Is online psychotherapy effective?

Yes. Scientific literature shows that psychotherapy via videoconference yields results comparable to in-person therapy for disorders such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD, when conducted by qualified professionals using evidence-based protocols.

What problems is it indicated for?

It is a suitable option for anxiety, depression, stress, sleep disorders, grief, phobias, obsessions/compulsions, trauma, and relationship difficulties, among other common conditions. The final decision is always made after a clinical evaluation.

Does it work with teenagers and young adults?

In many cases, yes. There are good results with approaches such as CBT and ACT, adjusting the framework to the age and ensuring the involvement of legal guardians when applicable.

Who are the professionals and what should I confirm?

In Portugal, clinical practice is reserved for professionals licensed by the Portuguese Order of Psychologists (OPP). Always check the license number and specific training relevant to your therapeutic goal.

Can a psychologist prescribe medication?

No. Prescribing medication is a medical act, typically within the specialty of Psychiatry. The psychologist focuses on psychological assessment and intervention, and may coordinate with your doctor, with your consent.

Are the sessions confidential? How is my data protected?

Professional confidentiality is mandatory, and the intervention respects the OPP Code of Ethics and the GDPR. We use platforms with encryption and appropriate technical and organizational measures. Access to information is restricted and based on the principle of necessity.

Are video calls safe?

We use tools with encryption in transit and robust security policies. We do not record sessions by default. If recording is clinically indicated and agreed upon, explicit authorization will be requested and encryption at rest will be used.

What happens in a crisis situation or when there is immediate risk?

Online psychotherapy is not a substitute for emergency services. In case of immediate risk, call 112. For triage and health advice, contact the SNS 24 Line: 808 24 24 24. We maintain internal assessment and referral protocols in high-risk situations.

How does the first session go?

We explore objectives, relevant history, and current context, define a treatment plan, and, when pertinent, apply standardized questionnaires (e.g., PHQ-9 and GAD-7) to monitor progress.

How long and how often are the sessions?

The most common format is 45–60 minutes, weekly or bi-weekly. The plan is adjusted to your clinical progress and availability.

How many sessions will I need?

It depends on the goals, the intensity of the symptoms, and adherence. In mild to moderate cases, structured programs can produce improvements in a few weeks. More complex cases require a longer-term approach.

How do I choose the right psychologist for me?

Beyond credentials, the quality of the therapeutic alliance (feeling understood and safe) is one of the main predictors of success. 

Video, phone, or chat: is there a difference in the results?

Video conferencing more closely resembles face-to-face interaction and is the modality with the best overall support. Telephone and chat can be useful in specific contexts, but the evidence is more heterogeneous.

Do they treat minors? What forms of consent are required?

The general rule in Portugal is that minors need the consent of their legal representatives. From the age of 16, consent from the minor themselves may be considered, depending on their maturity and clinical context.

How should I prepare for the online session?

Choose a private and quiet location, use headphones, test your internet connection and camera, close other applications, and have your charger nearby. Plan ahead (phone) for any technical issues.

Are there situations where physical presence is preferable?

Yes. In cases of acute risk of self-harm or harm to others, unstable psychoses, intoxication, or when privacy cannot be guaranteed, in-person assessment and local referral are recommended.

Do I receive an invoice/receipt for tax purposes? Is VAT included in the service?

Psychology consultations with professionals holding an OPP (Order of Portuguese Psychologists) license are generally exempt from VAT under Article 9 of the VAT Code. Healthcare expenses can be reported to e-Fatura for deduction in IRS (Income Tax), according to the rules in force.

Can I receive treatment from abroad?

In most cases, yes. However, the rules of the country where you are located may apply. Check your eligibility and jurisdiction before starting.

How do I book, reschedule, or cancel an appointment?

You can manage everything online on the online appointment booking page. There is a cancellation policy with minimum notice to ensure good schedule management.

What payment methods are accepted?

We offer MB Way, Multibanco, and card payments, processed by certified partners. Payment is secure and confirmation is automatic.