Bulgaria & Turkey: Psychology, medicine & Mental Health program

Hands-on Learning. Cultural Immersion. Real-World Impact.

Discover the intersection of culture, community, and mental health on this immersive journey through Bulgaria and Turkey. Beginning in Sofia and Veliko Tărnovo, participants explore the evolution of psychology and mental health care through visits to local foundations, daycare centers, hospitals, and universities—engaging in hands-on activities such as art and music therapy. Crossing into Turkey, the program continues with academic exchanges at Uskudar University and the Sultan Bayezid II Health Museum, offering unique insight into historical and modern approaches to mental wellbeing. Along the way, participants experience iconic cultural sites—from Tsarevets Fortress and Bacho Kiro Cave to Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar—culminating in a farewell Bosphorus dinner cruise that celebrates a transformative journey of learning, connection, and reflection.

Bulgaria & Turkey: Psychology, Medicine & Mental Health Program

15-Day Program Dates: June 18-July 2, 2026

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Why Travel to Bulgaria & Turkey to Learn About Psychology, Medicine & Mental Health

Explore two of the world’s most fascinating crossroads of culture and science. In Bulgaria, discover how centuries of history, resilience, and community-centered care shape approaches to mental health today. From hands-on experiences in daycare and rehabilitation centers to exchanges with university professionals, you’ll gain insight into how social inclusion and tradition inform therapy practices.

In Turkey, explore the evolution of medicine and mental health from the Ottoman era to the modern day through visits to the Sultan Bayezid II Health Museum and Uskudar University—one of Turkey’s leading psychology institutions. Together, these destinations offer a rare opportunity to understand mental wellbeing through cultural, historical, and global perspectives.

eligibility Criteria for Psychology, Medicine & Mental Health Program

Therapy Abroad welcomes undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, and graduate students studying psychology, medicine, public health, social work, or related fields. Faculty leaders and professionals seeking continuing education opportunities are also encouraged to join.

Why Travel with Therapy Abroad?

Therapy Abroad is not just a study abroad provider—it’s a global learning community.

All programs are designed by clinicians, professors, and public health professionals to create safe, hands-on, and academically rigorous experiences.

All locations and accommodations are personally vetted for safety and comfort.
You’ll have 24-hour in-country support, experienced facilitators, and pre-departure preparation.
With structured faculty engagement, fundraising options, and clear tuition pricing, Therapy Abroad ensures an inclusive, transparent, and transformative experience.

What Will I Do in Bulgaria and Turkey

You’ll explore the intersection of psychology, medicine, and culture through:

Hands-On Service Learning: Work with children and adults with disabilities in Bulgarian daycare and rehabilitation centers.

Academic Exchanges: Learn from leading psychology faculty at Veliko Tărnovo and Uskudar Universities.

Field Visits: Observe mental health services at hospitals, geriatric centers, and social rehabilitation institutions.

Cultural Exploration: Tour landmarks such as Tsarevets Fortress, Dryanovo Monastery, Bacho Kiro Cave, and Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.

Reflection and Connection: Conclude your trip with a group dinner cruise on the Bosphorus, celebrating personal and professional growth.

Bulgaria and Turkey Program Accommodations

Participants stay in 3–4-star hotels featuring air-conditioned rooms, Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Students share rooms (1–2 per room), while faculty enjoy private accommodations. Meals include a mix of local and Western cuisine, and special dietary needs can be accommodated. Expect comfort, safety, and a warm cultural welcome throughout your stay.

Ready to expand your world and your career?
Join Therapy Abroad’s Bulgaria & Turkey: Psychology, Medicine & Mental Health Program and discover how culture and compassion connect across borders.

What’s Included with your tuition for Psychology, Medicine & Mental Health Program?

Travel and study abroad is a big investment and our commitment to you is that we will work hard every day to make sure you are going to have the most amazing experience: professional staff, tasty meals and comfortable accommodations, and overall, a well-crafted itinerary full of diverse activities and good people. With the exception of international airfare, our trips are all-inclusive. All domestic transport, meals, accommodation, all activities, supervision, and all excursions. We won’t try to upsell you on any “additional activities” or “additional optional activities” that aren’t advertised as part of the program. More specifically, your program includes:

Pre-departure support
Flights team support staff
Professional and licensed staff (practitioners and academics)
24-hour emergency support staff and in-country support
Airport pick-up in Bulgaria
Private transport throughout the country
Experienced facilitators
Shared, comfortable accommodations
All meals
Snacks and drinking water
Orientation and curriculum
All necessary equipment, materials and supplies
All activities listed in the program itinerary
All domestic transport
Flights from Sofia to Istanbul
Materials, tests and diagnostic tools
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