How can i get help?

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Sometimes it feels as if the world has come to a standstill, while you yourself barely have the strength to carry on.
The thought, “I need help now,” can be difficult - and at the same time, it is one of the bravest steps you can take. Have faith, you are already further along than you think.
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But how does getting help work? Where do I go, and who covers the costs? These are important questions that can also be frightening or overwhelming. But that's exactly what this website is for. Here you will find an overview of how to get professional support in Switzerland and how the costs work. 

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1. First step: Reach out to someone

Your family doctor (Hausarzt / Hausärztin)
This is often the easiest starting point. You share what’s going on, and together you decide on the next steps.
Your doctor can give you a prescription for psychotherapy – this is important if you want your health insurance to cover the costs (minus your deductible and co-payment).

 

Contacting a therapist directly
If you already have someone in mind or want to search yourself, you can use these platforms:

If you want insurance coverage, you will still need a doctor’s prescription – which can also be arranged after you’ve found a therapist.​

• psy.ch – Find therapists

• FSP therapist search

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Costs & health insurance
Basic insurance covers the therapy if prescribed by a doctor.

Covered sessions include those with:

• Specialists in psychiatry and psychotherapy.

• Psychological psychotherapists with a license to practice.

 

The normal deductible + co-payment of your health insurance applies.

Without a doctor's prescription, sessions must be paid for privately.

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2. If it’s urgent – don’t wait

If you feel you might harm yourself or your situation is getting worse fast:

Call 143 “The Helping Hand” (24/7)

Contact your cantonal psychiatric emergency service

Or go directly to a hospital emergency department

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💙 Asking for help is not a weakness – it can save your life.
 

3. How the therapy process works

1. Make contact – Call or email to book an appointment. Get a prescription from your doctor if needed.

2. First session – Usually 50–60 minutes. You talk about what’s been going on, what you hope for, and whether you feel comfortable with the therapist.

3. Therapy sessions – Typically once a week. The length of therapy depends on your needs – it might be weeks, months, or longer.

4. Regular check-ins – You and your therapist review your progress and adapt the approach as needed.

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4. Helpful tips

Try more than one therapist – It’s okay to switch if it doesn’t feel right.

Join multiple waiting lists – Waiting times can be weeks or months, especially in cities.

Bring someone along – If the first appointment feels too big, take a trusted person with you.

Save crisis numbers – So you don’t have to search in an emergency.​

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✨ Remember: Asking for help is not giving up – it’s taking care of yourself. And sometimes, it’s the first step back into the light.