Experience the perfect blend of international travel, cultural immersion, and professional development on this unforgettable journey through Portugal and Spain. Designed for students interested in healthcare, rehabilitation, psychology, speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and related disciplines, this program offers a unique opportunity to explore how healthcare and education are delivered across cultures while discovering two of Europe's most captivating countries.

Throughout the program, you'll visit leading rehabilitation and healthcare organizations, such as ESSAICOITÃO, Speechcare Center, and ISEP Madrid, where you'll gain insight into international clinical practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovative approaches to patient care. Outside the clinical setting, you'll experience the rich history, architecture, and traditions of the Iberian Peninsula—from the colorful streets of Lisbon and the fairytale palaces of Sintra to the medieval cities of Segovia and Toledo, all while enjoying authentic cuisine, a live flamenco performance, and breathtaking coastal scenery.

Whether you're preparing for a future career in healthcare or simply looking to broaden your global perspective, this program will strengthen your cultural competence, expand your understanding of international healthcare systems, and provide meaningful experiences that will enhance both your academic and professional journey.

A note from our Founder: Therapy Abroad aims to provide more than just a study abroad program. Our goal is to support academic excellence and experiential education by offering custom program experiences relevant to students in their chosen field of study, along with opportunities for faculty involvement and research collaborations.    

-Dr. Jessica Brown, PhD., CCC-SLP, MT-BC

Upcoming Programs & How To Book

You can book this 9-day trip for the following dates:

• January 3, 2027

• March 13, 2027

• July 21, 2027

• July 31, 2027

Please note this does not include travel days en-route. This is the first day in-country.

To book your spot, simply find the green "Book Now" button on this page, select the date you wish to travel with us, and put down your deposit. It's as simple as that!

Undergraduate students, recent graduates, graduate students, and post-bacc students. This award-winning program was designed to give every student the opportunity to learn about rehabilitation, health sciences, and global health around the world!

No other program combines group travel, study abroad, and hands-on professional development exclusively for CSD, SLP, audiology, PT, OT, music therapy, and related fields.

Global Health & Rehabilitation Sciences

• Compare and contrast international approaches to therapeutic education and clinical practice in Portugal and Spain, focusing on speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and nutrition.

• Gain insight into diverse healthcare education systems through structured visits to institutions such as ESSAlcoitão and ISEP Madrid.

• Explore the role of language, culture, and community in healthcare delivery, particularly in multilingual and cross-cultural settings.

Intercultural Competence

• Develop cultural awareness and sensitivity by engaging with local professionals, students, and communities in two distinct regions of the world.

• Examine how cultural values, traditions, and histories shape health behaviors and therapeutic practices.

• Practice respectful communication and adaptability in a range of social and academic interactions abroad.

Cultural and Historical Literacy

• Analyze the historical and socio-political influences on public health, education, and urban development through site visits to landmarks.

• Reflect on the legacy of colonization, migration, and globalization in shaping the identities and infrastructures of Portugal and Spain.

Personal and Professional Growth

• Demonstrate increased confidence and independence through international travel, group collaboration, and immersion in unfamiliar environments.

• Strengthen reflective and critical thinking skills by engaging in group discussions, site debriefs, and journaling activities related to health and culture.

• Build meaningful global connections with peers, mentors, and institutions that can support future academic or career pathways.

🇵🇹 Portugal, located on the Iberian Peninsula, has a rich maritime history and was once one of the world's leading colonial powers during the Age of Exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries. Portuguese explorers like Vasco da Gama opened up sea routes to Africa, Asia, and South America, shaping global trade and cultural exchange. Today, Portugal has a population of about 10.2 million people. Its culture is deeply influenced by its seafaring past, traditional Fado music, and strong ties to Roman Catholicism, the dominant religion practiced by the majority of the population.

🇪🇸 Spain boasts a complex history marked by Roman conquest, centuries of Islamic rule, and the Catholic Reconquista. It later became a powerful empire in the 16th century, colonizing large parts of the Americas. Spain’s regions, such as Catalonia, the Basque Country, and Andalusia, contribute to its cultural diversity. Today, Spain has a population of about 48 million. The country is predominantly Roman Catholic, though it is increasingly secular. Spanish culture is known for flamenco music, bullfighting, vibrant festivals, and a deep appreciation for art, literature, and cuisine.

