On November 20, 2024, at 8:00 PM, an art-therapy training session using the “Diagnostic Masks” technique was held at the Student House located at 35 Zhenis Avenue. This psychological training brought together 30 students from our university. The master class offered a unique opportunity for participants to gain deeper insights into themselves and their emotions through creativity and mindfulness.

What was discussed?

The training began with a brief introduction to the key directions of the university’s psychological services:

•        diagnostic work,

•        group psychological activities,

•        individual consultations.

Participants were then introduced to the theoretical foundations of mask therapy, including:

•        its history and connection with practical psychology,

•        key models of mask therapy (phenomenological, existential, and transpersonal).

Special attention was given to the objectives of mask therapy:

•        expanding awareness of personal traits and potential,

•        transforming internal dialogue into external expression to legitimize suppressed emotions,

•        mastering skills for consciously expressing feelings,

•        overcoming fears and phobias,

•        forming positive attitudes,

•        developing new forms of interaction with the world.

Practical Part of the Training

The main stage of the training was the creative work with masks. Participants were invited to create a mask on the theme, “I am afraid of myself being like this.” This topic allowed each participant to express the fears, phobias, or traits that cause discomfort and hinder harmonious development.

The creative process was highly engaging. Students enthusiastically participated in making masks that reflected their hidden emotions and experiences. At the end of the session, those who wished to share presented their masks to the group, discussing the thoughts behind their creations and why they chose to work on a specific theme.

Feedback from Participants

The training made a profound impact. Many participants noted:

•        the discovery of new aspects of their personality,

•        gaining insight into the causes of negative emotions,

•        understanding how working with a mask can help uncover the roots of internal conflicts.

Students expressed gratitude for the opportunity to attend such an event and requested that similar training sessions be held more frequently.

This experience became an important step for our students on their journey toward self-discovery, mindfulness, and emotional harmony.

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