Issues of theoretical and applied psychology on agenda of international conference held at YSU

Within the framework of the conference, renowned psychologists from around the world have come together to raise awareness among professionals about the current challenges in contemporary psychology. The event aims to facilitate the exchange of experience among representatives of psychological schools from various countries and to expand both professional and collaborative networks. The three-day conference will feature panel sessions, seminars, presentations, and poster reports. 

YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan, emphasizing the importance of hosting conferences at YSU, noted that this is the sixth international conference held at the university this week. In this context, he underscored that YSU has become a major platform for international conferences and diverse scholarly discussions. 

"This milestone event reflects a decade of meaningful collaboration, intellectual exchange, and unwavering dedication to the advancement of psychological science. The conference provides an exceptional and valuable opportunity for young psychologists and university students to engage with applied methods and real-world expertise. Bridging the gap between theory and practice remains one of the most important missions in the education and development of future specialists," the rector stated. 

Professor Hrant Avanesyan, Head of the Chair of General Psychology at YSU Faculty of Philosophy and Psychology, noted that the first conference took place in 2007, and since then it has become a wonderful tradition.

"Every year, this conference brings together psychologists from different fields to discuss new ideas, research results, and practical achievements. It is a great honor for us to host distinguished scholars and practitioners from several countries, who are here to share their experience and knowledge. Together, we continue to build a bridge between young psychologists, the scientific community, and leading experts," the professor said.  

Deputy Minister of Health of the Republic of Armenia, Armen Gasparyan, emphasized the ministry’s strong commitment to mental health issues. He noted that consistent steps are being taken to improve access to and quality of mental health services.

Presenting the work carried out by the Ministry of Health on regulating the provision of psychological services, he added, "Within the framework of ongoing and upcoming pilot projects, psychologists will be involved in work teams. This initiative will not only contribute to the development of psychological services but also enable their integration into primary healthcare, which we are confident will have a positive impact on the population." He also highlighted legislative initiatives aimed at supporting these efforts.

Harold Takushyan, psychologist, scholar, and professor at Fordham University (USA), emphasized the conference’s role as a platform for international cooperation, experience exchange, and scientific dialogue. He also underscored the active participation of diaspora Armenian professionals in the global development of psychology. 

"There are many leading specialists of Armenian origin in the field of psychology within the Armenian diaspora. This is evidenced by the fact that Armenians head more than half of the 54 divisions of the American Psychological Association," he noted.

During the conference, the Armenian Behavioral Science Association in the USA awarded medals to Elina Asriyan, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs at YSU; Viktor Alakhverdov, Professor at Saint Petersburg State University (Russia); Srbuhi Gevorgyan, Rector of Khachatur Abovyan Armenian State Pedagogical University; and Doctor, Professor Sedrak Sedrakyan, Rector of Urartu University, in recognition of their significant contributions to the field.

The "Ambassador of Armenian Psychology" medals were presented to Viktor Alakhverdov and Harold Takushyan, who had also significantly contributed to the organization of the conference.

The conference was organized through the joint efforts of YSU Chair of General Psychology, the YSU Psychology Research Center, and the "Union of Psychologists of Armenia" Professional NGO.