FAQ
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Frequently Asked Questions
Will cognitive behavioural psychotherapy help me with my problem?
Cognitive-behavioural psychotherapy is an effective method of treating many mental disorders and problems. If we are not sure whether it will be helpful in our case, it is worth having a consultation meeting. During the meeting, the psychotherapist will assess whether this form of intervention will prove to be effective.
How long will the therapy take?
The length of a therapy depends on the type and severity of experienced difficulties. Cognitive-behavioural psychotherapy is a time-limited therapy. Patients, with the therapist’s help, strive to achieve therapeutic goals defined at the beginning of the treatment. There are problems that can be solved in a few or a dozen of sessions. Others require several months or several years of work.
How long is one session and how often do the meetings take place?
A standard psychotherapy session lasts 50 minutes and takes place once a week. Some sessions may be longer (e.g. exposure sessions) and are pre-arranged with a therapist. In some cases, sessions may take place twice a week as a result of the treatment protocol or a significant deterioration in a patient’s mental state.
Can a session be cancelled? What happens if I don’t come to the meeting?
Psychotherapy sessions can always be cancelled. Patients do not incur any costs if they cancel their session at least 24 hours before the appointment. If the session is cancelled within 24 hours before or if a patient does not show to the meeting, the session is then fully paid.
The patient does not pay for sessions that have been previously cancelled either by them or the therapist.
If patients are late for their session, the appointment ends on time (we do not extend the session). The price remains the same. Therapy process may be significantly hindered if patients cancel subsequent appointments and these are not scheduled absences (e.g. holidays).
The above rules apply to both stationary and online sessions. All emergencies should be discussed with the therapist.
Can a psychotherapist prescribe me medications?
If the psychotherapist is not a medical practitioner, they cannot treat their patients with any medications. Pharmacological treatment can be prescribed by a psychiatrist.
How to book a consultation?
To book a consultation, you can use the online booking calendar available in the “Online Reservation” tab. Please note that the calendar displays available slots up to 7 days in advance and no earlier than 24 hours before the appointment. You can also contact our reception by phone, message, e-mail, or contact form. We especially encourage this option if you cannot find a suitable time in the calendar or if you have any questions.
What does the first session look like?
The first session is conducted as a consultation. During the initial 1–3 consultation sessions, the psychologist or psychotherapist conducts a detailed interview, reviews the patient’s treatment history, assesses the difficulties, and collaborates with the patient to develop a preliminary conceptualization of the problem. Depending on the patient’s needs and challenges, the psychologist may provide psychological support and guidance or work with the patient to establish therapy goals and outline the details of further cooperation.
What does it mean that a therapist is certified?
Psychotherapy training lasts 4 years and is of a practical nature. This means that during the course, the trainee psychotherapist is required to work with patients and receive supervision for their practice. Accredited CBT training can be undertaken by graduates holding a master’s degree in psychology, pedagogy, nursing, or medicine. After completing the training and successfully passing the examinations, the psychotherapist may apply for certification from the PTTPB (Polish Society of Cognitive and Behavioural Therapy).