Dog-assisted therapy
Psychotherapist

Dr. Lea Eichfelder

Osterdeich 17
28203 Bremen

Psychotherapist

Dr. Lea Eichfelder

Osterdeich 17
28203 Bremen

Behavioral therapy

In my work as a therapist, I apply the guideline procedures of behavioral therapy, which have proven effective in treating many mental disorders. Using cognitive behavioral therapy methods, I help my patients positively influence their emotional world by changing their thinking and behavior patterns. A fundamental goal is to gain a better understanding of the individual development of the current problem. Therefore, in a collaborative 'detective work,' together we search for causes, triggers, and maintaining factors of that problem.

In therapy, specific treatment methods and interventions are then tailored individually to your situation and issues.
The main goal of behavior therapy is to provide you with empowerment resources and support you in actively and independently solving your problems. As a patient, you play an active role in your process of change.

Dog-assisted therapy

An important component of behavior therapy in my office is my four-legged co-therapist, Lomi. Since she has her own separated area inside the office, she can participate in sessions and interact if desired, or she can remain at a distance from the patient in her designated area. Lomi is a very affectionate and cuddly dog who generally enjoys seeking contact with people.

Dog-assisted psychotherapy utilizes the interaction between humans and dogs to enhance mental health and well-being. The presence of dogs during therapy sessions can help reduce stress, boost self-confidence, improve social skills, and uplift mood. This form of therapy has been shown to have positive effects on various mental health conditions, including individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, or anxiety. The empathic nature of dogs can contribute to creating a supportive and safe environment for therapeutic work, especially for individuals who have difficulty building up trust with other humans.

About me

Psychotherapists

As a licensed psychological psychotherapist specializing in behavior therapy with a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology, my therapeutic approach is characterized by an atmosphere of appreciation and transparency. Therefore, it is an essential part of my work to initially establish a trusting and open therapeutic relationship with therapist and patient on an equal footing. Based on this foundation, I accompany you in understanding the (often biographically rooted) origin of your problems, formulating individual goals, and finding ways to achieve positive changes in your life.

In my therapeutic work, I am dedicated to supporting individuals facing a variety of mental health challenges. My expertise includes treating depression and anxiety disorders, as well as providing guidance following traumatic life events. Additionally, my main focuses lie in the treatment of personality disorders and issues related to sexual identity. However, psychotherapy can also be supportive in addressing a wide range of questions regarding life choices and relationships.


Application and fees

Application

Before beginning psychotherapy, the probatory phase takes place, which consists of up to five sessions. During this period, we get to know each other and work together to understand your concerns. We establish initial priorities and set goals together. During this phase, you have the opportunity to familiarize yourself with me and my approach. The probatory phase concludes with a diagnosis and planning for further therapy, including an estimation of the required therapy sessions, typically ranging from 24 to 60 sessions. After completing the probatory phase and diagnosis, an application for psychotherapy is submitted to your insurance.

If you are interested in a psychotherapy with me, please feel free to contact me to schedule an initial consultation.

Fees

The fees in my office are based on the Fee Schedule for Psychotherapists (GOP). Probatory and therapeutic sessions are therefore calculated with a multiplier of 3.0. Hence, the cost for a session (50 minutes) currently amounts to 131.16€. In addition to the regular sessions, there are costs for diagnosis and application during the probatory phase.

I would be happy to send you a summary of the typical cost components via email.

Private patients and those eligible for assistance

Usually, private health insurance companies and subsidy offices cover the costs of psychotherapy up to 2.3 times the escalation factor. Please note that you may incur a cost share.

The extent of the costs covered depends in part on your individual contract terms. Before starting therapy, please clarify with your health insurance or subsidy office how and to what extent the costs of psychotherapy will be reimbursed.

Important questions to ask your private health insurance or subsidy office are:

  • How many trial sessions are reimbursed?
  • Is there a limit on the number of sessions per year?
  • Is only a certain percentage of the fee reimbursed according to GOP?
  • Are there forms to be filled out? Please bring them to the initial consultation!
Self-payers

Of course, you also have the option to bear the treatment costs yourself.

Statutory health-insurance insured individuals

Public health insurances cover the costs of therapy in my private practice only through the so-called reimbursement procedure. This is a procedure for patients who, despite requiring treatment, were unable to secure a therapy spot in a practice with statutory health insurance approval, or who are faced with unreasonably long waiting times there. I would be happy to send you information about the process of reimbursement via email.

Bundeswehr

For the coverage of the costs of psychotherapy, soldiers, with appropriate indication, require a cost coverage declaration (San/Bw/0218), which needs to be filled out by your military doctor and presented during the initial consultation in my practice.


Contact

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