Good to know - FAQ
What you want to know before contacting me
How can I book an appointment?
The easiest way is directly via the booking page on my website. You are also welcome to call on 0670 357 95 96. I will get back to you promptly.
What is the difference between psychotherapy, coaching, and counselling?
Psychotherapy goes deeper and treats psychological stress or disorders. Coaching is more solution- and future-oriented, usually focused on a specific question. Counselling provides impulses and orientation. In my work, all three approaches come together – depending on the concern.
Psychotherapist, Psychiatrist, and Psychologist – what are the differences?
Psychotherapists are specially trained to support people with psychological problems through conversation and targeted interventions. Training takes several years. Psychotherapists are authorised to work independently and treat clinically significant mental disorders.
How does therapy work?
It begins with an initial consultation. Together we clarify goals, expectations, and the framework. We arrange regular sessions – usually weekly or fortnightly. A session lasts 50 minutes. At the end we reflect on the journey together and consolidate what has been achieved.
What methods do you use in psychotherapy?
I work using cognitive behavioural approaches, supplemented by mindfulness-based and emotion-oriented methods such as ACT, MBSR, and schema therapy. Methodologically grounded, individually tailored work is important to me.
What happens in a first session?
We take 50 minutes to discuss your concern calmly. You get to know my working style, and we clarify together whether and how a collaboration would suit you.
How confidential are the sessions?
Everything discussed in therapy is subject to the legally regulated duty of confidentiality (§15 Psychotherapy Act).
How long does a psychotherapy session last?
A session normally lasts 50 minutes. Longer sessions can be arranged for couples or group therapy.
How often do sessions take place?
At the beginning, a weekly or fortnightly rhythm is helpful. Later, the intervals can be adjusted flexibly.
Can I also attend sessions online?
Yes. Sessions can also take place online if you wish – via a secure, GDPR-compliant connection. Its effectiveness is well documented by studies.
What is the cost of psychotherapy?
The fee is €100 per session (50 minutes). For couple or group settings, or for coaching, by arrangement.
Are you queer-friendly? Do you work with LGBTIQ+ clients?
Yes. People of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and ways of life are warmly welcome in my practice. I work in a respectful, open, and discrimination-sensitive way.
What happens if I need to cancel an appointment?
Cancellations are free of charge up to 48 hours before the agreed appointment. After this, the session will be invoiced.
Does health insurance cover the costs?
At present, reimbursement by the Austrian statutory health insurance is not possible. Private health insurance frequently covers part of the costs. Reimbursement by German health insurance funds is possible.
What if I cannot afford therapy?
I offer a number of therapy places at reduced rates. If your current situation does not allow for therapy, please enquire.
How does billing work?
After each session you will receive an invoice which you can pay by bank transfer. If you prefer, invoices can also be issued monthly.
Do you also work with couples?
Yes. I work with couples in different life phases and constellations. In relationship therapy, the aim is to promote communication, closeness, and understanding. When
Can I come with professional topics as well as personal ones?
Yes. Many of my clients come with professional pressures or questions of decision-making. I work at the interface of psychotherapy and coaching.
Ich arbeite an der Schnittstelle von Psychotherapie und Coaching – das heißt: wir betrachten sowohl emotionale als auch strukturelle Ebenen und entwickeln tragfähige Wege, um Beruf und Leben in Einklang zu bringen.
Why psychotherapy with a human – and not with an AI such as ChatGPT?
In short: AI sorts your thoughts. People change your life. AI can inform, sort, explain exercises. Therapy can establish relationship, recognise emotional patterns, accompany you through crises, and create lasting change.
What is the biggest difference between AI and psychotherapy?
The underlying view of human beings.
Psychotherapy assumes that change arises through:
Relationship
Resonance
Secure attachment experiences
Awareness
Emotional integration
Inner permission
AI assumes that change arises through:
Pattern recognition
Information processing
One is human.
The other is a tool.
Can I combine AI and psychotherapy?
Absolutely.
Many of my clients use ChatGPT or similar chatbots:
- to reflect between sessions,
- to sort their thoughts,
- to prepare a topic,
- for exercises we select together.
I’m happy to support this—as a supplement, not a replacement.
This way, AI remains what it is: a helpful tool.
And therapy remains what it needs to be: a real human by your side.
Why should I choose psychotherapy with Max Walzl?
17 years of experience in leadership and coaching • Modern CBT combined with ACT, a systemic stance, and emotion-focusing • Humour and groundedness • Clear structure, flexible and bespoke • Professional standards, supervision, continuous professional development.