In light of the Third International and Interdisciplinary Congress on Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy

Sarajevo is set to host the Third International and Interdisciplinary Congress on Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy at the Hotel Hills from October 3rd to 6th, 2024. This prestigious event will bring together experts from diverse fields and regions to delve into, exchange experiences, and deepen discussions on crucial topics related to the mental health of children, adolescents, and their families.

In times of turbulence, it’s essential to identify and develop positive strategies, underscoring the significance of profound changes in communication and interpersonal relationships from an early age. Hence, the theme of this year’s congress “Reflection of Communication and Relationships on the Health of Children, Youth, and Families: Therapeutic Approaches.”

The World Health Organization stresses the importance of mental health as a pivotal aspect of the well-being of children and youth, emphasizing the need for collective, global efforts to advance mental health and ensure sufficient and effective support for children and youth.

“Drawing from the insights of the Second Congress on Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy held in Sarajevo in 2020, which focused on the potential of psychosocial support for the protection of children and youth during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, we are prioritizing continuous education and strengthening connections among individuals significantly influencing child and adolescent development in health, social protection, education, and justice. The 2024 Congress builds on these insights and the realities impacting the mental health of children, adolescents, families, and society at large. Its orientation to trauma, transgenerational and integrational transfers, lifestyle changes and the impact of everyday life is intersectoral and interdisciplinary. The congress emphasizes exploring causes, approaches, and treatments, along with collaborative support strategies to preserve the mental health of children and youth, which profoundly affects individuals and societies as a whole, including the future of the entire world” as stated by the President of the congress, Prof. Dr. Dubravka Kocijan Hercigonja, a neuropsychiatrist and psychotherapist for children and adolescents, and honorary president of the European Interdisciplinary Therapy Service for Children and Youth.

Following the successful tradition of previous gatherings, the congress draws a substantial number of participants, including over 500 experts, scientists, and practitioners worldwide.

The program will feature a range of lectures, workshops, and panel discussions on current topics, including exploration of the roots of aggression and its impact on empathy erosion, abuse, transgenerational and intergenerational trauma transmission, growth, and recovery, all integrated through an intersectoral and interdisciplinary approach.

Highlighted dates and deadlines, such as the commencement of online registration on March 4th, 2024, the release of the preliminary program on March 7th, 2024, and the finale abstract submission deadline on May 7th, 2024, provide potential participants with the necessary information to plan their involvement.

For all other congress-related information, including registration instructions and a detailed program, contact us via hi@congress.bhidapa.ba and follow the official website and social media channels created specifically for the event.

Join us in Sarajevo for this momentous gathering, seize the opportunity, and contribute to development of psychotherapeutic methods, approaches, and practices, with a dedicated focus on preserving and improving the mental health and well-being of children and youth.