Opening of the psychotherapeutic university outpatient clinic: New hope for patients!

Opening of the psychotherapeutic university outpatient clinic: New hope for patients!

A significant event took place at Ulm University in mid-September 2025: the ceremonial opening of the Psychotherapeutic University Outpatient Clinic (PHSA) at the new location at Bahnhofstrasse 8. Around 100 visitors were given an insight into the outpatient treatment options that have been available to patients since August 2024. The outpatient clinic treats the entire spectrum of mental illnesses, with a focus on depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and eating disorders.

During the opening speech, Professor Michael Weber, President of Ulm University, emphasized the central location of the new PHSA and its importance for the mental health of the population. “Here we want to send a signal that mental health is very important,” he said. At the same time, Professor Matthias Tichy, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Computer Science and Psychology, emphasized the close connection between research, teaching and healing.

Modern treatment methods and research approaches

The new rooms offer a modern and protected atmosphere for the treatments. The therapy rooms for children and young people in particular are creatively designed, including colorful balls and a table football table to create an appealing environment. Currently, around 310 patients are cared for per quarter in 27 individual and 8 group therapy rooms. The PHSA has moved to this central location on Schaffnerstrasse since it was founded ten years ago.

A key aspect of the PHSA is the training of students in the master’s program “Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy”. They have the opportunity to gain valuable practical experience while working towards a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree and approval to practice as a psychotherapist. Only universities that have their own psychotherapeutic university outpatient clinic are allowed to offer such a course of study.

Research at PHSA focuses on, among other things, the study of stress, lifestyle factors and digital health interventions. Professor Olga Pollatos researches the ability to perceive physical signals and their influence on the success of therapy. Professor Harald Baumeister also explained the integration of digital tools into psychotherapy. An important component of outpatient treatment is the therapy method, which is based on current and evidence-based practices.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

A central topic in psychotherapeutic work is post-traumatic stress disorder, which often occurs after trauma. Symptoms such as unwanted recurring stressful memories, anxiety and sleep disorders are typical. PTSD can result in serious impairments in the everyday life of those affected. They often experience a distorted perception of reality and persistent negative beliefs about themselves and others. Especially in children, PTSD can show other symptoms, such as nightmares or difficulty concentrating.

Due to the potential severity of these diseases, early evaluation and treatment is crucial. The modern therapy procedures at PHSA aim to create security and help those affected to deal with their traumatic experiences.

In addition to the PHSA, the University Outpatient Clinic for Mental Health (HPG) at the University of Duisburg-Essen also offers outpatient psychotherapeutic treatments. These have existed since June 2019 and are usually financed by statutory health insurance companies. The therapies are comparable to those of outpatient psychotherapy practices and at the same time serve as a basis for psychotherapeutic research in order to sustainably improve the future of the therapies. Further information is available on the respective university websites: uni-ulm.de, uni-due.de, ku.de.