On November 4, 2024, at 8:00 PM, a psychological training session titled “Do You Know Yourself?” was held for international students at the dormitory located at 9 G. Potanin Street. The event was attended by 26 participants. The purpose of the training was to introduce students to the university’s psychological services and assist them in adapting to the learning environment.

Training Goal: To actualize knowledge and self-awareness.

Training Objectives:

•        Facilitate introductions and create a positive emotional atmosphere;

•        Develop motivation for collaborative activities;

•        Enhance understanding of the system of self-knowledge;

•        Encourage self-awareness.

Training Process:

The theoretical part included an introduction to the key concepts: “emotion,” “stress,” and “emotional intelligence.” After discussing these theoretical aspects, participants moved on to practical exercises. The first exercise was “10 Positive and Negative ‘I’s’ Within Me,” aimed at developing self-awareness and understanding personal strengths and weaknesses. Next, the “Mindfulness Practice” technique was conducted, where participants performed a short self-reflection exercise, analyzing the physical manifestations of their emotions (such as body tension, heartbeat, etc.). This exercise helped in diagnosing and managing emotions in stressful situations and conflicts.

The participants showed enthusiasm and interest, noting the benefits of the training, and provided positive feedback.

On November 7, 2024, at 5:00 PM, an art therapy workshop titled “Diagnostic Masks” (mask therapy) was held for KazMSA members in room 510, building 51 of the university. The workshop was attended by 25 participants.

Technique Goal: To diagnose personal traits and shadow aspects of the personality.

Workshop Process:

The introductory part included an overview of the theoretical foundations of mask therapy: the connection between mask creation and psychology, the history and significance of masks in human life, and models of mask therapy. After the theoretical part, the students began creating their own individual masks, representing the image of “This is Me.” The process of making the mask proved to be both therapeutic and diagnostic, allowing participants to gain deeper insight into their inner experiences and characteristics.

During the reflection stage, students shared their emotions, discoveries, and new insights about themselves. Participants noted the high value of the workshop and expressed a desire to take part in similar events in the future.

Senior Methodologist-Psychologist of the Social and Educational Work Center, Sarbassova K.K.