Welcome at the Family-Therapy-Center (FaTZ) in Neckargemuend
Welcome at the Family-Therapy-Center (FaTZ) in Neckargemuend
The systemic Family-Therapy-Center (FaTZ) offers an integrated therapy in a dayclinical setting for mentally ill children with their parents and/ or mentally ill parents and their children (0-18 years old) (especially when both sides are affected). The clinic offers an acute child- and adolescent psychiatric and psychotherapeutic therapy. The overall goal of our concept is to support the develeopment of a healthy and sustainable relationship between Parents and their children through our holisitc family therapy approach.
What is so special about our work at the FaTZ?
What is so special about our work at the FaTZ?
Up to today there are few to none clinics or institutions in general to be found in germany that offer an integrated therapy for parents and their children as a family. Psychiatric illnesses however affect the whole family and often lead- through difficulties in interaction between a parent and the child- to severe and chronic disease of children as well as symptom intensification and chronification of the parental illness based on their helplessness.
The FaTZ has been certified as a family-oriented facility by the DGSF (German Society for Systemic Therapy, Counseling and Family Therapy) since 2017.
How do we treat our patients?
How do we treat our patients?
The midpoint of our concept is bonding-beneficial work with parents and their child/ children. The treatment focuses on the so called „symptom carrier“ as well as the family system around. If there are more than one symptom carriers they will also be treated in the context of the family, if necessary our concepts also applies to working specifically with the symptom carriers indicidually.
Admission
Admission
Therapy takes place at our day clinic in Neckargemünd from Monday to Friday. At least one child is admitted with at least one parent at a time. Healthy siblings can also be admitted.
Private health insurance companies and assistance agencies cover the costs of treatment at the FaTZ. Statutory health insurance companies may cover the costs upon request, especially if day-care integrated parent-child treatment is recommended for psychiatric or psychotherapeutic reasons. We are happy to advise and support you in applying for health insurance coverage.
Our Philosophy
Parents and families are the experts when it comes to their own daily lives and personal goals. We offer our expertise in dealing with mental health disorders—both individually and within families—and bring extensive experience in relationships and development. We don’t provide a simple “recipe,” but instead work together with parents and children to develop tailored solutions and support them in testing and implementing these approaches. The strengths, abilities, and resources that parents and children need are usually already present and can be rediscovered, further developed, and expanded.
FaTZ offers a multimodal, part-time inpatient psychiatric treatment for children, adolescents, and adults within a family-psychiatric setting, provided by a multiprofessional team.
The core principles of the therapy are attachment support, promotion of mentalization, and a systemic perspective. In individual settings for parents or children, parent-child settings, group settings, or multi-family settings, a wide range of coordinated therapeutic components are offered based on psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and systemic therapy (all guideline-based treatments):
Attachment-oriented individual therapy, systemic family therapy, multi-family therapy, mindfulness and skills training, body therapy, occupational therapy, creative and movement therapy, video interaction therapy, yoga, guided play, parent coaching, and experiential learning interventions.
A central approach of the therapy is to strengthen parents, help them better access and use their resources, and—as a therapeutic team—provide them with a „secure base“ in line with attachment theory to support positive development and a healthy relationship with their child.
Mental health disorders affecting both parents and children are treated simultaneously in a multimodal, guideline-based manner. The therapy concept is characterized by a very high therapy density (approximately 30–55 therapy units per week for both children and parents, with one adult session equaling 25 minutes and one child session equaling 15 minutes).
Growing Together as a Family
Children and parents usually want everyone in the family to be well—even if it doesn’t always seem that way! The well-being and behaviors of family members often influence each other in complex, reciprocal ways—clear, simple „causes“ are rarely identifiable. Difficulties and conflicts can sometimes escalate into vicious cycles, but these can also be transformed into positive, reinforcing cycles.
For us, parents are not the problem—they are often the most important strength and resource for their children, and frequently the key to solutions. Likewise, children are not the problem either; they usually try to cooperate in their own way. Deep down, children often have a great deal of insight and understanding about their family, which can be incredibly helpful.
In the daily routine of our day clinic, parents are primarily responsible for their children. When difficulties or conflicts arise, we offer support and encourage trying out new approaches.
This form of “live coaching” in parent-child interactions is supplemented by reflective elements in various therapeutic modules. We work transparently and respectfully, sharing our hypotheses, assessments, questions, and ideas openly with parents and children.
What makes the FaTZ different
The therapeutic focus at FaTZ for a parent-child pair or family is threefold:
- the parent’s mental health disorder,
- the child’s mental health disorder, and
- the interaction, relationship, and attachment between them.
Children with mental health issues—especially when a diagnosed or subclinical attachment disorder is present—often have parents who are also struggling with mental health challenges.
Attachment-related trauma is frequently passed down across generations, possibly due in part to a temporarily or chronically impaired ability of parents to empathize with their child’s thoughts and feelings—known as impaired mentalization. Such constellations often lead to parental helplessness, where parents perceive themselves as ineffective in their role and feel overwhelmed. As a result, they can no longer serve as a stable, reliable reference point for their child, which in turn exacerbates the child’s behavioral difficulties. This mutual reinforcement contributes to the persistence of mental health disorders in both parent and child.
In conventional settings, the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions for infants and young children is often limited by the mental health challenges of the parents. However, attachment security can be improved through targeted therapeutic interventions—and secure attachment is one of the most important protective factors for healthy psychological development.
