Many people seek therapy because they long for a greater sense of connection with themselves and others. Often, this longing first shows itself where something hurts: relationships keep feeling difficult, inner tension persists, anxiety takes up more and more space in daily life, we blame ourselves, doubt ourselves, or feel as though we have lost touch with who we are.
These experiences are not caused by a lack of willpower or personal weakness, but by coping strategies that were once helpful in adapting to painful early relationships.
My trauma-informed approach focuses on gently understanding these patterns and getting in touch with the needs and longings that lie beneath them. From there, new possibilities for connection, agency and aliveness can emerge.
My therapeutic approach
My therapeutic work is informed by the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM®), a trauma-sensitive approach for people living with developmental, attachment and relational trauma – also known as complex trauma.
Complex trauma often arises when children do not experience sufficient safety, attunement or emotional support over a prolonged period. To cope with these experiences, children often develop survival strategies – for example, by suppressing feelings and needs or withdrawing from themselves to make the unbearable bearable. At the time, these strategies were protective and helpful. Today, however, they often stand in our way – in our relationships, self-worth or the connection with ourselves.
My NARM®-informed work focuses on becoming aware of these patterns – without judgement and without pressure. By approaching our survival strategies with curiosity, we gradually gain more freedom to make different choices. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe space in which new, corrective experiences become possible, because relational trauma heals in relationship. That is why we don't just talk about the past. We explore what is coming up in the here and now – in your experience, your body, your emotions and in our therapeutic relationship.
It is particularly important to me to be present with warmth, curiosity and respect. My work is therefore queer-affirming and culturally sensitive, and takes into account the social and structural conditions in which we live.
About Me
I have always been fascinated by how people become who they are – and how change becomes possible. In literature, I found these questions explored through stories; in philosophy, I sought a deeper understanding of what it means to be human. After studying both subjects, I turned to writing, which remains a central part of my life to this day. Since 2024, my novels have been published by Berlin Verlag. → my author's website
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I found myself increasingly drawn to therapeutic work. In 2023, I completed training in outpatient end-of-life care. This was followed by resource-oriented psychotherapy training with Vera Dreher in Berlin, qualification as a licensed alternative practitioner for psychotherapy (Heilpraktiker), and the NARM® Basic Training. What connects all of these experiences is my interest in meeting people with respect for their dignity and their capacity for change. I continue to deepen my work through regular supervision and ongoing professional training.
I identify as non-binary and prefer to be addressed without pronouns. A queer-affirmative and anti-discriminatory approach is a natural part of my therapeutic work and an expression of my values.
Setting and Conditions
I offer therapeutic support
- in German and English
- in person and online
- in Berlin-Neukölln (near Leinestraße U-Bahn station + Hermannstraße S-Bahn station)
- Regular rate: €90 per 60 min.
- Two sliding-scale places: €60 per 60 min. (for people on lower income)
- Weekend appointments are available by arrangement
As a Heilpraktiker*in, I do not bill statutory health insurance providers. This means that therapy can usually begin without a waiting period. The frequency and duration of therapy are tailored to your individual needs. In addition, no diagnosis is shared with your health insurance provider.
Please note: Alongside my therapeutic practice, I also work as an author. From time to time, I spend periods in artist residencies outside Berlin. During these times, appointments are offered exclusively online.
Contact
If you have any questions or would like to arrange an initial, non-binding consultation, I would be happy to hear from you. Please feel free to contact me by email at:
res.sigusch@posteo.de
Cancellation policy: If you need to cancel a scheduled session, please let me know by email at least 48 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 48 hours before the appointment will be charged at the agreed session fee.