Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can’t afford full therapy fees?
We understand that difficult situations can make financial concerns overwhelming, especially when support is most needed. We believe everyone deserves access to therapy, and we may be able to adjust the cost to accommodate your needs. Please contact us to discuss how we can support you during this time.
Are there any symptoms or conditions you do not treat?
Acute suicidality
Severe addiction
Severe psychosis
Severe eating disorders with BMI < 17
Severe aggression
Severe neurological disorders: Alzheimer disease and other dementia, Parkinson’s disease, cerebrovascular diseases including stroke, migraine and other headache disorders, multiple sclerosis, neuroinfections, brain tumors, traumatic disorders of the nervous system due to head trauma, and neurological disorders.
How do I make an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by phone or email HERE
Do I need a referral to start therapy?
You do not need a referral to start therapy. However, if you want to apply for insurance coverage, you need a referral from your family doctor with our information.
Mental Hygiene Institute is a private and independent practice and does not have contracts with health insurances. It is your own responsibility to cover the costs of your sessions. If you have international health insurance, it is possible that you may be eligible for reimbursement. Please check this directly with your insurance and provide them with the following information:
Psychologist NIP (NL) reg. no. 246495
AGB Code Practice : 94068574
AGB Code Caregiver: 94117311
KvK: 86572008
Is there a waiting list?
Each of our therapists manages their own waiting list, which they will discuss with you during the initial call. We encourage you to contact us, and we’ll do our best to find a convenient time for you to begin therapy.
What is the duration and frequency of the sessions?
A standard session with us lasts 50 minutes. However, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to the frequency of your sessions. Your therapist and you will agree on what works best for your situation and needs and adjust when necessary.
What can I expect from starting therapy with you?
Here’s a clear outline of the therapy process:
1. Pre-intake: During the 20-minute pre-intake, your therapist will assess how they can best help you and whether you’re a good fit for each other.
Clinical Questionnaire: After the pre-intake, you’ll receive a questionnaire to assess your symptoms clinically.
2. Initial Intake: In this session, your therapist will gather a detailed history of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life.
3. Treatment Plan and Goals: Together, you’ll discuss and set treatment goals, agreeing on the treatment plan that aligns with your needs and expectations.
4. Start Therapy: Once the treatment plan is signed, you’ll begin your therapy sessions.
5. Every 3 months, we evaluate your treatment goals to track progress, adjust or add new goals if needed, and determine whether further diagnostic evaluations are necessary based on your progress.
How can I reschedule or cancel my appointment?
You can reschedule or cancel your appointment for free as long as you provide at least 24 hours’ notice before the scheduled day and time. If you cancel less than 24 hours in advance or miss your appointment, you will be charged a no-show fee of €70, which is not covered by insurance.
Is my information confidential?
Yes, your information is confidential. We strictly abide by the ethics code of the Dutch Institute for Psychologists (NIP) which ensures confidentiality. There are, however, specific situations in which your information might be shared with others:
Supervision: As a standard practice, supervision is used to maintain a high level of care. We might discuss your case in supervision. This is always done without sharing any identifiable and personal information, so your identity is protected.
Safety concerns: If there are urgent concerns about your safety or the safety of others, we may breach confidentiality to address these issues and ensure safety. We will usually try to speak with you before this and not breach confidentiality unless it is a crisis situation.
You have given us informed and written permission to share your information with other parties.
What information is kept on my file?
The only information kept on your file is information your therapist considers essential for the quality of your treatment, continuity of care, and being able to contact you in emergency situations. This information is kept securely in protected online or physical forms, and cannot be shared with third parties unless you give written consent.