Location

Lisbon, Sintra, Porto, Portugal

Program Description

Graduate students will complete a 1-credit course (Special Topics in Graduate Psychology: Leading Towards Wellness: A Cross Cultural Experience).

The course will take place during the study abroad experience. Students will be introduced to major cities in Portugal (Lisbon, Sintra, and Porto) via city tours.Students will be required to attend two pre-departure meetings.

Students will be immersed in the culture of Portugal and visit three different professional sites focused on well-being and social justice. Sites are likely to include: The Institute of Global Mental Health (IGMH); Mental Health Lisbon Psychology; SoulCareAI's and Social Services Ares do Pinhal.

These agencies are dedicated to mental health services, exploring technology in the provision of mental health services, and promoting social inclusion and empowerment for marginalized communities.

The course topics include: holistic wellness, cross-cultural factors in wellness and mental health, and developing global leaders in the field of mental health service provision. Students will end the study abroad experience by participating in a nature-based wellness retreat.

Location Description

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city rich in history, culture, and charm, nestled on the banks of the Tagus River. Two UNESCO World Heritage sites will be visited, including Torre de Belém and Jerónimos Monastery.

Porto is Portugal’s second-largest city, known for its historic architecture, vibrant culture, and world-famous Port wine. From the picturesque Ribeira district along the Douro River to the grand Clérigos Tower and the stunning Livraria Lello, Porto seamlessly blends history with modern allure.

Sintra, located near Lisbon, is a longtime royal sanctuary, with forested terrain studded with pastel-colored villas and palaces.

Director

Michele Kielty | kieltyml@jmu.edu | Graduate Psychology

Tammy Gilligan | gilligtd@jmu.edu | Graduate Psychology

Accommodations

Accommodation options are double occupancy in centrally-located, four-star hotels.

Daily Breakfast and two dinners will be included in the cost of the program. Students should plan to spend their own money each day to cover the cost of lunch. Students should plan to spend their own money each day to cover the cost of dinner, with the exception of the two program dinners.

Additional Items to Consider

This is a graduate course designed for students who will be entering service-oriented professions (i.e. counseling, teaching, medical services, social services).

Passports are required. Information for cell phone usage will provided during pre-departure orientations.

Applicant Criteria

Applicants must have a GPA minimum of 3.0.

Open to all graduate students.