Get to Know Us
Get to Know Us
Our multiprofessional team—comprising physicians, psychologists, psychiatrists, psychotherapists, specialized therapists, educators, and nursing staff—works hand in hand. Through continuous coordination among all care providers and individualized process monitoring, we offer our patients a multimodal treatment plan tailored to their specific needs.
For all organizational matters related to your stay at the clinic, our case management team is here to support you.
Psychiatry and Psychotherapy
Our licensed psychotherapists understand that every family is unique and has its own individual needs. With a holistic approach, we offer psychotherapy in individual, couple, family, and group settings—aimed at strengthening relationships, improving communication, and finding solutions together. Our psychotherapeutic components are closely integrated with all other specialized therapeutic services.
Specialized Therapies, Nursing and Educational Services
Our team of specialized therapists complements and expands the psychotherapeutic services with offerings such as systemic therapy, body therapy, MFT (Multi-Family Therapy) training, occupational therapy, Marte Meo, experiential education, workshop activities, baby massage, and yoga.
Even during free time, learning periods, and supervision times, specialized therapists support parents and children—allowing the therapeutic process to continue almost effortlessly beyond formal treatment sessions.
At the FaTZ nursing and support center, our medical and educational professionals are available throughout the entire clinic day to support you and your child.
Administration
We ensure that daily operations at the FaTZ clinic run smoothly. With highly qualified clinic staff, family-friendly facilities, and efficient administrative processes, we maintain the high standard of quality our patients have come to expect. Our case management team is happy to assist you with any organizational matters related to your stay.
Impressions
Impressions
FaTZ offers welcoming, spacious, and bright rooms spread across three floors in a charmingly furnished villa. Great care was taken in the interior design to preserve a warm, family-like atmosphere. In the courtyard, there is a playground for children and peaceful garden areas where parents can relax.
Located directly at the edge of the forest and just a 10-minute walk from the Neckar River, FaTZ is also centrally situated with excellent transport connections. The S-Bahn station and bus line 35 are within walking distance. You can find all travel details [here]. If you have any questions, our team will be happy to assist you by phone at +49 6223 972900 or via email at kontakt@fatz-neckargemuend.de.
For those traveling from farther away, we also offer the option to stay in one of our patient apartments for the duration of treatment. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.
What Our Patients Say
What Our Patients Say
At our acute day clinic, it is our heartfelt goal to ensure that children and their parents feel safe, supported, and cared for. The feedback we receive offers other families a glimpse into the experiences of those who have already been with us. Below you will find testimonials from patients with a wide range of diagnoses treated in our clinic. Each story and treatment journey is unique.
Parents with Infants or Young Children
Parents with mental health issues after childbirth (e.g. postpartum depression)
The four-month stay at FaTZ didn’t just save my life—it gave my husband, my son, and me the chance to truly begin our life as a family. When I was admitted with my three-week-old son due to acute postpartum depression, I was completely overwhelmed and at the end of my strength. Through the compassionate and professional support of the entire FaTZ team and the open exchange with other families, I slowly found my way into the role of a mother and developed a strong bond with my child. The strategies I learned at FaTZ help me every day to break unhealthy thought and behavior patterns. My husband, my son, and I are deeply grateful to FaTZ.
Parents and Children with Regulatory Disorders
FaTZ is a truly special place! The way the team works in harmony across all areas is remarkable.
Thanks to the uninterrupted time we spent together without everyday distractions, I had the chance to get to know my son (who has severe regulatory issues) on a new level. I could feel the relief in him every morning we arrived—he felt seen and accepted for who he is.
After 12 weeks, I’m noticeably more relaxed, and that calm also reflects in my son.
My 2-year-old son, who couldn’t be regulated, is no longer so clingy, is finding his way into play, is more independent, and speaks up when he wants something. I’ve become more relaxed and take time off.
Parents and/or Children with Traumatic Experiences
I suffer from recurring depression, and our foster daughter has an attachment disorder.
We had a new beginning at FaTZ: I became more confident, more secure in my role as a parent, better at managing conflict, and stronger in dealing with institutions. My child became more confident and independent, more open. She can now express what she wants and what bothers her.
My son (2 years old) and I came to the FaTZ on my own initiative and on the advice of my psychotherapist. He was admitted very quickly after contacting me, for which I am very grateful.
Due to a toxic relationship (psychological and, ultimately, physical violence) with the child’s father, the resulting fears when he had contact with the child, as well as numerous court proceedings and interventions in our personal lives by the contact guardian, guardian ad litem, and youth welfare office, including an official proceeding against me for endangering the child’s welfare due to „attachment intolerance“ toward the child’s father, I was admitted to the FaTZ as a patient in my desperate situation following a nervous breakdown and depression, due to external pressure.
Due to this situation, I had built kilometer-high walls to protect myself. I could no longer trust anyone, especially when it came to my son, and I was filled with anger at the family law system, the judge, and everyone involved in the proceedings. I couldn’t feel myself anymore and burst into tears and anger at the mere thought of the assessment of my ability to parent that was being forced upon me.
