Healthcare

How to get psychological help in Luxembourg

In this article we will look at mental health services in Luxembourg, different types of mental health professionals, the process of accessing mental health services, reimbursement, children's mental health, crisis lines.

Table of content

Mental health services in Luxembourg are regulated by the Ministry of Health and are provided by both public and private health care providers. The country has many mental health services available to its population, including community mental health centers, psychiatric hospitals, and private therapists. These services are accessible to both residents and non-residents of Luxembourg, although non-residents may face higher fees.

If you feel that you need help with your mental health, you will need to contact your therapist (general practitioner) first. If necessary, he or she will refer you to specialized treatment. Health insurance in Luxembourg will be required to get reimbursed for the costs of the treatment, including therapy sessions, medicaments, and other procedures, that your doctors will prescribe to you.

You can also access services and treatment directly, without a referral from your GP, but then you will have to find a professional on your own and cover the costly bills too.

What doctors help with mental health

There are different types of specialists when it comes to mental health in Luxembourg. Overall they can be divided into these specializations:

Psychologist

Psychologists work with a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. They may provide psychological testing, assessment, and diagnosis, and offer individual or group therapy sessions to help clients develop coping skills and improve their mental health. They help with the development of healthy emotional reactions and can work with a variety of social dysfunctions daily.

Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists in Luxembourg are medical doctors who specialize in the treatment of mental illness. They may work with a range of conditions such as mood disorders, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. They can diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication to help manage symptoms. They may refer patients to psychotherapy as a supporting part of pharmacological treatment, or refer patients to other mental health professionals. It is possible to find English-speaking psychiatrists in Luxembourg as well.

Psychotherapist

Psychotherapists work with individuals, couples, and families to address a range of mental health concerns. They use a variety of approaches to help clients develop coping skills, improve communication, and manage their emotions. They may work with clients who have experienced trauma, have relationship problems, or are dealing with anxiety and depression. They, however, will usually not prescribe you medication but can refer you to psychiatrists.

A lot of specialists you will find being on the edge or having both qualifications. This only widens their abilities to help, so you can choose a specialist according to their methods, approach, and various other criteria — from specific treatment experience and expertise to as basic as choosing your doctor by the preferred gender.

Mental health and health insurance

Luxembourg residents have the right to receive psychiatric care through public health insurance. This opportunity is available as soon as one registers at the Center Commun de la Sécurité Sociale (CCSS).

However, if you are not employed and cannot afford the insurance benefits, you can still access care as a legal resident through your local social security office. You need to fill out the application and submit it on-site or online. As a condition for receiving social welfare aid, you may be required to actively participate in the measures taken to support your future independence, including taking part in job training, education programs, counseling, or other types of support services.

With CNS a patient can be reimbursed for up to 147 sessions over ten years: one therapy treatment includes 12 sessions and can be prolonged 5 times. Most Luxembourgers still complement their public health insurance with a private insurance plan to have a bigger choice of professionals and escape some other difficulties.

EU citizens

If you are an EU/EFTA citizen and are temporarily living in Luxembourg, you can access treatment through your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

The European Health Insurance Card is a free card issued by your national health insurance provider that gives you access to medically necessary, state-provided healthcare in any of the 27 EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, or the United Kingdom. It does not serve as an alternative to travel insurance, does not cover private healthcare, and does not guarantee free services.

If you move to another country permanently, you should register with the S1 form instead of using the EHIC. This concerns cross-border workers, posted employees, pensioners, and government servants.

Psychologists in Luxembourg

This type of specialist does not treat serious diagnosed diseases, and they do not prescribe medicine. But psychologists can help you sort yourself out, and live in harmony with people and with the world, sometimes it's just what you need to enjoy your happy life in Luxembourg. Relocation (and many other things) can be stressful, so do not hesitate to ask for the help of a professional.

Types of psychologist in Luxembourg

There are various types, including clinical psychologists, counseling psychologists, and educational psychologists in Luxembourg. Clinical typically work with individuals who have more severe mental health issues, while counseling specialists may work with individuals experiencing more general life difficulties. Educational ones work with children and young people to provide psychological support and help with learning difficulties.

There are a variety of psychologists practicing in Luxembourg, both in the public and private sectors. They use various therapeutic techniques to help individuals overcome psychological challenges such as anxiety, depression, addiction, and trauma.

Accreditation as a psychologist in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

Psychologists must hold a master's degree in psychology from an accredited university and complete a supervised training period before they can obtain their license to practice. They are regulated by the Ministry of Health and must adhere to strict professional standards and ethical guidelines

What are the prices?

The cost of psychological services in Luxembourg can vary depending on the provider and the type of service required. Some services may be covered by health insurance, while others may require out-of-pocket payment.

