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Cognitive behavioural therapy (TCC)
Understand, try, move forward
- Concrete goals
- Exercises between sessions
Available places today by location.
Today's psychotherapists, locations and waiting times are displayed here. See the directory
TCC is a structured psychotherapy that works on the links between thoughts, emotions and behaviours. It sets concrete goals with you and relies on exercises to practice between sessions. At Almaval, it is offered by psychologist-psychotherapists and psychiatrists, at our sites in French-speaking Switzerland and via video call.
What is cognitive and behavioural therapy?
Cognitive behavioural therapy, or cognitive-behavioural therapy (TCC), is based on a simple observation: the way we interpret a situation influences how we feel and what we do. When certain thoughts or behaviours maintain distress, such as avoidance in anxiety or withdrawal in depression, therapy helps to identify them, test them, and experiment with other ways of reacting.
It focuses primarily on the present and current difficulties, without ignoring the person’s history. The work is collaborative: the therapist proposes a method, you bring your knowledge of your situation, and the goals are decided together.
For what difficulties?
TCC has been the subject of numerous clinical studies. It is commonly offered for:
- Anxiety disordersgeneralised anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, social anxiety
- Depression and mood disordersalongside medical monitoring if necessary
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic stress
- Eating disorders and sleep disorders
- Addictions and certain risky behaviours
- Stress, burnout, and emotional regulation
It is less suitable if you are primarily looking for a space to freely explore your history: other approaches, such as the psychodynamic therapy or person-centred approach, may then be more suitable for you. The first appointment is specifically intended to discuss this.
How does TCC take place at Almaval?
The initial consultation
You take stock with the therapist on what brings you, your situation, and your expectations. If TCC seems suitable, you define concrete and measurable goals together.
The sessions
Sessions generally last between 45 and 60 minutes, most often on a weekly basis at first. Depending on your needs, they combine tools such as cognitive restructuring, progressive exposure, behavioural activation, relaxation or mindfulness.
Work between sessions
Small exercises (noting thoughts, testing a behavior, step-by-step exposure) help apply what is worked on during sessions to daily life.
The review
Progress is reviewed regularly with you. The duration depends on the difficulty addressed and your goals: some treatment courses last a few months, others longer.
Our TCC therapists
Psychologist-psychotherapists and psychiatrists at Almaval who practise TCC. Their locations, languages, and acceptance of new patients are updated continuously.
Where to consult?
Consultations take place in our centres and, for some therapists, via video conference.
See the CBT therapists by location:
Related approaches: systemic therapy, psychodynamic therapy, person-centred approach, psychology and psychotherapy, psychiatry.
Reimbursement
With a psychiatrist
Psychotherapy conducted by a psychiatrist is covered by the mandatory healthcare insurance (LAMal), under the usual deductible and co-payment conditions.
With a psychologist-psychotherapist
Psychotherapy conducted by a psychologist-psychotherapist is reimbursed by basic insurance upon medical prescription (prescription model, in effect since 1st July 2022).
To find out how to obtain a prescription, see Finding the right help or ask the question when making your request.
Frequently asked questions
How many sessions are needed in TCC?
This depends on the difficulty being treated and the goals set together. Some treatments last a few months, others longer. Progress is reviewed regularly with the therapist.
Is TCC covered by basic insurance?
Yes, under the LAMal: directly when therapy is conducted by a psychiatrist, and on medical prescription when conducted by a psychologist-psychotherapist. The deductible and co-payment apply.
What is the difference between a TCC psychologist and a TCC psychiatrist?
Both can conduct TCC. The psychiatrist is a medical doctor: they can also make a medical diagnosis and prescribe medication if necessary.
Can you do TCC via video?
Yes, some Almaval therapists offer online sessions. The initial consultation allows you to verify whether this format suits you.
In which languages?
Depending on the psychotherapist, sessions can be held in French, English, and other languages. The languages spoken by each psychotherapist are listed on their profile.
How to request an appointment?
Fill in the appointment request form: you can choose an available therapist or ask to be guided by our secretariat.
Physician or healthcare professional
Refer a patient
To refer a patient for TCC, the dedicated page brings together the relevant documents, the prescription, and timeframes.
In case of emergency or crisis, consult the page Crisis Reception Service or call 144.