The FaTZ team met me exactly where I was at that moment. With a great deal of empathy, understanding, open ears, and careful approaches, they managed to get through to me. Over time, I was able to regain trust, open up, and thus rediscover myself and my feelings hidden beneath the anger. I realized that not „everyone“ is against me and was thus able to look at the world more openly again. They encouraged me that I am a very good mother to my son and showed me, through the video analyses, what a wonderful bond we have.
All of this was possible thanks to the many helpful therapies that initially intertwined unnoticed but always built upon one another. The FaTZ team is always well informed about each patient, at all times. I was only able to take advantage of the wide range of services thanks to the fantastic nursing team, who took wonderful care of my son during the therapy sessions, and I knew at all times that he was in the best hands.
Overall, I can say that FaTZ is a fantastic place, with the best people ever.
During the 11.5 weeks we were here, it felt more and more like family. We enjoyed being here and always felt comfortable and welcome, no matter what our concerns were this time.
Thanks to the help and support I received here, I can look at the challenges ahead with a bit more optimism and will try to tackle the assessment of my ability to parent with courage, confidence, and the knowledge that I am a great mother.
I cannot express my thanks to you in words. I will treasure this time in my heart and always look back with gratitude. I can wholeheartedly recommend FaTZ and the entire team. Anyone who wants to work on themselves, accepts help, and engages with what is offered is not only welcome, but will be helped with every means available!
Parents with Children or Adolescents
Families with challenging behaviors (e.g. impulsivity, social conduct disorder, ADHD)
Our 12-year-old son, who had been diagnosed with conduct disorder, has become more considerate and uses fewer curse words. I’ve learned to set more boundaries. He now consciously chooses to spend time with us—even canceling other plans to do so.
Due to our daughter’s years of constant arguments and extreme defiant behavior, we initially consulted a child therapist. After a year of treatment, we finally came to FaTZ. The therapist was unable to sufficiently influence the interaction between parent and child and therefore recommended a stay at the Family Therapy Center.
Here, I had many opportunities through various activities to connect with our daughter in a new way (without everyday stress and overwhelm), to rediscover my role as a parent, to rethink and slowly abandon unhealthy interaction patterns. My husband and I were able to enjoy more and more moments with her and feel comfortable together. Following our 14-week stay, we developed a therapy plan for outpatient follow-up treatment together.
Many thanks to the FaTZ team for enabling us to rekindle our relationship and „take back“ our child through the safe and supportive environment!
I was admitted to FaTZ with my 5-year-old twins suffering from depression and various undefined psychological symptoms.
I was completely burned out, but so grateful! My children, especially my son, were putting a huge strain on our daily lives with his behavior. We were socially marginalized by his difficult behavior. We practically waved the white flag before being admitted. After so many other outpatient attempts, it felt like our last chance to regain our footing in everyday life, in our social life, and as a family.
I will never forget the feeling of hearing the heavy front door and entering FaTZ. It was a kind of „coming home.“ A place where I can be myself and a place where I am understood and supported. We learned to understand our children’s problems, rediscovered ourselves as parents, and grew together and expanded considerably as a family. But we also gained the strength to be able to participate in normal life again.
FaTZ is a place where all children are equal, and you realize that there are other families struggling and that you’re not alone… and perhaps not in the way that’s typical. Simply special…
The care was always competent, so caring, and always at eye level. Thank you for these very intensive, yet so important five months we were able to spend here. There should be many more places like this that support families in psychological distress.
All the best, dear FaTZ!
Dear FaTZ team, it’s been over three months since we finished our therapy with our son. I wanted to tell you how he’s doing and what’s been going on.
M. has made tremendous progress. We can see that he’s developing. It’s as if the FATZ team had given him the starting signal. He’s starting to do his homework voluntarily, he rides his bike to school by himself, he’s been able to stay home alone for a while now because he has a house key, and sometimes he comes home early from school and then rests (!). Resting itself is working better. He often recognizes when something is too much for him and is more able to escape it. Even when the children are playing in the yard, he can come up to our apartment and do something for himself. And the best thing of all: he hasn’t had a tantrum in ten weeks!!!! He’s becoming more and more of a big brother to Y. Y sometimes even looks up to him. The relationship between the two has improved as a result. Also because M. is more at peace with himself, and Y. is more relaxed as a result.
We still visualize the week for him on the bulletin board. I think both children benefit from this. We also made pictogram cards for the children so they know what they all have to do in the morning. From getting up to brushing their teeth, everything is now visualized, and they can „work through“ their tasks.
But the best thing is: we’ve now found a new school for him.
Finally, we would like to thank you all again for your care, your professional advice, and your patience and effort. You have truly helped us wonderfully.
I just wanted to say THANK YOU to the entire FaTZ team. After our stay with you, I had a support plan meeting with the youth welfare office and have now received all the support my son and I need. Now our lives can move on!
I’m happy to be able to manage my life without having to visit a hospital. It gives me security to know I can always turn to FaTZ when problems arise.
Families with School-Avoidant Children or Adolescents
Our 16-year-old daughter is back in school and even doing a weekly internship at a kindergarten.
We can still feel the lasting impact that our time at FaTZ has had on our daily lives.
After years of unsuccessful therapy attempts, we finally found the right place for us at FaTZ. My 14-year-old daughter, who had long suffered from depression and social anxiety and was out of school, opened up for the first time, making it possible to work successfully with her.
The team is warm, very competent, and highly motivated and committed. All employees are always informed about the current status of each family and are therefore always available to patients.
