WHEN: May 11-16, 2008
LOCATION: Otavalo, Ecuador
WHAT IS INCLUDED:  lodging, meals, and local transportation.
CLASS SIZE:  limited in size to 20 people, minimum 10
LANGUAGE: English

ORGANIZED & SPONSORED by Runajambi
CO-SPONSORED by WPA-Transcultural Psychiatry Section 

This is a unique international summer seminar designed for health professionals, faculty and students interested in health issues and healing practices of the Indigenous Peoples of the Andes.  Participants will have the opportunity to study the Quichuas' (Inca) health and traditional medical system.  This seminar is offered by Runajambi (Institute for the Study of Quichua Culture and Health).  The program will also provide a rich intercultural learning experience through first-hand and close interaction with the Quichua people.

Runajambi will host the seminar in the beautiful town of Otavalo, located in the Northern highlands of Ecuador.

This one week experiential and academically rigorous seminar will explore the commonalities and differences of the Quichua medicine/psychiatry and Western biomedical system as well as their interaction in the Ecuadorian context. It will cover the following areas: (1) Quichua theories of illness; (2) Quichua health status and major culture-bound syndromes; (3) the common roots and equivalent efficacy of Quichua healing interventions and Western psychotherapy; (4) underlying neurobiological mechanism of Quichua and Western healing methods; (5) Grand-round presentation - Quichua patients and healers participation; and (6) healers-psychiatrists collaboration. The course includes visits to local hospitals, physicians, traditional healers.  Guest speakers, videos, and fieldtrips to yachactaita (Quichua healers) and doctors practices, visit to medicinal plants market will supplement the lectures, readings, and class discussions.

Each participant will receive a certificate of attendance.

For more information on Otavalo, Ecuador and tips for international travel, please browse Pictures and Useful links listed below.  The Field Guidelines section offers useful recommendations for planning your stay in Otavalo.

For more information please contact:  

Lise Bouchard, Ph.D.
International Seminar Coordinator

The International Summer Seminar is limited in size.  Please secure confirmation of registration before purchasing airline tickets, etc.

REGISTRATION