About neuropsychologists
Neuropsychologists assess and rehabilitate memory, attention, language and other cognitive functions after brain injury, stroke or in neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental conditions.
Getting mental health care in Germany
Public health system · Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV)
Psychotherapy by licensed psychotherapists and psychiatric care are covered by statutory health insurance without a GP referral, starting with a psychotherapeutic consultation (Sprechstunde). Appointments can be booked via the 116117 appointment service; waiting times for ongoing therapy are often long. More information
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Landespsychotherapeutenkammern (umbrella body: Bundespsychotherapeutenkammer). Psychotherapist is a protected title requiring a state licence (Approbation); the title psychologist alone does not allow healthcare practice. Statutory-insurance therapists can be found in the 116117 doctor search. Search the official register
- Landesärztekammern (state medical chambers). Psychiatrists are licensed physicians with a specialist qualification registered with their state medical chamber. Search the official register
Typical private fees
- Session with a psychologist
- €100 – €153
Private fee for a 50-minute behavioural therapy session under the official fee schedule (GOÄ 870) at the 2.3 to 3.5 multiplier, 2021 billing table. Sources
Insurance and coverage
Statutory insurance covers approved psychotherapy methods by licensed psychotherapists; private insurance coverage depends on the tariff.
Urgent help in Germany
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 112 · Emergencias
- 0800 111 0 111 · TelefonSeelsorge
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: api.bptk.de, 116117.de
What does a neuropsychologist do?
A neuropsychologist studies how the brain relates to thinking and behaviour. Day to day they carry out detailed assessments of memory, attention, language, planning and other cognitive functions using standardised tests, write reports, and design rehabilitation or stimulation programmes. They work with people after a stroke or brain injury, with neurodegenerative or neurodevelopmental conditions, and with their families and medical teams.
When to see a neuropsychologist
A neuropsychologist can help when there are noticeable changes in memory, concentration, language or behaviour, after a head injury or stroke, with concerns about cognitive decline, or to clarify learning or attention difficulties. They are also useful to plan rehabilitation and adapt daily life. If the concern is mainly emotional, a psychologist may fit better; medical causes need a neurologist.
How is it different from other professionals?
A neurologist is a doctor who diagnoses and treats diseases of the nervous system and can prescribe medication and order scans. A neuropsychologist measures how those conditions affect thinking and behaviour and works on rehabilitation, without prescribing. A general psychologist focuses more on emotions and behaviour than on detailed cognitive testing. An occupational therapist helps adapt everyday activities and environments after cognitive changes.
What happens in the first session
The first meeting usually gathers information about the concern, medical history, education, daily functioning and any changes noticed by relatives. Testing may start then or in later sessions. Bring medical reports, scan results, a list of medication, school reports if relevant and, if possible, a family member who knows you well. Ask what the assessment involves and what the report will include.
How long does the process take?
A full neuropsychological assessment often takes several hours, sometimes split over more than one appointment, plus time to score tests and prepare a report. Rehabilitation or cognitive stimulation is usually delivered in regular sessions over weeks or months, depending on the cause, the goals and how the person responds. Progress is typically reviewed and the programme adjusted along the way.
Online or in person?
Some parts of neuropsychology work online, such as initial interviews, feedback sessions, family guidance and certain rehabilitation exercises. However, many standardised tests are designed for face-to-face administration, so formal assessments are usually better in person. Online work may be harder for people with significant attention, hearing, vision or technology difficulties, unless a relative can help with the setup.
How to check their qualifications
A neuropsychologist is usually a psychologist with postgraduate specialisation in neuropsychology, so check first that they are registered as a psychologist with the licensing body of their country. Then ask about their specific neuropsychology training, clinical experience with your type of condition, the tests they use and whether they work with hospitals, rehabilitation centres or multidisciplinary teams.
What affects the price?
Costs differ between a one-off assessment with a written report and ongoing rehabilitation sessions. The number of tests, hours involved, the complexity of the case, the professional’s experience, the city and whether reports are needed for legal or administrative purposes all affect price. Ask for an estimate before starting and whether health insurance or public services cover part of it.
How to choose
When choosing, check the licence and training, the approach they use and whether they have experience with what you need. Consider practical aspects too: language, price, location or online sessions and availability. The relationship with the professional matters a great deal; if after a few sessions it does not feel right, it is fine to change.
Frequently asked questions
Does the public health system in Germany cover psychological care?
Psychotherapy by licensed psychotherapists and psychiatric care are covered by statutory health insurance without a GP referral, starting with a psychotherapeutic consultation (Sprechstunde). Appointments can be booked via the 116117 appointment service; waiting times for ongoing therapy are often long.
How do I check that a neuropsychologist is licensed in Germany?
Landespsychotherapeutenkammern (umbrella body: Bundespsychotherapeutenkammer): Psychotherapist is a protected title requiring a state licence (Approbation); the title psychologist alone does not allow healthcare practice. Statutory-insurance therapists can be found in the 116117 doctor search.
How much does a session with a psychologist cost in Germany?
Usually between €100 and €153 per individual session in private practice. Private fee for a 50-minute behavioural therapy session under the official fee schedule (GOÄ 870) at the 2.3 to 3.5 multiplier, 2021 billing table.