Understanding and Accessing Mental Health Support in Germany

Mental health care in Germany is covered under public health insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV), including most psychological and psychotherapeutic services. Here’s how to access support efficiently and with confidence under the current system.

Step 1: Know Your Coverage and Rights

Public health insurance covers psychotherapy, psychiatric care, and initial diagnostic sessions. As of 2025, insured individuals are entitled to:

• Up to five trial sessions (Probatorik) without prior authorization

• Full coverage of psychotherapy, once approved, with no upfront costs

• Access to online therapy options (e.g., via apps or video calls) under expanded Digitale Gesundheitsanwendungen (DiGA)

Tip: Contact your Krankenkasse or check their website to see which therapists are approved (Kassenzulassung) and whether they offer language-specific support.

Step 2: Start with a Hausarzt or Direct Contact

You no longer need a referral from a general practitioner (Hausarzt) to see a psychotherapist. You can directly contact therapists with statutory accreditation. However, visiting your Hausarzt first is still a good idea if:

• You need a general health assessment

• You require medication or a psychiatric referral

• You want help navigating the system

They can also suggest trusted therapists or refer you to a psychiatrist for combined care (therapy + medication).

Step 3: Finding and Contacting a Therapist

Use the Kassenärztliche Vereinigung (KV) online tool (www.116117.de) to search for approved therapists in your area. Filter by language, gender, and therapy method (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, depth psychology, etc.).

Reach out directly and ask:

• Do you accept GKV patients?

• Do you currently have availability?

• Can we do the first session in English (or your preferred language)?

Due to demand, waiting times can be several weeks—ask to be placed on a waiting list or inquire about open consultation hours (Psychotherapeutische Sprechstunde), which all licensed therapists must now offer by law.

Step 4: Attend Initial Sessions and Agree on a Plan

You’re entitled to up to five trial sessions to see if the therapist is a good fit and to assess your needs. After these, your therapist will submit a therapy request (Antrag auf Psychotherapie) to your Krankenkasse for approval.

In most cases, if medically justified, approval is straightforward. You do not have to submit this yourself—your therapist handles it.

Step 5: Begin Regular Treatment and Stay Engaged

Once approved, your treatment begins—typically 12 to 60 sessions depending on the therapy method. All sessions are covered under public insurance with no additional cost.

If you’re seeing a private therapist (without Kassenzulassung), you’ll need to cover costs yourself or request reimbursement, which may or may not be approved.

Make sure to:

• Keep your therapist and Krankenkasse updated if you change address, insurance, or health status

• Engage consistently and communicate any challenges

• Ask about digital tools or group therapy options if appropriate

Additional Notes for 2025:

• Teletherapy and digital mental health apps are increasingly reimbursed by GKV. Ask your provider about DiGA-approved tools.

• For crisis support, you can call 116 117 or contact local social psychiatric services (Sozialpsychiatrischer Dienst) without needing an appointment.

• If you’ve already received therapy in another country, your treatment history may support faster access—bring documentation if available.

Your mental well-being is a right, not a privilege. Germany’s health system offers comprehensive support—don’t hesitate to reach out, ask questions, and advocate for the care you need.