Program Overview

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Introduction to the Master of Advanced Studies in Cognitive-Behavioral Psychotherapy

The Master of Advanced Studies in Cognitive-Behavioral Psychotherapy is a comprehensive program designed to provide participants with the theoretical and clinical knowledge necessary to practice cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy autonomously. This program is offered by the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Geneva.

Objectives

• Acquire and master knowledge of cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy, including theoretical models, clinical applications, and specific techniques, taking into account the latest scientific contributions in the field.
• Extend and deepen social skills necessary for the practice of psychotherapy; reflect methodically on attitudes and relational style in the use of psychotherapeutic intervention strategies and techniques.
• Be able to pose diagnoses and indications for psychotherapy, as well as ensure adequate psychotherapeutic follow-up, adjusting the therapeutic procedure as needed.
• Know how to adapt interventions to different populations.
• Understand and take into account the legal, social, and economic framework in psychotherapeutic care.
• Manage complex situations in a reflective, autonomous, and ethical manner.
• Evaluate and document the stages of psychotherapy as well as the results, using scientifically validated qualitative and quantitative instruments.

Target Audience

The program is designed for psychiatrists and psychologists wishing to acquire the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for the autonomous practice of cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy.

Program Structure

The program consists of 10 modules focusing on knowledge and skills, including:

• Fundamentals of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and their practical applications
• Cognitive and behavioral strategies
• Examples of cognitive-behavioral interventions
• Professional practice
• Treatment protocols
• Other psychotherapeutic approaches
• Other treatment protocols and resource-based interventions
• Specific aspects
• Specific psychotherapeutic populations and formats
• Personality

Supervision and Practical Experience

The program includes supervision, personal therapeutic experience, clinical practice, and individual psychotherapeutic activity, as well as written work (theoretical-clinical dissertation and final study project) and a final examination.

Title Obtained

Upon completion of the program, participants are awarded the Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) in Cognitive-Behavioral Psychotherapy by the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Geneva. For psychologists who have obtained this MAS, the federal postgraduate title of "federally recognized psychotherapist" is also awarded.

Admission Requirements

• Hold a federal diploma as a doctor or a title deemed equivalent, and attest to completed or ongoing postgraduate training in psychiatry.
• Or, hold a master's degree in psychology or a license in psychology from a Swiss university, or a psychology diploma recognized by the Commission of Psychology Professions according to the Psychology Professions Act (LPsy).
• Have access to a patient population allowing for psychotherapeutic practice.
• For psychologists, have followed basic training including at least 12 ECTS in clinical psychology and psychopathology.

Tuition Fees

The tuition fee for the program is CHF 25,250, payable in four installments. A payment arrangement can be granted upon written request.

Duration and Credits

The program lasts from September 2025 to June 2031 and awards 87 ECTS credits.

Teaching Methods

The teaching methods are largely inspired by the cognitive-behavioral model and include interactive teachings, small group work, role-playing, video analysis, application of strategies on personal material, and supervision.

Evaluation

Continuous evaluation throughout the program and a final examination are planned. The continuous evaluation is formative and normative, aiming to verify the progression of students regarding the learning objectives.

Partnerships and Accreditations

The program is designed to meet the requirements of the Federal Act on Psychology Professions (LPsy) and corresponds to the quality standards for the federal postgraduate title of psychotherapist recognized at the federal level. It is accredited by the Association of Swiss Cognitive Psychotherapy (ASPCo) and the University Hospitals of Geneva (HUG).

Direction and Coordination

The program is directed by Prof. Nader Perroud and coordinated by Aline Blanch, both from the Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva.

Scientific Committee

The scientific committee includes professionals from various institutions, ensuring the program's academic and clinical rigor.

Related Formations

Related formations include the DAS in Cognitive-Behavioral Psychotherapy and the CAS in Cognitive and Behavioral Strategies of the Therapeutic Relationship.

Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals

The program contributes to the development of mental health services, aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being).