Peter Henningsen

Prof. Peter Henningsen is a Professor of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), holding the prestigious position of Chair in this field since 2005. He previously served as Dean of the TUM School of Medicine from 2010 to 2019 and as Vice Dean from 2006. His academic journey includes studies in medicine across Stuttgart-Hohenheim, Freiburg, Berlin, and Cambridge (UK), followed by specialization in neurology and psychosomatic medicine. He completed his habilitation in Heidelberg in 2002.

Prof. Henningsen’s research focuses on persistent physical symptoms without clear organic causes, including somatoform and functional disorders. He coordinates studies on diagnostic approaches, neurophysiological mechanisms, and therapeutic interventions. He is actively involved in healthcare policy, serving on the German Council of Science and Humanities Medical Committee and leading national initiatives in psychosomatic medicine.

His key contributions include advancing understanding of the neurophysiological basis of bodily complaints and advocating for integrated biopsychosocial care models. Awards include the Hans Roemer Prize (2012) and DKV Cochrane Prize (2000). He has authored influential publications in Lancet and Psychosomatic Medicine, emphasizing translational research and clinical implications.

Prof. Henningsen’s academic leadership extends to educational innovation, such as evaluating flipped classroom methods in medical education. He collaborates internationally, contributing to guidelines like the S3 Guideline on Functional Body Complaints and the German National Depression Guideline for Primary Care.