Frequently Asked Questions
If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for, you’re welcome to reach out directly through the contact page.
How does it work?
- Reach out! You can get in touch with me by emailing or contact me at tatjanahartmanntherapy@gmail.com and +41 (0)77 482 57 67 (WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, Viber, Skype).
- We arrange a video call (up to 45 minutes) to explore what brings you to therapy and answer any questions you might have. This helps me assess how I can support you and gives us both a chance to see if we connect well. This is just a conversation, no commitment is required, and it’s free of cost.
- After that, the therapy journey begins.
Read more about the process here
How long does therapy last?
For as long as it lasts, I follow your own pace.
How do I know it’s time to start therapy?
Ultimately, I believe it is up to you to determine that. Here are some signs that can help you answer that question: you know you’re not where you want to be but you don’t know how to get there, there’s something from your past that feels unresolved, you are curious about what therapy would be like.
If you currently don’t feel motivated or ready to start, that’s understandable. I encourage you to take your time and begin when you feel truly willing.
Can I reach out even if I am not sure if I want to start therapy?
Yes, you’re welcome to reach out by email or phone with any questions you may have. Furthermore, I always offer a free 45-minute consultation, there’s no obligation to continue afterwards. My email and phone number is tatjanahartmanntherapy@gmail.com, +41 (0)77 482 57 67 (WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, Viber, Skype).
Are we likely to be a good fit?
We will probably get along well if…
- You want someone warm, open-minded, and genuine as your therapist. You prefer a human and relaxed atmosphere over a very formal, clinical setting.
- You’re seeking a therapy style that is open, flexible, and free of agendas – this will allow us to create a space where you can bring whatever is on your mind in the moment.
- From what you’ve read so far, you resonate with my style of communication on this website.
- Remember, trust your intuition!
What is therapy Price?
I provide low-cost counselling like by UK services like MIND and Headstrong (which is offered by trainee counsellors who need to meet a minimum specified number of hours to become qualified or accredited).
The value of each session varies according to your monthly income.
Monthly Income (Gross) – (1 hour)
<1500 £/€/$ – 15 £/€/$
1500-3500 £/€/$ – 20 £/€/$
> 3500 £/€/$ – 25 £/€/$
For Swiss residents: Costs are lower then with Swiss obligatory insurance.
We will determine where you fit on the scale before our first session and we will re-evaluate the fee if your financial situation changes.
If your therapy is paid for by a parent or guardian, the session fee is based on their income.
What is the Cancellation policy?
I understand things happen that interfere with our plans: falling sick, transport accidents, other responsibilities…
It is always possible to reschedule or cancel a session. However, keep in mind that 75% of the session fee is charged if a session is canceled within 24 hours and 100% is charged for a no-show. This may not apply to sessions missed due to unforeseen or inevitable circumstances. Cancellations made 24 hours in advance are not charged.
Is it covered by Insurance?
For Swiss residents: My prices are lower then with the Swiss obligatory insurance. Our sessions are not covered under Swiss obligatory health insurance. However, additional Swiss and some international insurance may cover a portion of the fees. I encourage you to contact your insurance to see what options are available for you.
Where do we meet?
We can meet online via Teams, Zoom, Skype or Viber.
It is also possible to meat in therapy rooms in the city of Zurich.
How do you support yourself as a therapist?
To ensure the best possible care for both my clients and myself as a therapist, I regularly meet with my supervisor and take part in supportive intervision groups. On a personal level, I make sure to take good care of myself and surround myself with good company.
Is everything I share in therapy confidential?
Yes, anything you share is confidential and I could only disclose it with your written consent.
There are a few situations where confidentiality can be breached:
- Risk of Harm: Confidentiality may be broken to ensure safety:
- To prevent self-harm, if the client refuses steps to guarantee their safety.
- To warn and protect others if the client poses a threat to someone else.
- Child Abuse or Neglect: Therapists must report suspected abuse or neglect of a child or vulnerable adult to the authorities.
- Court Orders: Therapists may be legally required to disclose information if ordered by a court.
- Supervision and Consultation: Limited information may be shared, without any identifying information, for professional supervision or consultation to improve care.
Do you give diagnoses and medication?
No, I do not provide diagnoses. Neither I can provide a psychiatrist or prescribe medication. I am familiar with some DSM-5 mental health disorders and can recognize and explain their symptoms.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, clinical psychologist, psychiatrist, therapist, psychotherapist, counsellor and coach?
There is often overlap between these terms, and their meanings and licensing requirements vary depending on the regulations of the country where the practitioner is based. I recommend looking at someone’s educational background to fully understand their profession and approach. That being said, here’s a general overview:
- A psychologist is someone who holds a psychology degree. The term is often used to refer to someone who has specialized in treating mental health conditions, but that’s just one of the many branches of psychology! There are psychologists who provide therapy, and there are others who do academic research.
- A clinical psychologist is a type of psychologist who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. They typically see more “severe” cases.
- A psychiatrist has studied medicine and specializes in psychiatry, the branch of medicine that focuses on diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. They are the only mental health professional qualified to prescribe medication.
- A psychotherapist is someone who has extensive training in treating mental health. In some countries, it is used interchangeably with “therapist” or “psychologist”, but in others, “psychotherapist” is a protected title, only accessible to those who have completed specific post-masters training.
- A therapist is a broad term for someone who provides therapy to individuals, couples or groups. They might come from various training backgrounds such as psychology, counseling, social work, or other therapeutic modalities.
- A counselor is a professional who provides guidance and support to individuals or groups dealing with emotional, psychological, or social issues.
- A coach is someone who helps individuals set and achieve personal goals, often around behavior change, performance, or personal development. They usually don’t have formal education to treat mental health conditions but have certifications from coaching organizations.
Data Protection Policy
You can find the Data Protection Policy here.
Ethics Code
The therapeutic relationship relies on clearly defined rights, responsibilities and ethical guidelines to ensure a safe and supportive environment. As a counsellor based in the Switzerland, I abide by the Ethics Basics of the Swiss Assosiation for Counseling.
Emergency - Suicidality
I can’t help in Emergency and acute Suicidality.
If you are currently experiencing a acute mental health crisis, you can:
See or call your doctor,
Contact a clinic (or hospital) with a psychiatric department,
Contact the medical (psychiatric) emergency service,
Or contact a support or counseling service for acute crisis situations in your country.
If I feel overwhelmed or even blackmailed by the suicidal person, there is an immediate danger to myself or others and I will not hesitate to immediately contact a psychiatric emergency service, the emergency services or the police.