Changing challenges into chances, an international collaboration in facing the future challenges of the mental health care psychologist

Introduction
In 2022, a tradition of knowledge exchange began between Portuguese and Dutch mental health care professionals, emphasizing the importance of continuous international attention to clinical practices exchange and research organization.

Method
On April 12th, 2024, an online symposium took place, organized in collaboration with institutions from both countries, featuring keynote speakers and small group discussions. Participants were invited through various channels, and accreditation for the purpose of optimizing the knowledge of the profession was obtained from relevant healthcare organizations.

Results
63 participants subscribed, with 50 joining the symposium. Presentations covered topics such as Autonomy-Connectedness in Eating Disorders, Internet-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Flexible Assertive Community Treatment (FACT). Breakout discussions focused on turning challenges into opportunities and exploring the pros and cons of online treatment. Participants identified common challenges in Portuguese and Dutch mental healthcare and debated the effectiveness of online therapy.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance
The symposium showcased successful international collaboration and highlighted the importance of pooling knowledge and resources to address common international challenges in mental healthcare. Collaborative efforts between professionals from different countries hold promise for more uniformity and improving future innovative and creative solutions and outcomes in mental health treatment.