About This Trip
This immersive program blends cultural exploration with professional learning in psychology and mental health across Bulgaria and Turkey. Participants begin in Sofia, gaining insight into community-based care and social inclusion through visits with local organizations, alongside guided exploration of Bulgaria’s historical and cultural landmarks. The journey continues to Veliko Tarnovo, where participants engage with daycare centers, hospitals, and educational institutions, exploring contemporary and historical approaches to mental health, disability services, and rehabilitation through hands-on activities and professional exchanges.
The program then moves to Turkey, featuring academic and professional experiences at Edirne’s Sultan Bayezid II Health Museum and Uskudar University, a leader in psychology and mental health research. Cultural immersion in Istanbul—including iconic historical sites—provides context for understanding the social and environmental influences on mental wellbeing. The experience concludes with a Bosphorus dinner cruise, celebrating cross-cultural connections and professional insights gained. Throughout the journey, participants develop a global perspective on mental health through direct engagement with communities, institutions, and cultural heritage in two diverse countries.
Learn more and Enroll HERE!
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this program, participants will have:
- Increased understanding of the cultures, languages, and social norms of Bulgaria and Turkey, including their educational and medical systems
- Identified culturally appropriate and sustainable evaluation and treatment approaches
- Developed skills for working with culturally and linguistically diverse individuals and communities
- Strengthened culturally responsive communication with clients, families, caregivers, and professionals
- Examined how culture influences assessment tools, intervention strategies, prompts, and caregiver training
- Compared and contrasted the educational and healthcare systems of Bulgaria and Turkey
- Analyzed ethical considerations, global issues, and the impact of personal values on clinical practice
- Built career-relevant knowledge and professional connections through direct access to experienced practitioners
Optional Course Credits
Students interested in earning academic credit for this program may enroll through California State University Bakersfield. This course offers upper-division credits and complements the experiential learning components of the Bulgaria & Turkey Psychology, Medicine, and Mental Health Program. This three-credit course is PSYC 3770: Culture & Health**. This course offers upper-division credits and complements the experiential learning components of the Bulgaria & Turkey Psychology, Medicine, and Mental Health Program.
Learn more and Enroll HERE!
Accommodations, Airfare & Payments
Participants stay in comfortable 3- and 4-star hotels across multiple locations in Bulgaria and Turkey, featuring shared rooms with private bathrooms, individual beds, air conditioning, WiFi, and modern amenities. Faculty accommodations are private. Meals include a mix of local and Western cuisine, with dietary needs accommodated in advance, and the warmth and hospitality of both countries ensure a welcoming experience throughout the journey.
International airfare is not included in the program cost. Therapy Abroad offers a chaperoned group flight, with flexible options for independent travel.
Except for airfare, program tuition is fully inclusive—covering housing, meals, activities, and materials—with no hidden fees or optional add-ons, allowing participants to focus fully on their academic and cultural experience.
