This course aims to introduce students to the role of psychotherapy in the treatment of mental disorders and to the therapeutic and practical foundations of the most important psychotherapeutic approaches. Students will become familiar with the most commonly applied psychotherapeutic techniques, as well as the indications for the use of psychotherapy in general and for specific groups of therapeutic approaches. Students will be encouraged to engage in critical reflection and discussion on different therapeutic orientations, and to explore their own affinities towards particular methods.

Throughout the course, students will be introduced to the theoretical foundations and practical applications of various psychotherapeutic modalities. Special emphasis is placed on distinguishing psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioural, humanistic-existential, systemic and integrative approaches.

Through lectures and seminars, students will be encouraged to think critically about the purpose, applicability and effectiveness of each psychotherapeutic approach, and to deepen their understanding of personality psychology. Topics covered include the historical development of psychotherapy, key theoretical concepts, therapeutic technique and process, as well as ethical and professional standards in practice.

The practical component of instruction includes simulations of selected techniques and case analysis, enabling students to acquire practical skills in therapeutic work. This includes counselling as a therapeutic technique, as well as techniques such as grounding, psychoeducation, recognition and regulation of emotions, fear hierarchy construction, behavioural experiments, de-escalation and similar methods.

The aim of the course is to enable students to develop a deeper understanding of therapeutic dynamics, and to recognise which type of therapy is most suitable for a particular clinical context, while respecting the individual needs of patients. Ultimately, students will be equipped to integrate fundamental psychotherapy knowledge into their future professional practice. The course provides the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for further education and specialisation in psychotherapy.

Prerequisite: passed examination in Psychiatry in the 4th year of study.