Online Therapy
Frequently asked questions
I am a licensed non-medical practitioner for psychotherapy (Heilpraktikerin) and offer integrative psychotherapy in accordance with the German Heilpraktiker Law – online, in English, German and Spanish. My work is focused on cognitive behavioral therapy and incorporates elements of depth psychology, systemic therapy and mindfulness-based approaches.
Online therapy and the first session
How does online therapy work?
Sessions take place online by video call. We arrange appointments by agreement; my office hours are Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm. A session lasts 50 minutes and costs €80.
What happens in the first session?
The first session lasts 50 minutes. We get to know each other and clarify whether working together is a good fit – with no obligation. Afterwards, we define goals, frequency and the framework for our sessions together.
How do I request a first session?
By phone at +49 157 73757175, by email at laurawicke@gmail.com, or through the contact form on the home page. I usually get back to you within 48 hours. There is no wrong way to take the first step.
Which languages are sessions available in?
Sessions are available in English, German and Spanish.
My approach
What does integrative psychotherapy mean in your work?
My work is focused on cognitive behavioral therapy and integrates elements from depth psychology, systemic therapy and mindfulness-based approaches. This allows me to respond individually and flexibly to your needs. My work is always solution-focused and aims to help you help yourself.
Do you work with cognitive behavioral therapy?
Yes, it is the focus of my work. We work in a solution-focused way and in the here and now: together we develop strategies you can apply in everyday life, dissolve negative thought patterns through cognitive restructuring, and strengthen the awareness and regulation of emotions.
What concerns can I come to you with?
My areas of work include depressive moods, adjustment disorders, anxiety, stress and exhaustion, grief and loss, self-acceptance, negative thought and behavior patterns, and living abroad. I also offer support in difficult life situations and solution-focused counseling. Whether your concern is a good fit for my work is something we clarify in the first session.
How do I know whether it is a good fit?
That is what the first session is for: you get to know me and how I work without any commitment. It is important to me that you feel safe and accepted as a whole person; we talk with each other at eye level.
Costs and framework
How much does a session cost?
A session costs €80. For students and unemployed people the price is €75 per session.
Does health insurance cover the costs?
Sessions are billed privately and are generally not covered by German statutory health insurance, because I work outside statutory health insurance care. Whether private health insurance, supplementary insurance or state aid (Beihilfe) reimburses costs depends on your plan – please check with your insurer beforehand.
Qualification and safety
What does “Licensed Non-Medical Practitioner for Psychotherapy (Heilpraktikerin)” mean?
I work on the basis of a license under the German Heilpraktiker Law, issued by the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg, which restricts the practice of healing arts to the field of psychotherapy. This license is not a medical license (Approbation) as a physician or psychological psychotherapist. I also completed training in Integrative Psychotherapy (IPT) at the HPA Heilpraktiker Academy. I am bound by statutory confidentiality under Sec. 203 of the German Criminal Code.
Is this an emergency or crisis service?
No. My service is not an emergency or crisis service and does not replace medical diagnosis or emergency care. In an acute emergency, or if there is an acute risk to yourself or others, call 112 in Germany or go to the nearest emergency room. The medical on-call service can be reached at 116 117, and the Telefonseelsorge crisis line is free and available around the clock at 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222 (German-speaking). If you are abroad, please use the local emergency number.