The clinic is a place of well-being, where one can truly recover. My daughter is back at school, participating in everyday life again, and is able to communicate normally with others again. I have learned to gain a different perspective on many things and to react and act differently in dealing with my daughter.
For us, the stay at FaTZ, with all its ups and downs, was a blessing and a great help.
The FaTZ was a wonderful experience for our entire family. I suffered from burnout and depression, and our 10-year-old son suffered from severe anxiety, so much so that he could no longer attend school. Our family was more or less on the brink of collapse before we were admitted, and within three months at the FaTZ, we were able to begin a new life feeling stronger and more confident. What we found particularly positive:
The simultaneous therapy for both child and parents. This, and only this way, was able to help us; healing can work within the family, because everyone is dependent on the behavior and well-being of the other. We learned a lot about each other and gained a lot of insight into how we can be more stable in the future.
The day clinic approach. You aren’t removed from everyday life; instead, you start at 9 a.m. and go home at 4 p.m. Every day, you have the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in everyday life and to discuss how well it’s working, what you can still refine, and what problems are currently arising at the FaTZ the following day. After a few weeks at FaTZ, our son was able to return to his elementary school for a few hours and take the bus to FaTZ on his own in the late morning. He was constantly faced with new „courage challenges“ that strengthened him in his normal daily life, and he was supported and motivated daily at FaTZ. FaTZ was our daily anchor for better adjusting our daily routines.
The professional team. The FaTZ staff all work with great professionalism and seemed almost like a single organism – everyone was so aware of what was on our minds, and everyone was so well coordinated. The interaction was characterized by great respect, and the range of therapies is as diverse and unique as the staff themselves (in addition to individual and group sessions, there is body therapy, occupational therapy, group excursions, mindfulness training, yoga, beautiful greeting and farewell rituals, which we have come to appreciate greatly, etc.). On the one hand, the team manages to give everyday life at FaTZ a clear rhythm that is very beneficial for anyone who has gotten off track, and creates an atmosphere where you sometimes don’t even notice therapy, even though it’s taking place. Particularly noteworthy are the weekly rounds, when the entire team comes together and the patient families are allowed to become part of this wonderful group. They summarized where they were at and what was next – together with the patients. Revolutionary. During the rounds, the entire team gave my son a big round of applause several times when he had made another step. That was wonderful.
The other parents. Personally, I had reservations about group discussions where everyone shared their problems, even though I already had enough of them myself. However, I quickly realized how beneficial this exchange was and how important it was for all of us. Since FaTZ only accommodates a few families at a time (I think a maximum of 8, depending on the number of people), a wonderful, trusting atmosphere developed, at least in our group, where everyone was there for one another. During our time at FaTZ, we became a small family. An atmosphere where everyone is allowed to be weak, to express how they feel, creates a great deal of humanity among one another. We laughed a lot together and cried here and there – and everything was fine the way it is. We miss you!
The house. A beautiful villa high above the Neckar River, nestled in a magnificent setting with the forest nearby. Nothing here reminds us of a hospital.
We can wholeheartedly recommend FaTZ. After our time there, not all of our problems were resolved; the decisive factor was the path that opened up before us again, replacing the vast area we had lost. A path we can now take, one that gives us support to further stabilize the system.
After my husband suffered from a serious mental illness, our eldest daughter (10) developed a severe anxiety disorder with significant sleep difficulties. She was barely able to leave our home, and after a panic attack during class, she was unable to attend school at all. Despite several outpatient therapy sessions, her condition worsened week by week, which also placed an extreme strain on her younger sister (6).
Admission to a hospital was the last resort for us, one we never wanted to take.
After the initial consultation at the FaTZ, we were all very relieved. The pleasantly decorated rooms exuded a warm atmosphere – the children immediately felt at home there and now referred to the FaTZ as their „children’s home.“
The staff met us in a very caring and positive manner, meeting us where we were during this difficult phase. This allowed my helplessness and despair to slowly give way to new hope.
After a total of 19 weeks at FaTZ with my two daughters, I can only offer the highest praise for the professional approach and the great commitment of each and every staff member.
The mix of services for children and parents separately, but also together, supported by the systemic approach, creates the foundation for lasting change and healing.
Through the excellent therapeutic support, which was individually tailored to our needs, we as a family were able to learn to refocus on our strengths.
Equally valuable was the exchange with the other parents and witnessing their process.
After our discharge from the clinic, we now feel strong enough to manage our daily life as a family and deal with the problems. Our daughter can sleep alone again and, despite her fears, goes to school normally. We as parents are now also trained in how to best help our daughter during periods of anxiety and defiance. We would never have been able to do this in an outpatient setting or in a conventional clinic!
We are very grateful for this help and can recommend FaTZ without reservation.
During a very difficult time, my 14-year-old son, who was no longer attending school, and I received wonderful help here at FaTZ. We received the support and assistance we needed from all sides to get back on our feet. We found all the staff at FaTZ to be extremely competent, compassionate, friendly, and approachable at all times.
It was a very intense and important time and experience for us, and I don’t know where we would be today as a family if we hadn’t been offered a place there!
The mix of services for children and parents, both separately and together, supported by the systemic approach, creates the foundation for lasting change and healing.
Through the excellent therapeutic support, which was individually tailored to our needs, we as a family were able to learn to refocus on our strengths.
Equally valuable was the exchange with the other parents and witnessing their process.
