Our 2024 Summer School will take place from 1st – 12th July 2024 and focus on “Communication in Relationships”!

Every year in summer, Sigmund Freud Private University Vienna hosts an international Summer School to present a blend of its strength in psychotherapy science. It aims at attracting students from around the world, creating a vibrant and diverse atmosphere. 

What is psychotherapy science?

Psychotherapy science at SFU is a unique study programme: its curriculum is designed according to the Austrian psychotherapy law and allows graduates to work as psychotherapists. There is a crucial difference between psychotherapy science and psychology (even with counselling psychology): psychotherapy science is based on the first and second person approach to the human mind, as opposed to psychology which is based on the third person perspective that is said to be ‘scientific’. Psychotherapy science reunites hermeneutical with clinical knowledge and puts an emphasis on self-awareness and empathy.

Summer School: course description

The characteristics of the university’s study programme are mirrored in the courses making up the Summer School – which we are happy to present to you. During the two weeks, various therapy schools will be presented, each of them for one (intensive) day: psychoanalysis, systemic therapy, gestalt therapy, person-centred therapy, and cognitive behavioural therapy.
In the mornings the theoretical foundations will be discussed; in the afternoon the focus will shift to treatment techniques, and in the evening the participants will practice self-awareness based on these psychotherapy methods.

Blending theory and practice

In addition to lectures on specific topics, the summer school includes therapy observation at SFU’s Outpatient Clinic. 
The closing session will be a Modality Workshop: psychotherapists from different psychotherapy schools will discuss their respective approaches. This pluralistic approach will be an eye-opening experience, especially when done in mutual appreciation.

Don’t miss out! Secure your spot today and register HERE.