Getting help through psychotherapy
Our experienced therapists use different approaches and methods to treat psychological problems effectively.
In psychotherapy, psychological problems or emotional suffering can be treated through interaction between therapist and patient. Among other things, psychotherapy helps to cope with stress, promote mental health and develop self-confidence and acceptance.
Underlying patterns of thought and behaviour are uncovered and worked on in order to bring about long-term change.
Healthy coping strategies are developed and stressful experiences are dealt with in order to support those affected.
Do you have questions about
psychotherapy?
We will be happy to help you decide which psychotherapeutic method is right for you. If you are unsure, please give us a call or send us an e-mail. We will advise you free of charge.
How exactly does psychotherapy work and what are the exact effects of the methods?
Psychotherapy comprises a variety of methods with different approaches to treating the problem. These will now be briefly explained to give you an initial insight into the different areas.
The course of psychotherapy usually begins with a detailed diagnosis, the definition of therapy goals and the selection of the appropriate method of therapy. The sessions take place regularly, and the number of sessions is adjusted if necessary.
Behavioural therapy
Behavioural therapy aims to identify and change unwanted behaviours and thoughts using techniques such as cognitive restructuring. It is used successfully for many disorders such as anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders and sleep disorders.
Depth psychology therapy
Depth psychology therapy explores unconscious aspects and takes past experiences and relationships into account in order to understand psychological conflicts and traumas. It is used for acute depression, post-traumatic stress disorders and panic disorders to resolve inner conflicts and heal wounds.
Trauma therapy
Trauma therapy aims to regain control over the psyche and body after life-threatening situations that leave impulses for action and states of arousal in the “trauma memory”. The duration of the therapy is individual and varies depending on the need and the wishes of the person affected. This form of therapy treats various disorders.
Online consultation
The online consultation offers a flexible option for therapy or counselling from any location with Internet access. The advantages are convenience, a greater choice of therapists and the opportunity to open up in a familiar environment. However, a lack of personal interaction and technical problems can be disadvantages.
In search of a
therapy place?
At MVZ for psychotherapy Odendahl & Brinkmann, you will be looked after by licensed, legally authorised psychotherapists, qualified psychologists, experienced educationalists and experts in various specialisations. Our broad-based team offers you exactly the support you need.
Our diversity of specialisations is what sets us apart. We can promptly provide you with a reliable and competent contact person for your concerns.
But when is psychotherapy really useful?
People often have thoughts such as “I’m not ill enough for psychotherapy” or “I can manage somehow on my own”. Fear of the reactions of others to this decision can also prevent people from seeking therapy. For these reasons, people seek help too late and prefer to deal with the problem on their own. It is therefore important to know when it is necessary to start psychotherapy.
You can ask yourself a few questions to help you:
- Are the problems restricting you in your day-to-day life?
- Are your worries and problems putting a strain on your relationship with your partner, friends or family?
- Do you no longer enjoy your activities?
- Have you experienced a traumatising event?
- Have you failed in your attempt to deal with the problem on your own?
Do these questions appeal to you or have you perhaps even considered seeking help in the form of psychotherapy?
Seek professional help in the form of psychotherapy or a medical consultation, for example with your family doctor. You are also welcome to request an initial consultation with us.
Your benefits at MVZ Köln
Psychotherapy plays an essential role in mental health. It offers people in stressful life situations professional support to overcome challenges and develop a better understanding of themselves. In our fast-paced and often stressful world, it is important to take mental health just as seriously as physical health.
We would encourage anyone who feels they need support to take the step of reaching out. The decision to seek therapy is an important and positive step towards a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Therefore, please do not hesitate to seek professional help and contact us.
Course of psychotherapy
- 1
Getting to know each other: During the initial consultation, it is important that both parties get to know each other well and that the patient-therapist relationship is right for you. This is important so that you feel comfortable and can open up during the rest of the process. As soon as the first trial session has taken place and the appointment for the second session has been made, the therapist can submit an application for short-term or long-term therapy. The initial sessions are also used for diagnostic purposes.
- 2
Therapy phase: In the ongoing psychotherapy, the focus is on the conversation in which you can freely express your thoughts, feelings and wishes. Different questions will help you to understand yourself better and give the therapist a more precise insight into your emotional world. The frequency of the sessions can be customized.
- 3
Closing phase: When the goal of the therapy has been achieved, the end of the sessions is initiated. Preparations are made to say goodbye to therapy so that the transition and change do not affect you. Questions about your further development, your goals and your successes will be asked and answered. The number of sessions per week can be reduced slowly so that there is no sudden and abrupt end.
Individual therapy vs. Group therapy
Individual therapy
In individual therapy, you have the therapist’s full attention to yourself. This means you can open up completely and talk about your personal issues without feeling observed or judged by others. The therapy can be tailored to your individual needs, which can be particularly helpful if you want to discuss very private or intimate issues. However, only your perspective is available, which can sometimes lead to a limited point of view.
Group therapy
In group therapy, on the other hand, you share your experiences and challenges with other people who have similar problems. This can be very supportive and relieving, as you are in a community of people who understand and can support you. The group also offers the opportunity to get to know different perspectives and approaches. However, it can also be challenging to open up in a group and share personal things with others. Also, the group dynamic can sometimes distract from your individual needs.
Indications for individual and group therapy depend on several factors, including the nature and severity of your issues as well as personal preferences and comfort levels. Individual therapy is often well suited for individuals who want to work through very personal issues or have difficulty opening up in groups. Group therapy can be particularly helpful if you want to benefit from the support and feedback of others and feel safe in a group. In some cases, a combination of the two can also be useful to reap the benefits of both approaches. Ultimately, it is important to work with a professional to determine the most appropriate form of therapy for you.
Online consultation
An online consultation offers a flexible and convenient way to receive therapy or counseling from home or anywhere else with internet access. However, as with everything, online consultations have their advantages and disadvantages.
One clear advantage is convenience. Imagine not having to travel long distances to the practice. Instead, you can simply snuggle up in your coziest pajamas while you complete your therapy session from the comfort of your sofa. This not only saves time, but also stress and money for the journey. Plus, you are at home, where you may feel most comfortable and therefore more likely to open up.
Another advantage is the greater choice of therapists. If you live in a rural area or can’t find a therapist in your area that suits you, an online consultation gives you access to a wider range of professionals who can better meet your needs.
But of course, online consultations also have their disadvantages. The lack of face-to-face interaction can be a challenge for some people. It can be more difficult to build a trusting relationship from both sides when you’re not face-to-face. There can also be technical problems, such as poor internet connections or sound and image interference, which can affect the therapy process.
An online consultation is particularly suitable for people who are unable to attend therapy in person, whether for health reasons, lack of time or other reasons. Online consultations can also be a practical solution for people who live in remote areas or travel a lot.
To use an online consultation, all you need is a computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone with a stable internet connection and a webcam and microphone. A quiet room where you can be undisturbed is also important to make the session effective.
At the MVZ for psychotherapy in Cologne, you can choose from many different options that can be used individually.
Psychotherapy plays an essential role in mental health. It offers people in stressful life situations professional support to overcome challenges and develop a better understanding of themselves. In our fast-paced and often stressful world, it is important to take mental health just as seriously as physical health.
We would encourage anyone who feels they need support to take the step of reaching out. The decision to seek therapy is an important and positive step towards a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Therefore, please do not hesitate to seek professional help and contact us.
