When you move to a new country, even familiar tasks can take more effort. Finding someone to talk to should not mean deciphering unfamiliar terminology, searching for fees or wondering whether you will be understood.
If you are looking for therapy in English in Bucharest, a few practical questions can help you decide whom to contact. You do not need a polished explanation of what is wrong before making an enquiry.
Look beyond “English spoken”
The question is not simply whether a therapist speaks English, but whether you feel comfortable having a personal conversation in that language. You may want to explain something complicated, hesitate, make a joke or search for a word without feeling rushed.
Ask about their experience working in English and with people from different cultural backgrounds. In your first meeting, notice whether you feel able to ask for clarification or explain what a particular experience means to you. Shared language does not automatically mean shared assumptions.
Ask about qualifications and the kind of work offered
Read the professional’s qualifications and ask which services they provide. If a profile is unclear, request details of their professional registration, psychotherapy training and experience relevant to what you are looking for.
Be specific about the format you need. Individual therapy, couples work, support for a teenager and career-focused conversations are not interchangeable. Ask whether the practitioner offers the service you have in mind rather than assuming that every option on a directory is available.
You can also ask: “How would we decide whether your approach is a good fit for me?” A useful first conversation leaves room for questions, including whether another professional or service might be more appropriate.
Make the practical details clear
Before booking, check the fee, session length, location and appointment arrangements. If you hope to claim the cost through an insurer or employer, ask that provider what documentation and practitioner qualifications they require. An invoice alone does not guarantee reimbursement.
For in-person appointments, think about the journey from your home or workplace. An attractive practice is a welcome extra; being able to attend comfortably and consistently matters too.
For online sessions, tell the therapist which country you will be in. Do not assume that online availability means appointments can take place from every location. You can also ask which platform is used and what you need for a private conversation.
Use the first session to ask questions
You do not have to tell your whole story at once. You might begin with what prompted you to reach out, what feels difficult at the moment or what you hope could be different.
Questions you may want to ask include:
- How would we agree on what to work on?
- How often might we meet, and when would we review that?
- What are the confidentiality arrangements and their limits?
- What should I do if something about our work does not feel right?
The first meeting is also an opportunity to understand how the therapist works. You do not need to arrive knowing the name of an approach or having a diagnosis.
Therapy in English with Sabina Dumitrescu
Sabina Dumitrescu offers psychotherapy in English and Romanian, with native-level English and experience working across cultures. In-person appointments are available at Str. Puțul lui Zamfir 60 in Dorobanți, Bucharest. Online sessions can be discussed when you enquire, including whether they are suitable and available from your location.
The fee is €99 for a 60-minute individual session. Appointments are available Monday to Friday at an agreed time. Invoices are available; reimbursement depends on your insurer or employer.
Read about therapy in English or request an appointment by calling +40 722 648 650 or emailing sabina.dumitrescu@gmail.com.
In your first message, simply mention your preferred language, whether you would like to meet in person or online, and a few times that suit you. There is no need to include sensitive personal details. Your appointment is confirmed once a time has been agreed.