We offer free, anonymous, and confidential counselling. We welcome everyone who comes to us, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or background. We treat you with respect and without judgment. We do not judge. We listen. We do not patronize. We support you in finding your own solution, making your own decisions, and following your own path.
What to Expect From Us
We listen to you. And we ask questions that may open up new ways of thinking. We know that you are the expert on your own life. We do not judge. We share our knowledge and experience with you. Where needed, we refer you to a debt counselling service, a midwife or a specialist family law solicitor. Counselling is generally conducted in German. We also offer counselling in plain language and, where necessary, make use of gestures, online dictionaries and multilingual materials. In many cases, it is possible to arrange an interpreter on request.
Your Legal Entitlement
Everyone in Germany has a legal right to sex education and to counselling on contraception, family planning, sexuality and all matters relating to pregnancy. Free, professional counselling at AWO pregnancy counselling centres and those run by other providers is not a charitable favour – it is part of the basic provision available to everyone, like schooling, public roads and hospitals. Do not hesitate to make use of this service.
All Genders Welcome
We counsel women, men, non-binary, trans* and intersex people – regardless of whether they are heterosexual, lesbian, gay, bisexual or asexual. On all matters relating to pregnancy, sexuality and contraception. We also offer support and information after the birth of a child with variations in sex characteristics. Whether you want to start a rainbow family, need advice about an affair or want to work through difficulties in a marriage or partnership/ relationship: we are here to listen. Whatever your situation, you will be met with understanding, respect, and without judgement.
Couples, Single People and Other Constellations
We value all forms of living arrangements, relationships and individuality. We counsel couples as well as individual partners, throuples, families and single people. Blended families and one-night stands are equally welcome, as are people who are part of a family’s wider social circle – expectant grandparents, housemates, concerned neighbours, close friends or professionals.
Free, Anonymous and Confidential
Counselling is free of charge. On request, you can receive counselling anonymously – meaning you do not have to give your name. All counsellors are bound by professional confidentiality. Everything you discuss with our counsellors is strictly confidential. They are not allowed to share any information with anyone else – not with your parents, partner, doctor, the Youth Welfare Office, or anyone else – without your consent. You may come to us for counselling more than once – up until your child’s third birthday. An appointment is usually required in advance. Some counselling centres also offer telephone or online counselling.
Still have questions?
We are happy to advise you in person. Anonymous and free of charge. Respectful and empowering