Getting Started / Office Policies
Contact me
Please contact me by leaving a message on my voicemail at 0175. 954 96 85. I will return your call within 24 hours and we can briefly discuss any initial questions you might have. If you prefer you can also contact me by e-mail at contact@psychotherapy-dombrowe.com.
Initial meetings
Generally speaking, it is a good idea to set up between one to four initial sessions so that we can get a more detailed picture of the issues bringing you to therapy. During our initial consultation meetings we will both decide if I am the best person to provide the services you need. If either you or I decide for any reason that you would be better helped by another professional or method of intervention, I will offer referrals for alternative services or providers. If we decide to continue with ongoing psychotherapy we will usually schedule one session per week at a mutually convenient time. A regular psychotherapy session lasts for 50 minutes. Short-term psychotherapy lasts about 25 sessions. Long-term psychotherapy lasts between 50 and 80 sessions.
Confidentiality
The law protects the relationship between a client and a psychotherapist. Information cannot be disclosed without written permission. However there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. If a client intends to harm himself or herself, the therapist will make every effort to enlist the client's cooperation to insure his or her safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken in order to ensure his or her safety. If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person, the psychotherapist is legally required to take the necessary measures for the protection of the third party.
Cooperation
If you decide to take up psychotherapy, your active cooperation is required. You need to be ready to speak of your inner experiences, even if this may sometimes feel embarrassing or frightening. You should also be aware that the therapeutic process may cause a temporary intensification of your symptoms.
Cancellation policy
If you do not show up for your scheduled therapy appointment, and you have not notified to me at least 48 hours in advance, you will be required to pay the full cost of the session. If the session is scheduled for Monday, you need to notify me before Friday 6 pm.
Because the success of therapy depends on the regularity and continuity of our meetings, the expectation is that we will meet regularly at the time that we decide upon together. Once we agree on a regular time to meet during the week, I will reserve those hours for you. It is understandable that on occasion you will need to cancel or reschedule the session. If it is necessary to reschedule or cancel an appointment, I require that you provide me with at least 48 hours advance notice in order to avoid being charged for the session.
Untimely termination
If you decide to quit the therapy, I recommend that we meet for at least one additional session so that we can discuss the reasons that have led to your decision.
Limitations of psychotherapy in private office
- For patients with acute suicidal tendencies an ambulant psychotherapy is not adequate. In this case a stationary treatment in a psychiatric hospital is necessary.
- A stationary treatment in a psychiatric hospital is necessary in case of an acute psychotic episode.
- Patients with acute substance abuse issues need a stationary detoxification and treatment program, before an ambulant psychotherapy can take place.
- A stationary treatment in a psychiatric hospital is necessary for patients with eating disturbances in a critical physical condition.