After our discharge from the clinic, we now feel strong enough to manage our daily lives as a family and deal with our problems. Our daughter can sleep alone again and, despite her fears, goes to school normally. We parents are now also trained in how to best help our daughter during periods of anxiety or defiance. We would never have been able to do this in an outpatient setting or at a conventional clinic!
We are very grateful for this help and can wholeheartedly recommend FaTZ.
Parents with Children on the Autism Spectrum or with Other Challenges
We are truly grateful to have gone through the diagnostic process and early support here with our 6-year-old son. After being referred by our child psychologist, we spent six weeks in the partial inpatient program.
The careful diagnostics and the subsequent guidance on how to support our autistic child helped us immensely. It’s important to understand that quality diagnostics take time!
The clinic also helped coordinate everything with the school support staff, the youth welfare office, and the autism coordinator at the regional school board.
Despite the diagnosis, we are relieved to now have clarity and have learned concrete strategies.
A heartfelt thank you once again!
The concept and idea of observing and treating parents and children together was the reason why my son and I decided to stay at FaTZ. At the time of admission, my son had already been receiving psychotherapy for about four years due to his ASD and ADHD diagnoses. I was suffering from depression. However, over time, we increasingly lost our connection. Many long-running discussions and the resulting stressful situations led to repeated arguments that poisoned the mother-child bond. Through our stay at FaTZ, we were able to slowly rebuild our bond and learn which adjustments we could make to prevent situations from escalating, and how to create positive time together. The joint (therapy) sessions with the body therapist, in the workshop, with the child psychotherapist, and the discussion of the Marte Meo video recordings were of great help to us and would not have been possible in this way in any other facility or similar.
Even though, after a few weeks of daily life, things are far from running smoothly and we still have a lot of work ahead of us, we’ve taken many tips, ideas, and opportunities with us from the FaTZ. The social network of fellow patients is also very valuable, as we continue to have a good exchange and can often help each other out or even pick each other up when things aren’t going as planned.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the entire team again for the great work each and every one of them has done!
Families with Depression and/or Anxiety
Das FaTZ ist eine wirklich bemerkenswerte Einrichtung. Hier konnte uns mit in einer intensiven Therapie in familiärer Atmosphäre rasch geholfen werden. Ausnahmslos jeder aus dem hoch qualifizierten Team war für uns jederzeit ansprechbar, mit unseren Problemen vertraut und hilfsbereit. Auch der Austausch mit anderen Familien hat uns sehr geholfen. Wir haben die Persönlichkeit unserer Tochter – und die damit einhergehenden Probleme – in unserer Zeit im FaTZ viel besser verstehen gelernt und zu einem besseren Umgang miteinander und mit der Außenwelt gefunden. Wir werden uns dem FaTZ noch lange, fast freundschaftlich, verbunden fühlen.
Now we’re home for another month, going back to school and work. We’re slowly getting back to normal routine. I was suffering from severe depression, and my daughter, with severe separation anxiety, wouldn’t leave my side.
I don’t want to miss the opportunity, also on behalf of my daughter (8 years old) and my entire family, to thank you for being able to spend the four months at Fatz Neckargemünd.
What we achieved and overcame there would never have been possible as an outpatient. Our family life has regained so much quality, and my depression was finally recognized (after six years of suffering) and overcome.
The clinic team is outstanding in both competence and organization. The respectful way they treat patients, no matter what you learn about them, is unique. I can’t express in words how much this stay helped us.
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU again!!!
I. is now very much involved in our family life again and is very relaxed. Others in our family have noticed this, too. The relationship between her and her father has also improved.
Now we have the freedom to focus on fun things again, like planning our vacation in the longer term. We are very relieved to have found this path for our daughter and to be able to take it with her. We now see F. with completely different eyes and can better understand and accept her „peculiarities.“
Thank you all again!
The interdisciplinary approach of psychotherapy, supplemented by body therapy, group therapy, and knowledge transfer in the areas of psychology, mindfulness, and social skills, led by excellent specialists, laid the foundation for the rapid recovery of our family, including our 6- and 8-year-old sons and our 2-year-old daughter.
The semi-inpatient care allowed us to constantly alternate between the safe space of the clinic and the stressful situation at home (evenings and weekends). This leads to constant confrontation with the remaining problems, which drives the therapy forward, and, if these do not resolve, provides the security of being able to return to a normal life. After a full-time inpatient stay, I would have been afraid of this.
I’ve been suffering from depression for a long time, and my daughter has separation anxiety. My time at FaTZ has made me more consistent; I know that and how I can demand age-appropriate behavior. I also give space to my wishes and needs. My daughter now mostly behaves age-appropriately. She’s better able to express what she wants and what bothers her.
The semi-residential care has allowed us to constantly alternate between the safe space of the clinic and the stressful situation at home (evenings and weekends). This leads to constant confrontation with the remaining problems, which advances the therapy, and if these don’t resolve themselves, gives me the security of being able to return to my normal life. After a full-time inpatient stay, I would have been afraid of that.
Our Therapy Offer
The Family Therapy Center (FaTZ) is a day clinic where children and parents with mental health disorders are treated together. Depending on the indication, parents and children are admitted either as patients or as accompanying persons.
Our services specifically target families in which both parents and children exhibit symptoms within the family.
