Many people put off their first conversation about what is bothering them for years. At first it seems it will pass on its own, then there is no time, and eventually it feels too late to change anything. In reality, a conversation at the beginning is almost always shorter, easier and more effective than the same conversation several years later.
It does not have to be a crisis
A common misconception is that people only see a psychologist when things are already severe. Most come with entirely ordinary topics: exhaustion, family conflict, moving to a foreign country, uncertainty at work. You do not need a diagnosis in order to talk about yourself.
Typical reasons for a first session
- constant inner tension, sleep problems or irritability
- conflicts that keep repeating — with a partner or with children
- the feeling that you have not really arrived in Germany yet
- loss, grief or a difficult separation
- a decision you have been postponing for months
- loneliness, even when you are surrounded by people
Signs that it is time
There is no ruler for measuring emotional strain. But a few indicators are fairly reliable. You think about the same thing every day and get nowhere. Your body reacts — headaches, stomach, a racing heart — even though doctors say you are physically fine. You withdraw from people and activities you used to enjoy. Or the people close to you say that you have changed.
What happens in a session
The first meeting is mainly about putting the situation in order: what weighs on you most right now, how long it has been going on, and what you have already tried. From there it becomes clear what is actually worth working on. You do not have to say anything you do not want to say, and you decide calmly afterwards whether to continue.
Sessions are held in German, Ukrainian, Russian or Polish — in person in Wuppertal or online by video.
Important: counselling does not replace medical treatment
Psychological counselling is not a substitute for medical or psychotherapeutic treatment. If you feel very unwell right now, or you are having thoughts of ending your life, please call 112 immediately, or the free 24-hour Telefonseelsorge helpline: 0800 111 0 111 and 0800 111 0 222.
The first step is free
A short introductory conversation of about 15 minutes is free and comes with no obligation. It exists to answer one question: is this a good fit for you? Write to me through the contact form or on WhatsApp — I usually reply the same day.
Read also
- Settling in Germany: understanding and coping with culture shock
- Online counselling: how a video session works
- All services
Would you like to talk about this? Have a look at the prices and how a session works, or book a first conversation — the first 15 minutes are free.