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USJ Delegation Participates in Regional Psychology Conference

2024-07-08

08

Jul

08/07/2024

The University of Saint Joseph (USJ) was invited to attend the Inaugural Meeting of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau University Psychological Counseling Alliance and Seminar on Psychological Health Promotion, held on the 6th and 7th of July, 2024, in Sun Yat-Sen University in Zhuhai, China.



The University of Saint Joseph (USJ) was invited to attend the Inaugural Meeting of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau University Psychological Counseling Alliance and Seminar on Psychological Health Promotion, held on the 6th and 7th of July, 2024, in Sun Yat-Sen University in Zhuhai, China. Attending the conference were Dr. Edward Kwan, Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology of the Faculty of Health Science, doctoral student in Psychology Ms. Kris Wong, and Ms. Helen Lao of the USJ Counselling Centre.  

Ms. Helen Lao delivered a talk titled “Harmony in Collaboration: Tailoring Mental Health Support for Macau’s Diverse Student Population” in the afternoon oral presentation session. Drawing on her experience providing counseling services at USJ, Ms. Lao shared insights on the strategies the university employs to meet the unique mental health needs of its diverse student body.

Some of the key points highlighted in Ms. Lao’s presentation included:

  • Establishing multi-lingual counselling channels to ensure students from all backgrounds can access resources and services in their native or preferred languages.
  • Creating an inclusive campus environment through the promotion of multicultural themes and celebrations.
  • Strengthening partnerships between the university and local community organizations to better connect students with relevant support systems.
  • Continuous training and improvement efforts to enhance the cultural sensitivity and competency of the counseling staff.

“It was a privilege to represent USJ and share our approach to supporting the mental health of our students,” said Ms. Lao. “The conference provided a valuable platform for exchanging ideas and learning from our peers across the Greater Bay Area.”

Prof. Kuan and his PhD student Kris also actively participated in the conference, contributing to discussions and networking with other psychology professionals in the region in explore collaboration opportunities.

The University of Saint Joseph remains committed to prioritizing the well-being of its students and fostering a supportive, inclusive campus environment. The involvement of USJ representatives at this regional psychology conference underscores the university’s dedication to staying at the forefront of mental health best practices and collaborating with regional partners.