About Me

My Path to Psychotherapy

DSA Irene Penz MSc

I am DSA Irene Penz MSc, born in 1968, a systemic psychotherapist in Vienna. With over 25 years of experience in the psychosocial field, I accompany people on their path to greater wellbeing. Therapy sessions are also available in English.

My Story

My journey began in 1989 at the Sozialakademie Wien, which I completed with distinction in 1992. The following years took me through hospital social work, addiction counseling at the Blaues Kreuz, and work with people experiencing mental illness – experiences that shaped my foundation as a therapist.

Alongside my practical work, I have continuously expanded my training: systemic psychotherapy training, a Master of Science at Donau-Universität Krems, and specializations in Imago couples therapy, EMDR, and Brainspotting are the cornerstones of my therapeutic competence.

Since 2004, I have been working in my own practice, accompanying individuals, couples and families. Each therapy is unique – just as each person is unique. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey.

"Fruits ripen through the sun, people through love."

My Approach

Every Person is Unique

I strive to engage with each person individually and remain curious and open. My diverse training allows me to work with different methods – including creative techniques and body work – to address your concerns.

Warmth as the Foundation

Alongside expertise and methods, respectful, empathetic and warm contact is the highest priority. This is the foundation for our successful work together.

A Holistic View of the Person

With over 25 years of experience in the psychosocial field, I view my work as enriching and responsible. I follow a holistic understanding of the person, incorporating body, soul and spirit into therapeutic work.

The Person in Their Environment

As a systemic psychotherapist, I always consider you in the context of your relationships and reference systems. Change emerges in interaction with your environment.

Qualifications & Training

  • Diploma in Social Work (Sozialakademie Wien), 1992 – with distinction
  • Systemic Psychotherapy – Lehranstalt für Familientherapie, Vienna
  • Integrative Movement and Body Therapy (ÖGIT)
  • Creative Dance (Laban method)
  • BTS (CLS) Training
  • Leisure Pedagogy and Animation
  • Crisis Intervention (NÖGUS)
  • Systemic Health Coach (Organos, Linz)
  • Addiction Counseling (Blaues Kreuz)
  • Master of Science (MSc) – Psychosocial Counseling, Donau-Universität Krems, 2006
  • Imago Relationship Therapist
  • Trauma Therapy / EMDR
  • Familylab Seminar Leader (2013)
  • Brainspotting (2015)

Memberships

  • Austrian Federal Association for Psychotherapy (ÖBVP)
  • ÖAGG - Austrian Working Group for Group Therapy and Group Dynamics

Career History

  1. 1986–1988
    Studies at the University of Vienna: Ethnology and African Studies
  2. 1988
    Extended stay in Tanzania, East Africa
  3. 1989–1992
    Sozialakademie Wien – Diploma with distinction
  4. 1992–1998
    Hospital social work and nursing home
  5. 1998–2000
    Head of addiction counseling center for alcoholism, Blaues Kreuz
  6. 2000–2002
    Work assistance for people with mental illness; start of private practice
  7. 2003–2004
    Day facility for people with mental illness (Regenbogenhaus); private practice
  8. since 2004
    Gambling addiction counseling center; private practice
  9. 2006
    Master of Science (MSc), Donau-Universität Krems

Personal

Outside of my therapeutic work, I enjoy spending time in nature, reading and enjoying Vienna's cultural offerings. This balance between work and private life is important to me – also for my clients.

Get to Know Me

In a non-binding initial consultation, we can find out together if I am the right therapist for you. No risk, no obligation.

Request a consultation