Stefan Lechner

Psychosocial Counselor · Skin & Psyche · Coaching & Workshops

Austria

About

I support young people and adults in personal change processes — with empathy, clarity and a systemic approach. As a psychosocial counselor, my work focuses on self-esteem, identity and emotional wellbeing, with a particular interest in the connection between skin and psyche. In my work with SzenenWelten (Wien Work), I supported young people in their transition from school to work, using creative methods to strengthen self-awareness, communication and resilience. This included developing and realising a photography exhibition and a short film project together with participants, creating space for expression, reflection and visibility. In parallel, I am developing my own practice, under my skin, focusing on the psychosocial dimensions of skin — connecting body, emotion and identity. My background in film and cultural projects continues to shape my work today. I integrate creative approaches such as film, photography and movement to support reflection, expression and personal development. Focus areas: Psychosocial Counseling | Skin & Psyche | Youth Work | Self-esteem | Identity | Creative Methods

Experience

  • Psychosocial Counseling · Coaching · Workshops at Stefan Lechner – Psychosoziale Beratung
    Mar 2025 - Present · 1 yr 4 mos

    Psychosocial Counseling · Focus on Skin & Psyche Vienna · Klosterneuburg · Online Deutsch · English · Français · Español · Português www.stefanlechner.eu I work as a psychosocial counsellor, supporting individuals in challenging life situations with a particular focus on the connection between skin and psyche. My work explores how emotional experiences, self-perception and inner tension can express themselves through the body — and how awareness can support change and stability. “Under my skin” reflects this perspective: that what affects us on the surface often has deeper roots, and that meaningful change begins by listening more closely to what is happening within. My work includes: - Psychosocial counseling focusing on skin, emotion and self-image - Supporting self-acceptance and emotional wellbeing - Working with adolescents, young adults and adults - Integrating body awareness and creative approaches

  • Youth Empowerment Coach | Head of Audiovisual Group „next.take“ at Wien Work at Wien Work Integrative Betriebe und AusbildungsgmbH
    Jun 2025 - Mar 2026 · 10 mos

    - Supporting young people (15–18) in transition from school to work - Using film and photography as creative tools for self-reflection and empowerment - Conducting individual coaching, group workshops, and parental counseling - Initiated and curated a photo exhibition

  • Film Production Manager & Post Production Documentary "YANUNI" (shortlisted for Academy Awards 2026) at Malaika Pictures
    Jan 2020 - Sep 2024 · 4 yrs 9 mos

    Malaika Pictures is an international film production company based in Baden, Austria, known for award-winning documentaries such as “Sea of Shadows” (Disney+ / Sundance Audience Award) or “The Ivory Game” (Netflix / Shortlisted for an Academy Award). We see Malaika as “a seed for change” and hope to inspire audiences around the world to take positive action for a better planet. Right now we are working on a feature-documentary focusing on the destruction of the Brazilian rainforest and the courageous indigenous women fighting to preserve it.

  • WU Alumni Hub Relations at Vienna University of Economics and Business Administration
    Oct 2020 - Jul 2021 · 10 mos

    Support of 60 regional and international WU Alumni Hubs and Hub managers. Strategic conception as well as further development of Hub networks world-wide. For more information on WU's network of over 55.000 alumni world-wide: https://www.wu-alumni.at/en/network/wu-alumni-hubs/

  • Film & Cultural Projects at Self-employed
    Mar 2007 - Jan 2020 · 12 yrs 11 mos

    Director & Producer (2009–2020) Led and produced international film projects with a strong focus on social themes and participatory formats. Created and facilitated workshops for young people using film, photography and movement as tools for self-expression and empowerment. Worked with NGOs (Fairtrade, FSC, Horizont3000, VIDA NUEVA) on projects combining storytelling and social engagement. This work continues to inform my approach today — particularly in working with identity, self-perception and personal development. Last award-winning feature-length movie as a director: "VADIO – I am not a poet" (96 minutes - 2018)