Master in Mental Health Physiotherapy
Basic Body Awareness Methodology (BBAM)
60 ECTS-postgraduate hybrid program, Almeria University, Spain
An international Master program
In today's world, many people suffer from long-term physical pain and mental health challenges. Our society needs qualified physiotherapists who have the right competence and skills to support these persons in a professional way. This clinical Master shows you concretely how to meet those needs implementing the Basic Body Awareness Methodology (BBAM).
This physiotherapy approach focuses on the whole moving person to promote movement quality through movement awareness learning, using everyday movements such as lying, sitting, standing, relating to others, and walking. These small, simple, gentle, and safe movements are designed to enhance both stability and flexibility while being understood through a four-perspective view of human movement encompassing the physical, physiological, psychosocial-cultural, and existential dimensions.
This official study program, BBAM, have a long history that started more than 20 years ago in Bergen at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences. Since then, more than 200 physiotherapists from 35 countries have graduated and gained professional clinical competence in BBAT.
Our history & global impact
The BBAM program has a rich history of academic excellence and international collaboration:
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Established in 2003: The program began as an international university post-graduate study at Bergen University College (now Western Norway University of Applied Sciences - HVL) in Bergen, Norway.
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A Growing Global Network: Since its inception, more than 200 physiotherapists from 35 countries across several continents, including Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas, have graduated from the program.
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Clinical Excellence: Graduates earn Clinical Competence in Basic Body Awareness Therapy (BBAT), becoming recognized "BBAT Physiotherapists" within a global community.
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The program is led and taught by BBAT teachers, with pedagogic competence in BBAT, recognised by the International Association of Teachers in BBAT (IATBBAT).
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From Norway to Spain: In 2018, the program headquarters moved to the University of Almería, where it continues to evolve.
Key dates for 2028 edition
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February 2027: 📝 Applications Open. Early application is recommended as places are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
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September – October 2027: 🎓 Official Registration at the University of Almería.
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January 2028: 🏁 Program Starts. Launch of the 60 ECTS academic journey.
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June 2028: ✈️ Study week in Almería, Spain. Intensive "floor work" and clinical practice at the UAL Campus.
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December 2028: 🎓 Official Closing. Completion of the Master Thesis.
Program Structure (Hybrid Model) 💻📍
Designed for working professionals, this program uses a flexible hybrid format.
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Module 1: Health, Physiotherapy & Society (15 ECTS)
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Salutogenesis, psychiatric diseases, and movement science.
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Module 2: BBAM Methodology (30 ECTS)
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BBAT evaluation tools, BBAT individual and group therapy, including therapeutic factors.
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Module 3: Evidence-Based BBAT Clinical Practice (15 ECTS)
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Research methodology, communication, BBAT clinical implementation, and BBAT Master Thesis.
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Clinical & personal requirements
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Clinical practice: From February to November, you will complete 150 hours of supervised practice in your own clinical environment.
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Personal training: 150 hours of self-experience in BBAT movements to embody the methodology.
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Expert mentorship: Receive clinical supervision from your BBAT teacher.
University fees and enrollment
We provide you with all the tools and personal support you need to become a physiotherapist with clinical competence in BBAT. The University tuition of 2,850 € covers the entire 60 ECTS program and includes:
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📚 Complete library: Access to over 1,700 pages of mandatory literature and specialized references.
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📖 Official clinical booklets: You will receive the official manuals for implementing BBAT and the BARS-MQE evaluation tool in your daily clinical practice.
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🎬 Exclusive training films: Gain access to professional documentary and tutorial films that guide you through clinical implementation and movement quality.
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💻 Live online learning: Participate in interactive digital blocks and seminars featuring live movement and "floor work" sessions. All sessions are recorded so you can review the contents throughout the year.
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🤝 Individual mentorship: You are not alone in your learning. You will receive individual clinical supervision from a qualified BBAT teacher, plus continuous personal feedback on your written assignments and clinical progress.
Want to join?
For inquiries and detailed application instructions, contact us:
📧 dcatalan@ual.es / rll040@ual.es
🌐 Official Website from Almeria University: 2026 edition
Location: University of Almería (UAL), South Coast of Spain 🌞
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