In various therapeutic settings, we offer a diverse range of coordinated therapy modules based on psychodynamically oriented therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and systemic therapy according to established treatment guidelines.
Therapy Settings
The therapies are oriented towards systemic, cognitive-behavioral, and psychodynamic approaches.
Individual Setting
You and your child receive separate therapies. This includes, for example, talk therapy and movement therapy.
Parent-Child Setting
In addition to individual therapy, you will receive holistic psychotherapeutic treatment as a family.
Multi-Family Setting
In a group with other families, you discover and change your relationship patterns, for example through multi-family therapy, creative therapy, experiential education, or during everyday routines such as lunchtime.
Therapy Components
We place great importance on experiential therapeutic treatments and open activities, such as various creative projects and outdoor activities. Additionally, our therapists provide knowledge about child development and modes of expression alongside individual therapy.
Strengthening Strengths, Overcoming Challenges.
Psychotherapy and Psychiatric Treatment for Adults
We provide guideline-based, multimodal treatment for a wide range of mental health disorders through psychotherapy and psychiatry, including medication support when needed. Together, you will develop and experience solutions and resources for daily life both within and outside the family.
Encouragement to Grow Together.
Psychotherapy and Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Treatment for Children
With our guideline-based, multimodal therapy, we support your child in managing emotions and thoughts effectively, resolving conflicts constructively, and facing challenging situations. Medication therapy can also be provided if needed.
Strong Together.
Multi-Family Therapy
Multi-family therapy strengthens families through exchange and mutual support. In a playful way, we address both small and big family issues and provide space for new perspectives and approaches.
Growing Together Holistically.
Family Conversations
With us, it’s not just individual patients in isolation who are the focus, but always parents and children together. Parent-child and family conversations can help make family conflicts, stresses, or dysfunctional patterns transparent and tangible.
Courage to change.
ACT + Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Presence for Trust.
Parental Presence Group
Strengthening parental presence is a therapy-accompanying component based on the concept of „New Authority.“ Through vigilant and consistent presence, parents promote attachment and relationships, which reduces helplessness and strengthens self-control and confidence.
Fostering Creativity, Strengthening Relationships.
Parent-Child Creative Activities
In the parent-child creative group, you experience your own and your child’s creative power through shared painting and crafting. You learn what is already going well in communication and interaction, and how to recognize and manage any difficulties that arise during the joint activities.
Nature and Therapy for Body and Mind.
Experiential Education Activities
The weekly experiential activity is a shared outing with all patient families in the local area. Interaction not only within, but also between families can broaden horizons and promote social skills as well as personal development.
Space for Growth and Change.
Parent Coaching
Unlike in a traditional therapy session, we experience the challenges of families directly in their everyday lives. Our parent coaching allows for immediate responses to situations and the opportunity to try out new behavioral approaches together.
See. Understand. Grow.
Marte-Meo Therapy
Using video interaction analysis, we visualize positive interaction patterns in everyday family life. These serve as models and enable parents to consciously reflect on and further develop their parenting behavior.
Activating Self-Perception.
Body Therapy
Body therapy promotes access to vitality and strength through conscious experience of bodily sensations, supporting integration and self-regulation. It takes place in individual or parent-child settings.
Acting to Grow.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy strengthens the ability to act and family interaction. It supports the (re)discovery of personal resources and skills for an empowered daily life.
Strengthening Self-Awareness.
Process Monitoring and Feedback
The Synergetic Navigation System (SNS) captures change processes through daily self-assessments, makes progress and optimal timing visible, and enhances your self-reflection and development skills.
Together in Balance.
Yoga and Parent-Child Yoga
Through movement and awareness, new connections arise. In yoga and parent-child yoga, we promote mindfulness, trust, and mutual closeness—in a safe environment and tailored to your needs.
Strong Togetherness for Mothers.
Mothers’ Group (0–3 years)
The FaTZ Mothers’ Group is a specialized therapy program for mothers with postpartum depression, focusing on overcoming motherhood challenges and strengthening resources as well as the mother-child bond.
Development in Focus.
Weekly Focus Group
The goal of our weekly focus group session is to gain new perspectives and promote personal development through exchange, support, and joint reflection.
Building Trust, Overcoming Boundaries.
Animal-Assisted Therapy
Sometimes it can be easier at first to connect with an animal than with a person. Our trained therapy dog team supports you during outdoor activities, in group sessions, or in individual settings.
Treatment at the FaTZ
Treatment at the FaTZ is based on an integrated concept combining psychodynamic therapy, behavioral therapy, and systemic therapy according to guideline procedures. Our treatment program is specially tailored to the needs of families where both parents and children exhibit symptoms within the family. Through holistic therapy in the family context, we promote a healthy and sustainable parent-child bond and stabilize it in the long term.
You may be experiencing:
- Exhaustion, burnout, and lack of energy.
- Difficulty calming down, irritability, and tiredness.
- Feeling overwhelmed in managing your child or children.
- Little or no joy in your child or children anymore.
- Difficulty understanding or connecting with your child or children.
- Not knowing how to handle your child.
- Your child behaves very aggressively toward you.
- Your child shows behavioral difficulties or problems in kindergarten or school.
- Your child appears emotionally withdrawn, has fears, compulsions, or similar symptoms.
- Your child frequently refuses to attend school (school avoidance, absenteeism).