Safety is our top priority, and we take a hands-on approach to ensure every aspect of your experience is secure. Every location, accommodation, and activity is personally vetted by Therapy Abroad directors. From departure to return, we provide a seamless, worry-free experience. You’ll always be part of a group led by experienced facilitators—never outsourced staff. Our team ensures access to medical care, clean food and water, and reliable communication at all times.

Here are some links to our website that are worth exploring:

• Explore TherapyAbroad.org

• Our mission at Therapy Abroad

• Meet our team

• Why travel with us

• Read student and staff reviews

• FAQ

The itinerary on this page is provided as a sample to help guide the next steps in the planning process. Our team at Therapy Abroad will work closely with you to customize an itinerary that aligns with the academic goals and requirements of your institution.

Welcome to Portugal! Upon arrival in Lisbon, you'll transfer to your hotel. Depending on your flight time, spend the afternoon discovering Portugal's vibrant capital on a guided panoramic city tour, visiting iconic landmarks including Praça Marquês de Pombal, Avenida da Liberdade, Rossio Square, the historic Baixa district, Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the Monument to the Discoveries. This introduction provides an excellent overview of Lisbon's rich history, architecture, and maritime heritage before enjoying dinner and settling in for the evening.

After breakfast, experience Lisbon on foot as you explore the charming neighborhoods of Bairro Alto and Alfama. Walk through narrow cobblestone streets while taking in panoramic viewpoints overlooking the city, visit the exterior of Lisbon Cathedral, and learn about the city's centuries-old history and culture. Following lunch, return to the hotel for some free time before gathering for dinner. You may choose to head to the beaches or explore the town in small groups.

Today's full-day excursion takes you beyond Lisbon to some of Portugal's most breathtaking destinations. Wander through the fairytale town of Sintra and tour the magnificent Quinta da Regaleira Palace, known for its mysterious gardens and famous Initiation Well. Continue to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe, before visiting the picturesque coastal towns of Cascais and Estoril.

As part of your educational and cultural experience, you’ll visit the Escola Superior de Saúde do Alcoitão (ESSALCOITÃO)—Portugal’s premier institution for rehabilitation sciences. Located near the scenic coastal town of Estoril, this school is known for its pioneering programs in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech and language therapy. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about their curriculum, explore modern training facilities, and gain insight into the integration of clinical practice with academic instruction. This visit offers a valuable exchange of ideas and highlights international approaches to health and therapeutic education.

Discover the Setúbal Peninsula as you explore the charming villages of Azeitão and Palmela. Learn about traditional Portuguese food production with a visit to either a local cheese factory or pastry maker, followed by lunch featuring regional cuisine.

The afternoon includes a visit to the Speechcare Center or similar site, offering students an opportunity to observe speech and rehabilitation services while comparing clinical practices across cultures. Return to Lisbon with free time to explore before dinner.

After breakfast, travel to the airport for your flight to Madrid, Spain. Following hotel check-in and lunch, immerse yourself in Spanish culture during an unforgettable evening of flamenco, featuring a live performance, traditional dinner, and an introductory flamenco lesson. This cultural experience offers a vibrant introduction to one of Spain's most celebrated artistic traditions.

Discover the vibrant heart of Madrid on a guided walking tour that brings the city’s rich history and lively spirit to life. Begin at Plaza de Oriente, a stately square flanked by gardens and sculptures of Spanish monarchs, offering impressive views of the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Spanish royal family. As you walk through the surrounding historic district, your guide will share stories that trace the evolution of Madrid from a medieval fortress to a modern European capital.

Stroll down the iconic Gran Vía, often referred to as the “Spanish Broadway,” known for its grand architecture, stylish boutiques, and energetic atmosphere. Continue to Puerta del Sol, the symbolic center of Spain—both geographically and culturally. This lively square is home to the famous clock tower that rings in the New Year, the statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree (El Oso y el Madroño), and Kilometer Zero, the point from which all distances in Spain are measured. Your tour concludes at the legendary Plaza Mayor, one of the most iconic squares in Europe.

