The School of Educational Sciences at the University of Jordan hosted British psychotherapist Mary de Echevarría, registered with the UK Council for Psychotherapy and accredited by leading international psychological associations, who is recognized as one of the prominent specialists in Eye Movement Therapy and trauma-focused treatment. The event came as part of the School’s ongoing efforts to promote mental-health awareness and foster a culture of positive psychological support among its students.
Dean of the School of Educational Sciences, Professor Dr. Mohammad Sael Al-Zyoud, welcomed the guest, affirming that organizing this seminar aligns with the School’s strategic vision of enhancing psychological well-being and human balance within the university environment. He emphasized the School’s commitment to providing a supportive educational atmosphere for students and faculty through scientific meetings and workshops that bridge theory and practice.
Dr. Al-Zyoud stated that hosting Mary de Echevarría offers a valuable opportunity to exchange international expertise in counseling and modern psychotherapy, introducing students to advanced global approaches in addressing psychological disorders and trauma—including Eye Movement Therapy, which is gaining wider application in advanced mental-health centers worldwide. He stressed that caring for mental health is an essential part of the comprehensive educational mission of the university, as it forms the foundation of academic and societal success. He added that the School’s future plans include expanding practical-training programs and international cooperation to enhance counseling students’ competencies and prepare them to become active contributors to community development.
Dr. Al-Zyoud concluded by emphasizing that the seminar supports national efforts to promote psychological awareness and human well-being, noting that investing in mental health is ultimately an investment in people, and that preparing students to provide psychological and social support is a core pillar of the School’s mission in serving both the nation and humanity.
During the seminar, titled “A Healthy Start for a Promising Future,” Mary de Echevarría delivered an interactive presentation emphasizing the importance of mental health as a foundation for balanced living. She noted that psychological well-being is no less important than physical health; rather, both dimensions complement each other to shape individuals capable of positive thinking, sound decision-making, and healthy human relationships.
Echevarría explained that mental health is essential for creativity, learning, and adapting to life’s challenges, highlighting that societies that prioritize mental health develop more stable, productive, and innovative populations. She affirmed that investing in mental health is an investment in the future, as psychologically balanced individuals are better equipped to contribute meaningfully to national development.
She also pointed to the strong link between psychological disorders and academic or professional performance, noting that neglecting mental stress can lead to lower academic achievement and reduced productivity, whereas proper mental-health care opens broader opportunities for personal growth and practical success.
In another part of the seminar, Echevarría introduced the concept of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an internationally recognized therapeutic approach for trauma treatment. She explained that EMDR depends on stimulating brain processes through guided eye movements to help individuals process stored traumatic experiences, overcome their impacts, and restore psychological balance. She emphasized its effectiveness in treating post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, and lack of self-confidence, calling for increased training of Arab students and practitioners in these modern therapeutic techniques in ways that respect cultural context.
In her welcoming remarks, Dr. Leneh Ashour noted that such events reflect the School’s vision of enhancing psychological and educational awareness among students and the wider community, and preparing counselors equipped with the necessary professional and emotional-support skills to serve vulnerable groups and those most exposed to psychological pressures. She added that the seminar’s title, “A Healthy Start for a Promising Future,” reflects a deep belief that building a promising future requires more than ambition; it requires a solid foundation of psychological balance and a mindful, resilient approach to life’s challenges.
The seminar saw strong engagement from students and faculty who raised questions about counseling techniques, methods of dealing with anxiety and stress in university life, and strategies to enhance psychological resilience in light of current challenges. There was also engaging discussion on the role of higher-education institutions in supporting mental-health initiatives and integrating them into national human-development plans.
The seminar concluded with expressions of gratitude to Mary de Echevarría for her scientific contributions, as well as thanks to all participants for their active involvement. The School reaffirmed its commitment to continuing to organize similar events that bridge academic knowledge with applied practice in counseling and special education, contributing directly to shaping a generation that is aware, balanced, and convinced of the essential role of mental health in leading a successful life and building a prosperous future.