If some or all of these scenarios apply to you, FaTZ can provide professional help. Our team supports you and your child through all phases of treatment in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Diagnoses we treat
We treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including:
- Depression, burnout, exhaustion syndrome
- Mental disorders in the first 3 years after childbirth, e.g., postpartum depression
- Anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders
- Personality disorders, e.g., emotionally unstable (borderline type), avoidant, or dependent personality disorder
- Stress disorders, trauma-related disorders, PTSD
- Adjustment disorders
- ADHD and impulse control disorders
- Autism spectrum disorders
Children
- Emotional disorders, e.g., separation anxiety, sibling rivalry
- ADHD / ADD
- Conduct disorders, e.g., social behavior disorders
- Somatoform disorders, e.g., frequent headaches, stomachaches, somatization
- Anxiety disorders, phobias, OCD
- Attachment disorders
- Autism spectrum disorders, e.g., Asperger’s, atypical autism
- Eating disorders, e.g., anorexia nervosa, feeding disorders
- (Not only early childhood) regulatory disorders, e.g., sleep, crying, feeding problems
The Blue Nest
The Blue Nest focuses on the special developmental and protective needs of children aged 0 to 3 years and their parents. It is part of the long-established day clinic with its attachment-promoting and systemic concept—connected and yet specially protected.
Since the birth of a child does not always lead only to feelings of happiness and can sometimes represent a difficult, stressful, and crisis-ridden time especially at the beginning, the Blue Nest integrated within FaTZ offers a specialized day-clinic therapy for parents and their babies and toddlers.
We can provide quick and effective help to you and your family members.
Your FaTZ Stay in 4 Steps
We are happy to advise you in a non-binding preliminary consultation and assist you with applying for cost coverage through your health insurance.
Inquiry
Are you or your clients interested in our integrated family psychiatric therapy services offered by our day clinic? We warmly invite you to a non-binding preliminary consultation.
Please complete the patient form, the consent form, and our privacy policy for the consultation, and send the documents by email to ambulanz@fatz-neckargemuend.de or by mail. We will get back to you promptly.
If you have any other concerns, please feel free to contact us using the contact form below.
Preliminary Consultation
After receiving your documents, we will offer you an appointment for a non-binding preliminary consultation if it appears therapeutically appropriate. We may also have further questions or recommendations.
The consultation takes place at our day clinic premises in Neckargemünd. It is helpful if at least the family members who are intended for day-clinic admission participate. Other family members or supporters, including professional helpers (e.g., family support services), are also warmly welcome. If it is not possible for the family members who are to be admitted to participate in the consultation, please contact us in advance. Together, we will find a suitable solution. If necessary, the consultation can also be conducted online.
The preliminary consultation includes a conversation with one of our physicians or therapists, a short tour of the facility with information about the daily routine, and an explanation of the possible next organizational steps. The entire appointment lasts approximately 45 to 90 minutes.
Clarification of
Cost Coverage
Before starting therapy at FaTZ, we require a cost approval from your health insurance provider. We are happy to assist you with the application process.
The majority of our patients are covered by statutory health insurance and receive cost approval after an individual application. Usually, certain requirements must be met (e.g., that a day-clinic integrated parent-child treatment by psychiatrically trained physicians and/or psychotherapists is urgently recommended) — we are happy to advise you on this. Private health insurers and aid agencies generally cover the costs for treatment at FaTZ when the indication and necessity are given.
Admission Planning
We schedule your admission date as early as possible and inform you of the possible date or time frame. Please understand that binding statements regarding the length of the waiting time cannot be made. We strive to consider both the order of registrations as well as the current situation and urgency.
When we inform you of your admission date, you will also receive an email with all the information about your stay at FaTZ. Since we are a day clinic, evenings, weekends, and holidays are free for you to use as you wish. For patients who cannot commute daily, there is generally the possibility of accommodation in one of our patient apartments for the duration of the stay, or you may find your own holiday apartment in Neckargemünd or the surrounding area (we are happy to assist you with this as well).
About your FaTZ stay
We are happy to advise and support you throughout the admission process.
FAQ – Treatment and Stay
The duration of treatment depends on the medical and therapeutic necessity and is coordinated individually with you, your family, and the cost provider. On average, therapy lasts about 10–14 weeks, but the exact length varies from case to case. Mental processes, resolving deep-seated difficulties, and trying out and embedding new interaction patterns require time.
Yes, that is possible.
Siblings without a psychiatric diagnosis can be admitted as accompanying children with the parents. They can stay for the full duration, and after consultation, shorter stays or individual days are also possible.
If daily commuting is not possible for you, there is the option to stay in a patient apartment near the clinic during your stay.
We focus on the entire family and their relationships and try, whenever possible, to include partners who are not admitted as patients in the therapy. For example, they can participate in parent and family conversations and, by arrangement, in other therapy elements (e.g., multifamily therapy). In some cases, it may also be helpful for partners to join full therapy days — the specific arrangements for this will be discussed with you individually.
The children have regularly supervised learning times in small groups. Parents usually provide the main subject materials. We aim to establish direct contact with the child’s home school. Towards the end of the stay, if therapeutically appropriate, we support a gradual reintegration into the home school.
FAQ – Cost Coverage and Admission
The majority of patients treated at FaTZ are covered by statutory health insurance. Some statutory health insurance providers cover the costs after an individual application. Please contact us—we are happy to support you.
