Psychotherapy and psychoanalysis in Montpellier for adults, couples, teenagers and children
Gorana Arnaud
Psychotherapist / Psychoanalyst
Psychotherapy and psychoanalysis in Montpellier for adults, couples, teenagers and children
Choosing a therapist
How to choose a good "shrink"? And what is the difference between all these names?
The choice of therapist is something that is best done by feeling. The most important element of therapeutic success is that you feel that you can trust your counsellor, that you can share your innermost hopes and fears without feeling judged. This feeling is only palpable at the first meeting, therefore take the time to find the therapist who suits you the most.
Psychotherapist
Since 2010, the title of psychotherapist is regulated by French law, protect patients from self-proclaimed therapists. A Master 2, a 1-year post graduate course and an internship of a minimum of five months in a public health institution, are required to practice under the title of “psychotherapist”. A psychotherapist is often trained in other kinds of therapy, such as EMDR, psychoanalysis, family systems therapy, CBT, and so on, and adapts these various techniques to each individual patient. A good psychotherapist is very flexible when it comes to the form and the duration of therapy.
Psychoanalyst
The title of psychoanalyst is not protected by French law: this means that anyone and everyone can call themselves a “psychoanalyst”. Often, they will have completed a master’s degree, have undergone their own analysis and be in supervision (this is one of the requirements of becoming an analyst). Other times, unfortunately, none of the above will apply. Therefore, when going to see a psychoanalyst, do not hesitate to ask about their credentials, training and experience. A good analyst will be more than happy to answer any concerns you might have.
Psychologist
The psychologist has a master’s degree in psychology (sports, clinical, developmental, or other), and is free to choose their theoretical orientation or the therapies they specialise in. However, they are under no obligation to have undergone their own therapy and also are not bound to be under any kind of supervision. Just like psychoanalysts and psychotherapists, their sessions are not reimbursed by the French health insurance, unless they work in a public institution, for example a hospital.
Psychiatrist
The psychiatrist is above all a medical doctor. He studied medicine, and thus has the right to prescribe medication. In France, consultations with the psychiatrist are often very brief (lasting for about ten, fifteen minutes) and are reimbursed by Social Security.
The type of pathology and or symptoms treated by the psychiatrist and the psychotherapist are usually different, and so we often refer patients to each other.