The 4th National ETU Psychology Student Summit, organized by the Psychology Club of
Erzurum Technical University (ETU), was successfully held.
The summit, organized for the fourth time this year under the theme “Opening the Doors of
the Therapy Room: Prejudices in Therapy,” aimed to raise awareness about psychological
support processes in society, address common misconceptions about therapy, and bring
together students with experts in the field of psychology. The event concluded with strong
participation.
During the two-day summit, academics, field experts, and students from various cities across
Turkiye came together to discuss prejudices surrounding psychotherapy processes, clinical
practices, and current approaches from multiple perspectives. The presentations, talks, and
practical sessions held within the program contributed to participants gaining a scientific and
realistic understanding of therapy processes.
The opening ceremony of the summit was attended by ETU Rector Prof. Dr. Bulent Çakmak,
Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Naim Ürkmez, academics, and many students.
Head of the Psychology Department Ekinci: Mental Health Is Not a Luxury, but a Necessity
In his opening speech, Prof. Dr. Oğuzhan Ekinci, Head of the Psychology Department at ETU
Faculty of Letters, emphasized that mental health has become more critical than ever in
today’s world. He highlighted that psychological well-being is not only an individual matter
but also a societal necessity.
Ekinci stated that although the need for psychological support is increasing, help-seeking
behavior has not developed at the same rate. He pointed out that one of the main reasons for
this is stigma. He emphasized that seeking psychological support is not a sign of weakness,
but rather a strong indication of taking responsibility for one’s own life. He also noted that
professionals working in the field of mental health have a responsibility to inform society
accurately.
Rector Çakmak: Reducing Prejudices Toward Therapy Is of Great Importance
In his speech, ETU Rector Prof. Dr. Bülent Çakmak stated that although awareness of
psychological support processes is increasing, prejudices toward therapy still persist in
society.
He emphasized that the therapy process is often misunderstood and that it is incorrect to
perceive psychological support as something only for individuals with severe problems. He
explained that therapy is a scientific and supportive process that helps individuals understand
themselves, recognize their emotions, and cope with life’s challenges in a healthier way.
Cakmak also noted that the summit provided an important opportunity to address
misconceptions about therapy and to foster a more informed perspective on psychological
support processes. He thanked everyone who contributed to the organization of the event.

Within the scope of the summit, many topics were addressed by experts, including the
scientific foundations of psychotherapy, prejudices toward therapy, forensic interviews with
children, and societal perceptions of psychiatric medications. In addition, sessions on
psychological assessment tools, personality tests, and clinical evaluation processes
contributed to the professional development of students.
Corporate Communications and Promotion Directorate
30.03.2026