Private health insurance companies and aid offices generally cover the treatment costs at FaTZ if there is a corresponding medical necessity. We recommend clarifying this in advance. Please contact us—we are happy to support you.
Please bring the following to the admission: the cost approval from your health insurance, previous findings from other healthcare providers, the child’s yellow health booklet and vaccination record, any necessary medications for each person, the completed admission questionnaire, the completed contact list for the child(ren) and parent(s), and the confidentiality release forms.
For your stay, please bring comfortable clothing, slippers, sportswear, and for forest outings, sturdy shoes and clothing that can get wet or dirty (for younger children, mud pants, rubber boots, and a change of clothes, etc.).
Our Collaborations
The FaTZ is an official cooperation partner of the Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, specifically with:
Additionally, we cooperate with the following institutions:
- SRH Neckargemünd, Parent-Child Residential Facilities
- SHG Wiegeschritt
German Society for Systemic Therapy
Since 2017, FaTZ has been certified by the DGSF (German Society for Systemic Therapy, Counseling and Family Therapy) as a family-oriented institution. The recertification took place in 2022.
The DGSF is an interdisciplinary association that connects professionals and institutions in the field of systemic therapy, counseling, and related approaches. The society supports institutions in the psychosocial sector.
The DGSF’s recommendation for an institution is based on the number of systemically qualified leadership and professional staff as well as nursing and care personnel. Moreover, there is an exchange between several institutions, during which the systemic process design is analyzed using a reflection list, the working methods are discussed, and the results are published on the mentioned website. Additionally, the institution writes a self-description presenting its systemic-family-oriented approach and organizational structure.
Living Museum FaTZ Neckargemünd
Living Museum FaTZ Neckargemünd
The Living Museum plans to use two prominent exhibition rooms in the local museum for Living Museum artwork exhibitions and special exhibitions. Participatory activities for interested citizens during events such as “Evening Stroll” and “Living Neckar” are planned and play an important role in building connections between the artists and the city’s population.
Visitors experience how people with intense psychological experiences develop into artists in a creative environment. In an atmosphere of community, solidarity, and openness, their artistic potential becomes visible and appreciated. Regularly changing exhibitions featuring works by Living Museum artists are planned in the City Museum. Selected artists will be supported in preparing these exhibitions—initial steps are already underway. Furthermore, the City Museum sees potential for joint exhibitions showcasing activities of the Living Museum and FaTZ within a historical overview of all such institutions in Neckargemünd.
Concept
The Living Museum is based on the idea of a performance where everything is in flux and constant transformation. Both its members and their works are always growing. Individual traits that might make someone an outsider in society are celebrated here and provide an advantage in creating art. The high artistic potential of people with intense psychological experiences is recognized and publicly exhibited.
The Living Museum reverses the usual idea of integration: it is not the mentally ill who must reintegrate into society, but society that integrates into the Living Museum and begins healing from there. The Living Museum concept offers pathways to healing, promotes high quality of life, is cost-effective, and requires minimal supervision.
Working at FaTZ
Mental health is essential for our well-being. As a Family Therapeutic Center (FaTZ), we are experts in emotional health and offer our employees a positive, inspiring, and supportive work environment. Our daily routine includes diverse tasks in the fields of nursing, therapy, and administration.
If you would like to become part of our dedicated team, we look forward to receiving your application! Below you will find our current opportunities.
Training, Further Education, Voluntary Social Year, and Internships
FaTZ offers various opportunities for training, further education, and internships in different professional fields.
Specialist Medical Training
Physician in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
We hold authorization for 24 months of specialist training in child and adolescent psychiatry and psychotherapy.
Training Program
Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy
For practical training phase 2 (PT2) in child and adolescent psychotherapy, we are approved by the Karlsruhe Regional Council. We cooperate with the following training institutes: Heidelberg Academy for Psychotherapy (HAP, SRH Heidelberg), Center for Psychological Psychotherapy (ZPP, University of Heidelberg), Institute for Analytical Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy (AKJP Heidelberg).
Study-Related Internships
As part of the FELBI degree program (Early Childhood and Elementary Education) at the University of Education Heidelberg, internships with us are possible.
Psychological Internship
You can complete your psychological internship within your Bachelor’s or Master’s studies with us (minimum duration 8 to 12 weeks).
Pedagogical Internship
We offer internships for the recognition year in social work, recognition year for youth and residential educators, practical semesters in social work, as well as short internships during training for educators, curative education professionals (HEP), and similar fields (minimum duration 8 to 12 weeks).8-12 Wochen.
Voluntary Social Year (FSJ)
We offer 2 FSJ positions annually, starting every September. Further information is available on the website of the Welfare Association Baden-Württemberg (Wohlfahrtswerks Baden-Württemberg).
News from the Family Therapeutic Center (FaTZ)
Get insights into our clinical daily routine, upcoming events, ongoing projects, and exciting collaborations that shape and enrich the work at FaTZ.
Newsfeed
In our newsfeed, we continuously update you with relevant posts and news from our day clinic. Here, we share valuable insights, professional articles, and developments from our practice. By linking with our LinkedIn profile, you can stay informed at all times — feel free to follow us so you don’t miss any updates or developments.
Contact
Feel free to contact us by phone or email.
The FaTZ is easily accessible by car and public transportation. You can find all the information about getting here right here.