The cost of the session in private practice is up to the psychologist (usually between 70 and 140 euros) and is not reimbursed by the National Health Service (CNS).
Some insurance companies reimburse a portion of the treatment costs, but you need to clarify this with your insurance provider.
The Office National de l’Enfance (ONE) can offer psychological support with partner psychologists for children and young people up to the age of 27.
In some public structures (absl, schools, etc.), counseling is free of charge.

Where to find a specialist?

To find a psychologist in Luxembourg, individuals can ask their general practitioner for a referral. It is important to note that there may be waiting lists for some services, particularly those provided by public mental health specialists. In addiction, to find a psychologist in Luxembourg, you can also use the directory of the Société Luxembourgeoise de Psychologie (SLP), which allows you to filter your search according to various criteria (location, languages, problems treated, etc.).

There are plenty of specialists, that can be also found online, and on Doctena. On this main medical website, you can use a system of filters, to choose the language, address, availability, and all other criteria when choosing a doctor.

Use the Luxembourg Psychological Society (SLP) directory by using the filter with the psychotherapy title.
There are plenty of specialists, that can be also found online, and on Doctena. Most of them are available for video calls and are reimbursed by CNS, but only in case, you have a prescription.
Use a referral from your general practitioner (GP).
You can look for the specialist yourself online.

English-speaking psychologists in Luxembourg

Whether you are a foreigner or a native speaker, you can find a mental health doctor that will speak your language in Luxembourg. It is important if you would like to do speaking or talk therapy: this is a good method to resolve some issues by discussing feelings, thoughts, and experiences. And of course, it is much more pleasant to speak in your language about what worries you.

There are plenty of specialists, that can be also found online, and on Doctena. Most of them are available for video calls and are reimbursed by CNS, but only in case, you have a prescription for visiting a psychologist or psychotherapist, which we will speak about further. It is possible to find English-speaking psychiatrists in Luxembourg as well, and psychotherapists too.

We have carefully collected just five English-speaking psychologists in Luxembourg with good rates, that are available for consultation in Luxembourg City.

Contact details

Name	Phone	Address	Other details
Dr. Raymonde Scheuren (Psychologist, Psychotherapist)	+352 621 888 321	31, Boulevard Prince Henri, L-1724 Luxembourg	Reimbursed by CNS. Behavioral and emotional approach
Glauco Trebbi (Psychologist, Psychotherapist)	+352 621 434 693	48 Rue Félix De Blochausen, 1243 Luxembourg	Reimbursed by CNS. Works with children. A cognitive-behavioral psychotherapeutic approach (CBT)
Françoise Duchamps-Hufenbecher (Psychologist)	+352 26 26 20 47	31 Boulevard Prince Henri, L-1724 Luxembourg	Reimbursed by CNS. Works with kids and families, and couples
Dr. Gilles Michaux (Psychologist, Psychotherapist)	+352 26 36 93 01	44 rue d'Anvers, L-1130 Luxembourg	Reimbursed by CNS. Specialized in psychosomatic disorders and psychotherapy. Works only with adults
Petra Buderus (Couple Therapy and Life Coaching)	+352 20 28 04 59	15 boulevard Royal, L-2449 Luxembourg	Not reimbursed by CNS. Works with adults. Short-term approach

Psychiatrists in Luxembourg

Psychiatrists and psychologists in Luxembourg, which we covered before, are both mental health professionals who provide support and treatment for mental health issues. However, there are some key differences between the two professions.

Key information about the doctor

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Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have completed medical school and a residency program in psychiatry. They are trained to diagnose and treat mental health disorders, as well as prescribe medication. In contrast, psychologists typically have a doctoral degree in psychology and have undergone extensive training in research, assessment, and psychotherapy.

One major difference is in their treatment methods. Psychiatrists often focus on medication management as a key treatment approach for mental health issues, although they may also provide psychotherapy. Psychologists, on the other hand, primarily provide talking therapy and other non-medical interventions and generally do not prescribe medication.

They can diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including more severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, and eating and personality disorders. As medical doctors in Luxebmourg, psychiatrists are trained to understand the biological basis of mental illness and often use this knowledge to inform their treatment approaches. Psychologists, while they may have some knowledge of biological factors related to mental health, typically focus more on psychological and social factors that contribute to mental health.

What are the prices

Where to find a specialist

Psychotherapists in Luxembourg

The terms "psychologist" and "psychotherapist" are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Both provide talkative psychotherapy of a kind, but their treatment methods may differ, as well as the disorders they cover. Psychologists typically use medical or evidence-based approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, or hypnosis and meditations.

