In 2025, the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland (FHNW) is offering a continuing education course that deals specifically with the challenges of counseling and supporting people affected by Long COVID and ME/CFS. This modular online continuing education program is aimed at professionals who want to deal with the topic comprehensively and offers a sound scientific basis as well as practice-oriented approaches.
Long COVID and ME/CFS pose a particular challenge for healthcare professionals. There are no causal therapies and known approaches often must be adapted. This seminar not only imparts knowledge but also offers space for a practical exchange of experiences. It helps professionals to support those affected appropriately and improve their quality of life in the long term.
The specialist seminar is aimed at professionals from various fields, including:
- Social work and education: teachers, school administrators, and social workers.
- Healthcare: Spitex employees, doctors, psychologists, and occupational therapists.
- Legal and advisory services: case managers, IV and KESB specialists.
- Pastoral care and related professions.
- People who are affected themselves and want to gain a deeper understanding of their situation.
Contents and structure of the training
The program is led by Prof. Dr. Cornelia Rüegger, an expert in social diagnostics and health-related social work and is supplemented by other specialists.
The training course consists of four coordinated modules. While the first module provides the foundation as a compulsory module, the other modules can be chosen individually according to interest.
- Module 1: Medical basics and energy management (pacing).
This module focuses on the scientific basis of Long COVID and ME/CFS. Speaker Dr. Maja Strasser, neurologist and co-author of the D-A-CH consensus statement, offers insights into symptom-oriented treatment approaches and practical tips on pacing. - Module 2: Psychological-psychotherapeutic perspective and social dimension. Natascha Vitas highlights psychological aspects with topics such as coping with illness and resilience. Prof. Dr. Cornelia Rüegger focuses on the social consequences of the illness and provides practical tips for psycho-social counseling, including work integration.
- Module 3: Social insurance law perspective and outpatient care.
Sebastian Lorentz, lawyer, provides insights into Long COVID from a legal perspective, while Nicole Spillmann discusses the role of outpatient care. - Module 4: Children and young people with Long COVID and ME/CFS.
Vanessa Kleeb and Nadine Herren discuss challenges and solutions in working with affected young people and their families.
Dates and registration
The modules take place online on Thursdays between 3:30 and 5:30 pm:
- Module 1: March 13, 2025
- Module 2: March 20, 2025
- Module 3: March 27, 2025
- Module 4: April 3, 2025
The participation fee is CHF 90.00 per module, and registration is possible online until January 31, 2024: Registration link.
Take the opportunity to expand your knowledge and prepare yourself for one of the most pressing health challenges of our time.
