FAQ

ADHD is a clinical diagnosis and is therefore ultimately based on the criteria of a specialist. In order for the specialist to be able to make both subjective and objective statements, they must be able to combine data from interviews, observations, behavioural assessments, neuropsychological tests and, in our case, a scientifically tested brain function analysis in a big picture. All these findings are discussed with the patient or their representative.

Psychotherapist is the professional title for a mental-health related profession.

Only doctors and psychologists may become psychotherapists. After completing their studies, they must have completed many years of further training to become a psychotherapist.

Psychotherapists are divided into medical psychotherapists and psychological psychotherapists according to their entry qualification and their main areas of work:

Medical psychotherapists have first completed a medical degree and then qualified as a psychotherapist.

Psychological psychotherapists are psychologists by training. They have also completed a qualification as a psychotherapist following their studies.

Only psychological psychotherapists and medical psychotherapists are authorised to offer psychotherapy.

As a general rule, medication may only be prescribed by medical psychotherapists, psychiatrists, medical specialists, neurologists and, of course, general practitioners. Sick notes and certificates of incapacity for work may also only be issued by these professional groups.

In our clinic, all psychotherapists and doctors work on their own responsibility and for their own account. However, we are closely networked in terms of content and work together on an interdisciplinary basis.

ADHD is a clinical diagnosis and is therefore ultimately based on the criteria of a specialist. In order for the specialist to be able to make both subjective and objective statements, they must be able to combine data from interviews, observations, behavioural assessments, neuropsychological tests and, in our case, a scientifically tested brain function analysis in a big picture. All these findings are discussed with the patient or their representative.

In our practice, an assessment is carried out according to a set plan: first, an initial consultation is conducted for anamnesis. This is followed by two to three appointments to assess the findings using a standardised interview, test psychology, neuropsychology and brain function analysis. Finally, an evaluation meeting takes place.

It is primarily an EEG with evoked potentials. With evoked potentials, the patient is presented with images and sounds that trigger specific, clearly defined information processing. This analysis usually takes about an hour.

The reliability of EEG data is over 90%. This means that what we measure today can most probably be determined in exactly the same way tomorrow or in a month's time. The EEG only changes over time due to age, which must be taken into account, especially in children. The validity (content validity) of the brain function analysis can also be described as good in relation to ADHD: It is not individual markers that determine a diagnosis, but a selection of 800 to 900 variables that can be measured. Studies have shown that around 50 to 60 of these variables are significant for determining ADHD. Markers for individual brain functions such as arousal, vigilance, activity, control and behaviour can be measured with a high degree of reliability.

The basis for this is data that we collected from 1200 healthy people from the canton of Graubünden between 2004 and 2007. This database complies with both European and American quality standards.

Neuropsychological tests are standardised tasks and questions that are used to measure specific neuropsychological functions of the brain and to identify cognitive strengths and weaknesses.

Please register using the registration form. This will provide us with all the information we need to contact you. A prescription from your family doctor/pediatrician/psychiatrist (“Anordnung für Psychotherapie”) and your health insurance details are mandatory (except for private payers).

If you are already undergoing counselling or therapy with us, the best way to contact us is by e-mail. We will then arrange a telephone call with you as soon as possible. For new registrations, please use the registration form.

There is currently a waiting time. We will contact you for appointments at least 4 weeks in advance.

Please bring your health insurance card and any prior reports with you to your first appointment.

Yes, the costs of psychological psychotherapy and/or counselling are covered by the Swiss basic insurance (excl. Franchise and patient’s contribution). The prerequisite for this is a doctor's prescription. The order can be issued by your family doctor.

The referring doctor (GP/pediatrician/psychiatrist) issues a prescription for psychological psychotherapy for a maximum of 15 assessment and therapy sessions. The order is generally given to the patient, who hands it in to the psychological psychotherapist of their choice. At the patient's request, it can also be sent directly to the psychological psychotherapist carrying out the treatment.

Note: The doctor issuing the order does not necessarily have to have seen the patient in person. He can also issue the order on the basis of a telephone call or on the basis of files.

The prescribing doctor can issue two prescriptions for a total of 15 sessions each. Further sessions (after these 30 sessions) require a cost approval from the health insurance company.

Appointments must be cancelled at least 24 hours before the start of the appointment (on working days), but preferably as early as possible. If you do not cancel an appointment in time, it will be charged to you privately.