If you’re a member of a Krankenkasse (public health fund), then the costs of psychotherapy will be fully covered. However, there are a number of conditions that you should be aware of:
You’ll need confirmation from a psychotherapist that treatment is medically necessary. According to new measures for treating publicly insured patients that came into effect in 2018, this confirmation can only be achieved through a psychological consultation.
Covered conditions generally include:
Anxiety disorders
Depression
Eating disorders
Personality disorders
Psychosomatic disorders
Addiction
Behavior disorders
Compulsive disorders
Psychotherapeutic support may also be indicated in the case of severe physical illnesses that lead to a high level of psychological suffering.
You may have to deal with long waiting times before you see a therapist. Unfortunately, the supply of qualified therapists hasn’t caught up with demand in Germany. This means that the average waiting time for Krankenkasse-funded psychotherapy is around 20 weeks.
As a person with statutory health insurance, you should always consult a medical or psychological psychotherapist who has the appropriate license (state license for medical treatment). Unfortunately, psychotherapeutic treatment by non-medical practitioners cannot be covered by statutory health insurance. Also have in mind that public insurance generally does not cover private clinics.
Most of public insurers offer a direct search tool to find a doctor:
Free Resources:
If you're in need of free resources unrelated to your public health policy coverage, consider these choices that offer accessible mental health support in Germany, including diverse hotlines, a nonprofit English helpline, a 24/7 online chat service, and comprehensive help for mental health challenges.
TelefonSeelsorge: Nonprofit with trained volunteers. English Helpline: 030-44 01 06 07
Open Counseling: Hotlines for various health topics in Germany
7cups: Online chat service with 24/7 volunteers for listening support
Suizidprophylaxe.de: Offers resources and support for mental health challenges (German only)
Disclaimer: We are not affiliated with these organisations in any way