University of Duhok Hosts Groundbreaking 4th International Conference on Psychology and Psychotherapy

Duhok, Iraq - November 2024

The 4th International Conference on Psychology and Psychotherapy took place from November 2–4, 2024, at the University of Duhok. This prestigious event brought together leading academics, researchers, practitioners, and educators from across the globe under the theme, “Together in Hope.” The conference served as a vital platform for addressing mental health challenges in conflict and post-conflict regions, fostering collaboration between global and local approaches.

Organized by the Institute of Psychotherapy and Psychotraumatology (IPP) at the University of Duhok in collaboration with the Institute of Transcultural Health Science (Germany) and the Civil Peace Service of GIZ, the conference aimed to bridge the gap between research and practice. It showcased innovative interventions and strategies to tackle pressing mental health issues.

Highlights of the Conference

• Key Themes: Discussions ranged from trauma recovery, psychosocial support, and psychotherapy to topics like gender perspectives, addiction interventions, and the transgenerational impact of trauma.
• Prominent Speakers: Esteemed professionals, including Prof. Dr. Jan Ilhan Kizilhan (DHBW University), Prof. Dr. Thomas Wenzel (University Hospital Vienna), and Dr. Hanna Kienzler (King's College London), presented groundbreaking research and case studies.
• Field Visits: Attendees toured refugee camps and the Yazidi holy temple in Lalish, gaining firsthand insights into the challenges faced by displaced communities.
• Collaborative Panels: Lively discussions on issues such as the future of child mental health, interdisciplinary rehabilitation, and the integration of mental health into broader healthcare frameworks enriched the agenda.

Dr. Dawood Atrushi, President of the University of Duhok, opened the conference alongside high-level representatives from the German Consulate, local government, and international organizations. The event emphasized the importance of culturally sensitive approaches to psychotherapy and the critical role of interdisciplinary interventions in healing trauma in conflict zones.

The conference concluded with actionable recommendations, including the development of sustainable rehabilitation models, advocacy for legislative support in mental health, and the promotion of international collaborations to enhance mental health services globally.

For more information, visit the official conference website or contact the University of Duhok's Institute of Psychotherapy and Psychotraumatology.

Together, we shape the future of mental health and work toward a brighter, more resilient world.