Psychological challenges for PhD candidates & postdocs
International research (e.g. Stecker, 2004) shows a heightened risk for psychological symptoms and mental stress for PhD candidates. Also, in the VUB psychological wellbeing survey, several VUB PhD candidates indicated that they perceive a lot of mental stress due to their work and show a heightened risk for psychological distress. Therefore, the VUB doctoral schools developed together with BRUCC a special program targeting psychological challenges for VUB PhD candidates.
The group therapy will be semi-structured. Some aspects will be introduced by the therapist, such as the psychological and social difficulties that might arise while working and living in a foreign country, how to cope with high demands, social isolation, stress, the pressures of deadlines, and perfectionism... These themes will be introduced by the therapist, but the content of the sessions can be adjusted to the specific needs of the group. During the group sessions, we will work on sharing experiences and finding tools to deal with these complex situations.
Practical
Duration: 8 sessions of 2hours each
Trainer: Geert Schelkens is a licensed clinical psychologist and supervisor at BRUCC
Dates: spring 2025, on Friday from 13:30pm untill 15:30pm (full - registration is no longer possible)
- 10/01/25
- 24/01/25
- 07/02/25
- 21/02/25
- 06/03/25
- 04/04/25
- 18/04/25
It consists of 1 individual intake session and 8 group sessions. The process of each individual is strongly enhanced by the process of the group as a whole. It is therefore necessary to follow all sessions.
The intake interview will take place at BRUCC in December.
Before the start of the course, each participant will be invited by the trainer for an intake at BRUCC. Participation in the course will be concluded based on this intake.
Language: English
Terms & conditions: each participant must have joined a healthcare insurance before participating. If you have questions regarding your healthcare insurance, please contact the International Relations Office.
Price: the training is fully funded by Doctor Schools & RIZIV
Location: VUB Campus Etterbeek (BRUCC). The exact location will be communicated after registration