Prof. Dr. med. F. Kehl

From 1984 to 1990, I pursued my medical studies at Johann Wolfgang Goethe University in Frankfurt a.M. After one semester, I also embarked on a dual degree in philosophy. My academic curiosity was deeply rooted in exploring the intricate mechanisms and processes that govern the human body, mind, and brain. In the field of neuroanatomy, I had the privilege of working under Prof. Dr. Heiko Braak, a distinguished senior professor and arguably the world's foremost authority on Alzheimer's disease. He entrusted me with my own brain specimen, and I was profoundly captivated by the beauty of the brain, particularly the Ammon’s horn, the locus of memory. My academic journey was further enriched by a strong interest in psychological and psychiatric disciplines. This led to engaging exchanges and opportunities to delve into medical sociology, psychosomatics as taught by Prof. Dr. Gerd Overbeck, and psychodynamics under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Stavros Mentzos. I found myself deeply absorbed in Balint groups, advanced seminars on psychosomatics and group therapy, and biostatistics. As my interest in the mind-body connection matured, it guided me to physiology with Prof. Dr. Wolf Singer, Director of the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, where I completed my doctoral thesis. Within the realm of philosophy, I attended lectures by Jürgen Habermas, Hans-Otto Apel, and John Searle, immersing myself in the works of Karl R. Popper, who together shaped the core of my philosophical foundation. I was fortunate to personally meet several pioneers in various psychotherapeutic approaches, including Paul Watzlawick, John Beck, Albert R. Ellis, Viktor Frankl, and Stavros Mentzos. During the 1980s and 1990s, I attended seminars with Anthony Robbins, whose influence has since grown significantly in Germany. Additionally, I completed a course in EMDR trauma therapy, a technique pioneered by Shapiro. One of my fondest memories remains the moment when, as a young physician, I had the honor of assisting Irvin Yalom after a brilliant lecture by prescribing him medication for a headache.

My tenures at some of the world’s most prestigious institutions afforded me the opportunity to engage with a diverse array of students, physicians, scientists, lab technicians, patients, colleagues, senior consultants, and directors. These interactions, coupled with numerous personal dialogues, allowed me to keenly observe and consider the psychological conditions essential for success. Throughout, I consistently provided guidance for career advancement and proudly supported my doctoral and postdoctoral candidates in achieving leadership roles. This rich tapestry of experiences forms the foundation of my consulting practice, dedicated to fostering the personal and professional growth of my clients.