Johannes Fries, M.Sc., Licensed Psychological Psychotherapist
I am a licensed Psychological Psychotherapist from Cologne, Germany, with a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy and state licensure obtained in 2025. My professional experience includes working in inpatient addiction treatment, open youth work, and creative therapeutic settings.
Before becoming a psychotherapist, I worked as a communication designer, which still influences my therapeutic style – integrating a creative approach into my clinical work when beneficial. Over the years, I have gained experience in both individual and group therapy, as well as in project-based work with socially and educationally disadvantaged youth.
I completed my clinical training at St. Camillus Clinic in Duisburg, specializing in detoxification and the treatment of substance use disorders. In addition, I have volunteered for several years with the Lebenshilfe Köln, supporting individuals with neurological conditions in their daily lives.
Through a one-year stay in Australia and close friendships in the UK, I regularly use English in everyday life and professional contexts. This international background allows me to connect with English-speaking clients and understand the unique challenges of living abroad, cultural adjustment, and the need for supportive connections when far from home.
My therapeutic approach draws from cognitive-behavioral therapy and creative, resource-oriented methods tailored to the individual’s needs.
Counseling Work Experience M.Sc. Johannes Fries, Licensed Psychological Psychotherapist
2025 Private Practice / International Client Work (Online & In-Person)
2024 – 2025
St. Camillus Clinic, Duisburg, Germany – Inpatient Addiction Treatment, Psychotherapeutic intern providing individual and group therapy, diagnostics, and treatment planning in a detoxification setting for various substances.
2019 – 2024
KJA LRO – Open Youth Work, Odenthal, Germany - Youth worker in a community youth center, facilitating creative, cultural, and educational group activities, supporting adolescents.
2019
University Hospital Cologne – Art Therapy Support - Co-facilitated art therapy groups for inpatient individuals, organized exhibitions of patient work.
2017 – 2022
Lebenshilfe Köln e.V., Germany – Volunteer Counselor & Companion, Long-term support for a client with an acquired neurological condition (post-stroke), assisting with rehabilitation activities, community participation, and everyday skills.
Licensed Psychological Psychotherapist (Germany)
2025 Approbation Bezirksregierung Arnsberg
Education
2022 – 2025
Master of Science, Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy – Ruhr University Bochum, Germany
2017 – 2021
Bachelor of Science, Psychology – University of Cologne, Germany
2011 – 2013
Diploma in Media & Communication Design – Werbeakademie Marquardt, Dortmund, Germany