Location

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Program Description

This 15-day, faculty-led study abroad program in Chiang Mai, Thailand, offers a three-credit course designed for advanced undergraduate and graduate students in counseling, psychology, education, healthcare, and related human service fields. The course focuses on culturally responsive assessment and contemplative psychology, with a special emphasis on Buddhist Psychology and mindfulness-based practices.

Students will explore how Thai culture supports mental health and well-being through both traditional and modern approaches. The program includes visits to local counseling centers, a psychiatric hospital, addiction treatment facilities, and schools, where students will engage with Thai professionals and observe culturally grounded therapeutic practices. Additional academic experiences include a visit to Chiang Mai University’s Psychology Department, a school-based English and Well-being Camp, and presentations on the role of religion in mental health.

Cultural immersion is a key component of the program. Students will participate in a Thai cooking class, a mini-Muay Thai session, and excursions to historic temples such as Doi Suthep Temple and Wat Umong. A full-day visit to an ethical elephant sanctuary and exploration of local markets and a Hmong hilltribe village further enrich the experience.

Students will be required to attend synchronous, virtual course days during the week following the end of the spring semester to complete academic components and integrate their learning. This interdisciplinary course is designed for advanced undergraduate and graduate students in the helping professions, including counseling, psychology, education, healthcare, and human services, as well as those with an interest in assessment and quantitative methods.

Central to the course is the study of Contemplative Psychology, with a particular emphasis on Buddhist Psychology and mindfulness-based approaches. Students will examine how Thai society addresses mental health and well-being through both traditional and contemporary frameworks, gaining insight into the intersection of culture, spirituality, and therapeutic practice. Through a dynamic blend of lectures, workshops, site visits, and experiential learning, students will engage with local professionals, community organizations, and educational institutions. This hands-on approach will equip participants with practical skills and culturally informed perspectives that can be applied in diverse professional contexts.

This program is ideal for students seeking to deepen their understanding of global mental health practices, develop cross-cultural competencies, and apply contemplative and assessment-based approaches in diverse professional settings.

Location Description

The program is based in Chiang Mai, a vibrant city in northern Thailand known for its rich cultural heritage, serene mountain landscapes, and deep-rooted spiritual traditions. Once the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Mai is home to hundreds of Buddhist temples, bustling markets, and a thriving community of artists, educators, and wellness practitioners.

Director

Brian Leventhal | leventbc@jmu.edu | Graduate Psychology

Michele Kielty | kieltyml@jmu.edu | Graduate Psychology

Robin Anderson | ander2rd@jmu.edu | Graduate Psychology

Accommodations

Students will be housed in shared double rooms at a centrally located 3-star hotel in Chiang Mai. The hotel is within walking distance of Chiang Mai’s historic Old City, temples, markets, and restaurants, offering students convenient access to cultural sites and local amenities. Public transportation and ride services are readily available for exploring the surrounding area.

Most meals will be provided as part of the program. Students will receive breakfast daily at the hotel, along with lunch and dinner on most program days. On designated free days (weekends) students will have the opportunity to explore Chiang Mai’s vibrant food scene independently. During these times, students should plan to cover the cost of any additional meals on their own.

Additional Items to Consider

Passport & Visa: A valid passport is required for travel to Thailand. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays under 30 days; however, students of other nationalities should check visa requirements well in advance.

Cultural Expectations: Respect for Thai customs, religious practices, and dress codes—especially when visiting temples and schools—is essential. These topics will be covered in detail during the pre-departure orientation and on-site cultural briefing.

Spending Money: While most meals and activities are included, students should budget for personal expenses, souvenirs, and meals during free time.

Some coursework will be completed prior to departure.

Applicant Criteria

Applicants must have a GPA minimum of 2.0.

Open to sophomores, juniors, seniors and graduate students in all majors. Open to non-JMU students.