Seeking Psychological Support?

The terms psychologist, psychotherapist, and psychiatrist sound similar but refer to different realities. Understanding these differences helps you choose the right type of support—and anticipate what your insurance covers.

I work specifically as a licensed Psychologue FSP, within a framework of psychological counselling and support. This page explains what I offer, and the important distinctions to know.

Important Distinctions

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor. They can diagnose clinical conditions, prescribe medication, or sign certificates for sick leave. Their services are covered by compulsory health insurance (LAMal/OAI).

A psychotherapist has completed, after a degree in psychology or medicine, several years of federally recognised postgraduate specialisation training. With a medical referral, their sessions may also be reimbursed by LAMal.

A psychologist is a mental health specialist trained at university level. In Switzerland, this title is protected by federal law. Their scope of practice is broad: private practice, institutional settings, schools or companies—assessments, support, advice. Not all psychologists are psychotherapists. This is the framework in which I work, as a licensed Psychologue FSP.

Why Consult Me?

Reasons for consulting are as varied as the people who come. They often overlap:

• Something that’s been weighing on you for too long
• A period that’s thrown you more than expected
• Persistent fatigue, hard to explain
• A persistent sense of being out of sync—between who you are and what your environment expects of you
• Simply needing space to reflect with someone outside your usual circle

There is no right or wrong reason to take that first step. Your decision is valid, whatever it may be.

Note: Waiting times for funded psychotherapy placements can be long—several months, sometimes longer. Some people choose not to wait and consult me in the interim. Others simply opt for support outside the standard medical pathway, fully informed.

What I Offer

As a licensed Psychologue FSP, I offer psychological counselling and support consultations.

My approach:

• Time-limited accompaniment
• Goals defined together from our first meeting
• Regular check-ins to adjust the work as we go

This framework allows me to see clients quickly and work concretely, regardless of what brings you here. If your situation requires specialised care, I’ll refer you to professionals and institutions suited to your needs.

Format: I welcome you in person at my Lausanne office or online, according to your preference.

Fees & Insurance

These consultations are not covered by compulsory health insurance (LAMal).

Some supplementary insurance policies do provide partial reimbursement. I recommend checking directly with your insurer before scheduling your first appointment.

Ready to talk? Book an appointment or contact me by email to discuss your situation.