“Psychology from Past to Present” was discussed from many perspectives at the event held on May 10, Psychologists’ Day, in cooperation with Near East University Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of Psychology and Dean of Students. The event, held in Turkish and English at the Grand Library Hall, was attended by intense participation.

At the event, topics including the history of psychology and its evolution until today, basic concepts, leading names and important theories were discussed. In the Turkish session of the all-day event, Psychologist Ülkem Karakaş, Psychiatrist Dr. Zeki Öznaçar, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Meryem Karaaziz, Dr. Bingül Harmancı, Psychologist Bade Yaya, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hande Çelikay took part. In the English session, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ezgi Ulu, Assist. Prof. Dr. Ayşe Buran, Assist. Prof. Dr. Gloria Manyeruke, Psychologist Noora Rahmani and Psychologist Nesrin Cambaz took part with their presentations.

It was moderated by Dr. Fahriye Balkır, lecturer of Near East University, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of Psychology. The opening speech of the event was made by Near East University Faculty of Arts and Sciences Dean Prof. Dr. Ali Efdal Özkul.

Experts from different disciplines covered every aspect of psychology!

In the Turkish session, Psychologist Ülkem Karakaş discussed the birth and development process of psychology. Psychiatrist Dr. Zeki Öznacar examined repetition compulsion in psychoanalytic psychotherapy, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Meryem Karaaziz explained Analytical Psychology and Carl Gustav Jung’s theory. Dr. Bingül Subaşı discussed the applied and experimental areas of contemporary psychology. Psychologist Bade Yaya explained the third generation approaches and therapy processes of cognitive behavioral therapies. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hande Çelikay shared the assumptions, theory and application techniques of Solution Focused Therapy, pioneered by De Shazer and Berg.

Many issues were discussed in bilingual events…

In the session held in English by the Department of English Psychology; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ezgi Ulu discussed innovative approaches in child therapy. Psychologist Noora Rahmani talked about adolescence and the confusions experienced. Assist. Prof. Dr. Ayşe Buran gave information about the use of technology in psychology. Psychologist Nesrin Cambaz explained the common processes and features that affect different disorders. Assist. Prof. Dr. Gloria Manyeruke discussed the pros and cons of using artificial intelligence in psychology. All sessions ended with a question and answer session.

We aimed to offer a broad perspective to our students

Near East University Faculty of Arts and Sciences Turkish Psychology Department Head Assoc. Prof. Dr. Meryem Karaaziz said, “The science of psychology is in a deep effort to understand the complexity of the human mind and the diversity of its behaviors. Psychologists offer support for people’s mental health, emotional well-being and relationships. This helps individuals live healthier and more fulfilling lives while improving the overall well-being of society. With this event we carried out, we aimed to offer our students a broad perspective that will strengthen this understanding.”

Near East University Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Head of English Psychology Department, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ezgi Ulu emphasized that psychologists play an important role in the psychologically healthy development of not only adults but also children and said, “Childhood includes many developmental processes in physical, cognitive, emotional and social areas. In this process, some psychological problems may occur due to genetics, learning or environmental factors. As psychologists, we can help the child cope with his problems with many different therapy methods. Cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, art therapy, animal-assisted therapy are just some of them.”

Prof. Dr. Ali Efdal Özkul: “The need for psychologists should be normalized in society.”

Speaking at the opening of the event, Near East University Faculty of Arts and Sciences Dean Prof. Dr. Ali Efdal Özkul said, “This event is a truly valuable opportunity to emphasize the critical role psychologists play in public health, to discuss the issues they should pay attention to while conducting their profession, and to understand the importance of psychology education.” Prof. Dr. also emphasized that psychologists must comply with a number of important responsibilities while doing their profession. Prof. Dr. Ali Efdal Özkul emphasized professional ethical rules. Stating that patient confidentiality is the most important ethical principle of the psychological treatment process, Prof. Dr. Özkul said “Psychologists must understand the unique needs of each individual and offer a personalized approach to each individual.”

Stating that they provide the necessary environment for psychologist candidates studying at Near East University to gain practical skills as well as theoretical knowledge, Prof. Dr. Ali Efdal Özkul said, “This event was extremely important in terms of bringing together psychologists of future and experienced professionals. I would like to thank all participants who contributed to our event. Happy 10 May Psychologists’ Day.”