Kherson State University

From November 4 to 8, participants of the international Erasmus+ BURN project took part in a study visit hosted by the International Psychoanalytic University (IPU) in Berlin, Germany.

The Department of Psychology at Kherson State University, consisting of Professor Ihor Popovych, project coordinator; Associate Professor Nataliia Tavrovetska, lecturer and content developer; Valentyna Kalenchuk, lecturer and Head (Coordinator) of the Center for Psychological Resilience and Wellbeing, participated in the EU Erasmus+ program under the "Development of Higher Education Potential" initiative: Boosting University Psychological Resilience and Wellbeing in (Post-) War Ukrainian Nation (101129379 – BURN – ERASMUS-EDU-2023-CBHE).

On the first day of the internship, participants met with IPU Vice-President, Professor Birgit Stürmer, who set a psychotherapeutic tone for the discussions by reflecting on historical intersections in mental health support during wartime.

Later, Yurii Nesterko, Head of IPU’s Research Department, introduced the group to the work of ZENTRUM ÜBERLEBEN (Survival Center), which specializes in the rehabilitation and integration of refugees and migrants. The Center’s work is complemented by scientific research, the development of diagnostic methods, and documentation of trauma causes, consequences, and treatment.

Additionally, Karmen Scheer, Head of IPU’s International Department, shared insights from her experience working on the project "Social Trauma in Changing Societies" (2012–2024).

Professor Andreas Hamburger and colleagues, showcasing findings from years of studies on social trauma, its diagnosis, and psychotherapy approaches

On the second day, KSU representatives visited Freie Universität Berlin, one of Germany’s largest universities and a member of the German University Association. Dr. Stefan Petri, the university’s Director, and psychotherapist Brigitte Reisen-Kostudis provided insights into the structure and key aspects of the university’s Psychological Support Service, including its operations and statistical data. Professor Phil Langer presented his research on "Shared Narration as a Method of Participating in Trauma-Sensitive Work with Vulnerable Groups." Trauma work is a coordinated process and outcome that involves a set of measures aimed at preventing the development of post-traumatic stress disorders, restoring the functioning of the individual affected by the traumatic event, and fostering their stress resilience.

The third day of the Erasmus+ BURN internship began with an introduction to the IPU Psychotherapy Clinic, which serves approximately 1,000 patients annually and includes an inpatient department. In addition to providing psychological support and psychotherapeutic interventions, the clinic places a strong emphasis on scientific research. Participants continued exploring IPU’s infrastructure, visiting its library, which holds one of the largest collections of psychoanalytic literature. As part of the cultural program, the delegation attended a Lunchtime Concert at the Berlin Philharmonic. Later, the group visited Sigmund Freud University Berlin, where Professor David Becker shared insights from his extensive experience working with trauma-related processes. He emphasized the need for universities to establish institutional support models for their staff. Discussions covered contemporary resilience challenges and strategies for strengthening psychological resilience. The day, rich in impressions and educational technologies, concluded with a Social Dinner at "Dieselhaus."

On the fourth day, participants examined the work of university psychological support services. Melanie Eckert, Director of the University Psychological Support Service, presented key aspects of its operations, highlighting the importance of providing professional psychological support to young people in crisis situations. Discussions with Krisenchat representatives focused on outlining potential future collaboration opportunities.
Another significant event was a presentation by IPU’s International Department Head, Karmen Scheer, on the creation and functioning of Support Centers. The proposed algorithm offers an optimistic outlook for the establishment of such a structural unit in HEIs in Ukraine.

On the fifth day of the training visit, together with the project organizers – Professors Lars Kuchinke and Phil Langer – the participants summarized the results, analyzed expectations and actual achievements, and set dates for the next educational activities. They also created a ranking of preferences for key project events and focused on EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) – a method for desensitizing and reprocessing trauma using eye movements.

In the second part of the working day, Professor Lutz Wittmann (IPU) shared his personal experience and offered supervision cases in the context of “Trauma and Psychoanalytic Traumatic Interventions.” He revealed the secrets of his own professional growth and the specifics of combining psychotherapeutic approaches.

At the conclusion of the Erasmus+ BURN study visit, KSU Psychology Department representatives – Ihor Popovych, Nataliia Tavrovetska, and Valentyna Kalenchuk – received certificates of completion and provided feedback to the project organizers.

The KSU delegation expressed heartfelt gratitude to Professor Lars Kuchinke, the entire IPU team, and all participants for their warm welcome, outstanding organization, professionalism, and productive collaboration.

Press Center of Kherson State University