavior, there are resources available to help you address the situation.
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