Psychotherapist

Field of activity

The field of activity includes the treatment of illnesses that can be treated with psychotherapeutic methods according to recognized scientific doctrine.

Professional aptitude/ further training

The professional aptitude for practicing the profession of psychotherapist is possessed by those who:

a) has a consecutive Master's degree or a corresponding Licentiate, Magister or Diplom degree in psychology from a recognized university, college or university of applied sciences with:

1. A major or minor in clinical psychology; or

2. at least 25 ECTS credits in clinical psychology and psychopathology at Master's level;

b) has completed postgraduate specialist training as a psychotherapist. This training must be in a scientifically recognized psychotherapy method whose effectiveness extends over a broad field of application. The minimum requirements include

1. 400 hours of theory;

2. 400 session hours of own psychotherapeutic activity;

3. 10 cases treated or undergoing treatment, documented and supervised;

4. 200 hours of supervision, of which at least 50 hours in an individual setting;

5. 100 session hours of self-awareness, including at least 50 session hours in an individual setting; and

c) at least three years of postgraduate practical psychotherapeutic work with mentally ill people under professional supervision. At least half of this work must have been completed in a clinic, outpatient clinic or psychosocial institution.

Special features

When practising their profession, psychotherapists must limit themselves to those psychological fields and methods in which they have demonstrably acquired sufficient knowledge and experience.

Licensing procedure and requirements

In accordance with Art. 7 ff of the Health Act and Art. 69 to 71 of the Health Ordinance.