Preparatory Seminar

Preparatory seminarTraining
Date/Time:
at - at
Location:
Algarve, Portugal (location to be announced upon admission to the seminar)
Calendar:
IST (EN)
1. Objective
This seminar aims to provide those interested in training as an IST SUT practitioner with a clear basis for deciding what to expect—and what not to expect—from the training.

2. Content

The seminar comprises two sessions involving different substances used in SUT, as well as the preparatory and integration phases that IST research has shown to be beneficial for the SUT process. These phases generally involve group sharings. A day for integration and rest is scheduled between the sessions.

3. Framework
The group size ranges from eight to twelve participants.

4. Prerequisites for Participation
Participants must be in good physical health and are required to inform the trainers of any relevant health issues—particularly heart conditions—prior to the start of the training.
Ongoing psychotherapy is not grounds for exclusion; however, trainers must be informed about the treatment and the reasons for it (specific details are not required).
Psychotic or borderline tendencies, in particular, can interfere with the practical work process. Any symptoms of this nature, as well as any psychiatric treatment, must be discussed with the trainers.
Participants must be willing, if necessary, to discontinue the use of psychotropic medication for up to three weeks prior to the start of the seminar. Further details will be discussed between the trainers and the participants.

A detailed preliminary interview with one of the trainers is required before participation is confirmed.

5. Language

If there is a sufficient number of German-speaking participants, the seminar will be conducted in German. Otherwise, it will be held in English. This means that the sessions and group communication will take place in English. German-speaking participants may use German in situations where the group is not involved.

 

6. Timing

From 6:00 PM on February 15, 2027, to no later than 4:00 PM on February 19, 2027.

Those who would like to arrive early, to settle in at their own pace and get into the spirit of the place, are welcome to arrive starting at 2:00 PM.

 

7. Location

The seminar takes place in southern Portugal. Details will be provided once a participant has been accepted for the seminar.

The best way to travel from further afield is via Faro Airport. From there, you can take a taxi for 80 euros or share one with other participants, bringing the cost down to 40 euros.

Accommodation is provided in rooms with two to four beds.

 

8. Costs

8.1. Expenses:

The fee is

• 1,000–1,500 euros, depending on individual financial means. The fee covers training and material costs.
• An additional 500 euros covers meals (largely organic), accommodation (including bed linen and towels), and substances.

8.2. Financial difficulties:

Anyone wishing to participate but lacking the necessary funds is encouraged to contact the organizers. We will find a way. We realize that this can be an uncomfortable situation, potentially involving feelings of shame or a sense of compromised independence. However, this topic can come up during the seminar anyway! It offers an initial opportunity for an exercise. Naturally, this matter will be handled confidentially.

8.3. Payments:

Participation in the seminar requires a deposit of 1,000 euros by December 15, 2026, at the latest. Payment of the deposit guarantees a place in the seminar.

8.4. Cancellation Policy:

In the event of cancellation by December 15, 2026, 100 euros will be refunded. In the event of cancellation by January 15, 2027, the full cost (seminar fee and accommodation/meals) becomes due. Should the vacated place be filled by another participant, 200 euros will be refunded.

The minimum number of participants is eight. Should fewer participants register, or should the trainers be unable to conduct the seminar due to health-related or other significant reasons, the deposit will be refunded in full. Under no circumstances will the trainers refund an amount exceeding the payments already made by participants for the seminar.

 

9. Therapists

The seminar is led by the two chief instructors:

Manuel Aicher (www.manuel-aicher.com) Trained by Friederike Meckel-Fischer, Ralph Metzner, William Emerson, Matthias Varga von Kibéd, and others. Initiated into West African shamanic work and the Bwiti tradition by Bernadette Rebienot (Gabon). 30 years of experience in the field of substance-assisted therapy.

Sabine Schulte Gestalt therapist, orientation analyst, psycho-imaginative trauma therapist, Somatic Experiencing and Soma Embodiment therapist; 22 years as a training instructor at the Institute for Humanistic Psychology (Institut für Humanistische Psychologie) in Eschweiler and over 15 years of experience in the field of substance-assisted therapy.

 

10. Confidentiality

Confidentiality is an essential requirement for the entire seminar and beyond. You are asked not to speak to anyone about another course participant without that participant’s consent.

 

11. Questions and Registration

If you have questions or are interested in this seminar, please contact:

Institut für Substanzunterstützte Therapie
Rotis 7
88299 Leutkirch
Germany

Phone: +49 7561 908 3001
E-Mail: institut@substanzunterstützte-therapie.org

The registration deadline is December 31, 2026. Places are allocated in the order in which registrations are received. As the seminar aims to establish the necessary prerequisites for those interested in the IST training program, priority may be given to individuals who have already confirmed their intention to participate in the training, should demand exceed available places.

If you would like to register or have any questions, please contact us here.