Psychosomatic physiotherapy. Body and Mind - a Holistic Perspective, 15 credits

A physiotherapy degree of at least 120 credits is required. Swedish and English language skills equivalent to Swedish B and English A at Swedish upper secondary school are also required.

The aim of the course is to give advanced knowledge and skills in the area of psychosomatic physiotherapy; such as body/movement therapy, and to teach a therapeutic approach. After completed education, the student should be able to carry out treatment based on holistic principles and to be prepared to engage in quality assurance within the area.
On completion of the course, the student should :
- be able to account for and apply a biopsychosocial perspective on different health problems
- be able to apply knowledge in communication and interview technique
- be able to account for and reflect on their therapeutic approach, i.e. the significance of the interaction in the physiotherapeutic treatment and be able to apply their knowledge in the therapeutic encounter.
- be able to apply a holistic perspective in the assessment process
- be able to independently plan and carry out adequate treatment for patients with psychosomatic- and mental problems
- be able to promote behavioural change
- have an understanding of the physiotherapist's part in the treatment process, and ability to reflect on his/her own potentials and limitations in the treatment situation
- have acquired a scientific and critical attitude as well as an ability to reflect on him/herself and be aware of the need of a lifelong learning

The course comprises
- psychological and behavioural medicine models on health and illness including psychosomatic theory
- stress theory, neurophysiology and the importance of autonomic regulation
- affect theory, attachment theory and mentalization
- Central concepts, such as body, being, meaning and reflection, to facilitate the understanding of body-mind unity
- therapeutic attitude and approach
- examination methods with an emphasis on the Resource-Oriented Body Examination (ROBE), body history, body image and affect interview
- treatment methods with an emphasis on body awareness exercises based on Basic body awareness therapy (BAT), psychomotor physical therapy (PMF), mindfulness, physical activity and therapeutic touch, relaxation methods and the therapeutic dialogue
- introduction to Cognitive-behavioural Therapy methods
- case discussions

- Theoretical and practical teaching
The teaching includes lectures, seminars, practical exercises and literature studies.
- Patient case discussions in seminars
- Own work

Assessment of knowledge, skills, attitudes and reflection ability take place continuously through follow up of study assignments, seminar discussions and at the final examination. The examination consists of a group task concerning a theoretical report and an individual case report with a theoretical part presented orally as well as in writing. Peer-review is applied.

For a Pass grade in the course, fulfilment of study assignments, approved examination, attendance and active participation in seminar discussions are required.

The course has been cancelled and was offered for the last time in the spring semester of 2013. 

Language of instruction: Swedish.

Course evaluation is carried out in accordance with the guidelines established by the Board of Education. During the course, the participants are encouraged to give their views on the course content and arrangements. .