This afternoon you'll visit Institutio Superior de Estudios Psicológicos (ISEP) in Madrid, a private institution founded in 1982 and recognized for its comprehensive and practical focus in clinical psychology, neuropsychology, education, and speech therapy. With more than 40 years of experience educating over 35,000 professionals in Spain and Latin America, ISEP is a multi-campus institution with major centers in Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia.

ISEP combines training, clinical intervention, and educational outreach, offering professional master’s and postgraduate programs, supported by its clinical services (ISEP Clínic) and specialized publications (ISEP Editorial). Their methodology prioritizes hands-on clinical practice, with students engaging in mandatory internships and practical sessions alongside theoretical coursework. The Madrid campus is well-equipped to support these activities, and the presence of distinguished faculty and an international student body enriches the learning environment

This visit provides a unique opportunity to explore ISEP’s approach to therapy training within an applied psychology framework, gaining insight into clinical pedagogies, student-to-practitioner transitions, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Travel to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Segovia for a full day of history and exploration. Marvel at the remarkably preserved Roman Aqueduct, stroll through the medieval Old Town, visit the magnificent Gothic cathedral, and tour the iconic Alcázar Fortress, whose striking architecture inspired many famous castles. Enjoy free time to explore the city's charming streets before returning to Madrid for dinner.

Spend your final full day exploring Toledo, one of Spain's most historically significant cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through centuries of history as you visit Toledo Cathedral, the Alcázar Fortress, the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, and the Church of Santo Tomé, home to El Greco's masterpiece The Burial of the Count of Orgaz.

Continue through the city's historic Jewish Quarter, visit its synagogue and mosque, and conclude the day with panoramic views from Mirador del Valle before returning to Madrid for your final evening.

Enjoy a final breakfast in the heart of Madrid before transferring to Madrid-Barajas International Airport for your flight. As you prepare to head home, take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed—spanning three countries, multiple languages, and a wealth of cultural experiences.

From the historic quarters of Lisbon to the artistic elegance of Madrid, you’ve explored diverse regions and deepened your global perspective.

This program has not only offered academic enrichment through visits to esteemed institutions but also fostered personal and professional growth through immersive, firsthand learning. Return home inspired, enriched, and empowered by the connections you've made and the stories you'll carry forward.

Everything is included in your program tuition! There are no surprise costs, no hidden “optional activities,” and no upselling. Your tuition covers all flights, activities, materials, meals, and housing so you can focus on learning, exploring, and making the most of your time abroad without worrying about extra expenses.

The total tuition is $4,750:

• Non-refundable deposit: $250 (due at booking)

• Remaining balance split into 3 payments

And if you’re worried about payments, we’ve got options to help:

• Explore our Fundraising Guide with strategies and resources.

• Use our new built-in Contribution Page feature—just like GoFundMe, but directly linked to your program's tuition balance! So each time someone donates, you automatically owe less on your next payment.

• To save on extra processing fees, we recommend making your payment by ACH (direct bank transfer).

• Need more flexibility? We can help customize a payment plan that works for you—just ask!

We recommend that students bring about $300 as pocket money for souvenirs any extra snacks they want.

If you choose to cancel, we will hold onto your initial deposit for you to use on a future Therapy Abroad trip. This deposit is not transferable to another person. Refund percentages include the non-refundable deposit:

• 100% refund for cancellations made 90+ days before departure.

• 75% refund for cancellations made 90–60 days before departure.

• 50% refund for cancellations made 59-46 days before departure.

• 0% refund for cancellations made within 45 days of departure.

These countries are amazing places filled with rich history, excellent food and warm generous people. You will stay in hotel accommodations with communal areas to relax and hang out, meeting rooms for group discussions or presentations, and comfortable rooms for getting shut-eye. You will share a room with 1-2 other students and all rooms have private bathrooms and individual beds.

Every day you will have access to Wifi, fresh drinking water, western style toilets and showers. Meals will be a combination of local and Western cuisine. We have a 100% guarantee that you will have plenty of amazing food! We can cater to specific dietary needs as long as you let us know ahead of time.

The warmth and hospitality of the people and culture will make you feel at home in no time!

The total program cost does not include international airfare. Therapy Abroad organizes a chaperoned flight. You can find out more information about flights and how they work here. Most students choose to travel on the chaperoned flight, though we have flexibility for those who cannot or choose not to.