Workshop on Culture and Psychological Balancing Therapies

The workshop took place over two days, July 24th and 25th, 2008, and was jointly organized by the University of Social Sciences and Humanities and the Resource Center - School of Psychology of the Republic of France.

This was also the 3rd Franco-Vietnamese Conference on Psychotherapy. A large number of psychologists, doctors, educators, counselors, cultural researchers, and social workers from universities, research institutes, hospitals, and counseling centers in France and Vietnam participated in the conference.

As a science that deeply studies human beings, psychology has developed alongside the evolution of human cultures and civilizations. Psychotherapy, in particular, applies theoretical knowledge of psychology and practical life experiences to treat the ailments of our time. While traditional treatments focus only on pathological conditions, modern psychotherapy addresses the entire range of mental imbalances experienced by individuals, groups, communities, and society as a whole. Therefore, psychotherapy, and psychology in general, is ranked among the top ten fastest-growing professions in the world today.

Aiming to advance research in psychotherapy, this conference addresses the concept of culture and the impact of cultural change on individuals' mental well-being. In addition, the conference discusses methods of treatment and support for individuals in coping with these cultural changes. Specifically, the conference focuses on analyzing and clarifying the cultural differences between Eastern and Western approaches to mental health care.

Over the course of two days, the workshop will include discussion sessions on the following specific topics:

• Vietnamese culture and mental health issues.
• Psychological balance and traditional healing practices in Vietnam.
• Psychological systems and psychological balance
• Art therapy practice
• Other approaches in modern psychotherapy