Psychotherapy in Geneva
General
I am a psychological psychotherapist and have been working in my own practice in Geneva since 2010. In recent years, I have expanded my enthusiasm for learning through teaching activities: I am increasingly dedicated to the training and continuing education of young colleagues (supervision, self-awareness, teaching, supervision of interns in their master’s program in psychology at the University of Geneva).
My therapeutic approach is essentially based on two pillars: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and clarification-oriented psychotherapy (COP). I work with adults in individual settings or with couples. I also offer group settings in self-awareness and supervision (so I do not do systemic family work).
Counseling or psychotherapy?
Everyone has their ups and downs in life. Often we find good ways to overcome life’s challenges on our own, but when we get stuck or it becomes “too much” for us, professional help in the form of psychological counseling or psychotherapy can be helpful and advisable.
In this context, I like to mention the “Life Event Scale” by Holmes and Rahe to normalize that several formative life events (positive as well as negative, such as “marriage”, “moving”, or “birth of the first child” as well as “loss of job”, “illness” or “death of a close relative”) within a short period of time can stress us to the point that we develop somatic and/or psychological symptoms. Frequently mentioned in this regard are sleep problems, nervousness or anxiety, as well as depressive moods, diffuse dissatisfaction or relationship problems. These do not necessarily have to have the value of a disease, but show that we tend to underestimate the effects of these life events.
Psychotherapy deals with the treatment and change of disorders (which are described and measured by clearly defined criteria; see ICD or DSM). Psychological counseling, on the other hand, is indicated when it is not (yet) a disorder, but only one or a few symptom(s), or when someone wants to know and grow in terms of self-awareness.
Online or face-to-face?
The pandemic has shown us that psychotherapy and psychological counseling are also effective online.
It is important to note that some tools or resources I use in person may not be available digitally. Furthermore, establishing a therapeutic relationship is easier in person, where the nuances of interpersonal contact are more perceptible. Despite technological advancements, direct interactions offer clarity and a deeper connection without potential audiovisual transmission errors.
However, I would to emphasize that online therapy is an option I frequently use due to various circumstances. Despite my preference for face-to-face sessions, I appreciate the flexibility and effectiveness of online consultations, and happily adapt to the needs of my patients.