Key information about the doctor

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Psychotherapists are based on research in human psychology and, for example, various schools of psychoanalysis. Psychoanalysis is a therapeutic approach that aims to explore unconscious patterns that may be contributing to an individual's mental health concerns. It was developed by Sigmund Freud in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Another big name in this field is Carl Gustav Jung, the father of modern analysis, who went in some ways against Freud.

In psychoanalysis, the therapist and client work together to explore the insight into underlying unconscious patterns. The therapist may use a variety of techniques, such as free association (where the client speaks freely about whatever comes to mind), dream analysis (where the therapist helps the client interpret the meaning of their dreams), and transference (where the client projects their emotions and experiences onto the therapist). The goal is to help the client gain greater insight into their unresolved conflicts or issues. This can involve a long-term commitment to therapy.

What are the prices

Where to find a specialist

Help for children and youth in Luxembourg

In case you want to find psychological help for kids (or you look for guidance as a minor), you can start by contacting a pediatrician or general practitioner. They may be able to refer you to a psychologist who specializes in working with children and adolescents.

Children are provided with free medical care in Luxembourg via their parent's or guardians' health insurance. The mental health of children in Luxembourg is supervised when they get about two years of age and throughout the school years. It is important to pay attention to emotional and social behavior to track the right development.

You can also search for psychologists who specialize in working with children and adolescents through online directories such as the Annuaire Santé (Division of School Medicine and Child and Youth Health) on the website of the Ministry of Health or Psylux, the Luxembourgish psychologists' association and institute website.

In case you have any concerns about your child's mental health and development, you can contact your therapist or pediatrician, as well as a child psychologist, or the school health team members to give you instructions and help find the right specialists.

For the smallest ones

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If you got a diagnosis of mental health state already, you can get help through the Early Rehabilitation Service (Hëllef fir de Puppelchen) in Luxembourg, which supports children up to the age of 4 years old. They have 6 different centers in the Grand Duchy and provide physiotherapy, speech and occupational therapy, and other helpful procedures for young kids.

Child psychotherapy and mental help procedures costs are fully covered by state health insurance reimbursement of CNS, in case the parent or guardian is insured in the country.

Other organizations that offer psychological support:

National Office of Children's Affairs (Office National de l’Enfance — ONE ). Offers psychosocial support for children and youth under the age of 27.
The Socio-Medical League (Ligue Médico-Sociale). Manages health and social support services among 12 socio-medical centers across the country.
Psychosocial and School Support Center (Center Psycho-social et d’Accompagnement Scolaires — CEPAS) — a public sector authority. Provides support to individual families and through school.
Ambulatory service Elizabeth Group (SIPO) — their services include support and counseling for children, youth, and families with mental health issues, including people with disabilities.

Emergency and Crisis Lines

The emergency telephone number in Luxembourg is 112. Crisis and emergency lines for mental help in Luxembourg provide a vital service to individuals who may need support.

One of the main reasons people use crisis lines is to seek support for feelings of overwhelm, anxiety and panic attacks, or depressive episodes. These feelings can be overwhelming and may make it difficult for individuals to cope with their day-to-day lives. Professionals also help people who have experienced a traumatic event, such as an accident or natural disaster, domestic violence, or abuse.

Crisis lines can also be used by individuals who are experiencing suicidal thoughts or are concerned about someone who may be suicidal. In these situations, it is important to seek help immediately. Crisis line operators are trained to handle these situations.

It is important to note that while crisis lines can provide immediate support and assistance, they are not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. When you are in need of ongoing support — seek the services of a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. But for unbearable moments, don't hesitate to call.

Services are provided anonymously, and can be done in English (sometimes), French, German, and Luxembourgish. Though they don't work 24/7, like an emergency, their schedule is created to assist special needs.

You can also receive emergency care at Luxembourg hospitals or visit one of the on-call medical centers (Maisons Médicales).

Helplines contacts in Luxembourg

The most important phones and sites are listed here

SOS Distress

A crisis line for people who need immediate help or support. It also is open for suicidal issues. They speak in 3 official languages of Luxembourg and also English.

Phone: 45 45 45. Working hours: 11 to 23, and until 03:00 on Fridays and weekends. English line is available every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday from 11:00-23:00.

Kanner-Jugendtelefon

A crisis line for children and youth,giving help to kids in various situations, such as counseling and pieces of advice. However, parents can call too. They also have a chat and mail service.

Phone: 116 111. Working hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday – 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday – 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday – 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Domestic Violence Hotline

A special helpline for the victims (men, women, kids) of domestic abuse, offering support and help if needed. It aims to help with different kinds of domestic abuse and the first signs of the possibility of it happening. As well as help victims of human trafficking.Phone: 2060 1060. Working hours: 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. every day.

More helplines are available in the directory.

Useful resources for mental health