On 23 June 2026, a working meeting was held at the Faculty of Philosophy of St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Tarnovo between representatives of the Faculty leadership and the Department of Psychology, and students and faculty members from California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB), USA. The visit was organised with the support of Assoc. Prof. Anna Ivanova, PhD, Vice-Rector for International Affairs at the University of Veliko Tarnovo, and Therapy Abroad Europe.
California State University, Bakersfield is part of the California State University system, one of the largest public university systems in the United States. The university educates more than 10,000 students and offers numerous bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes, as well as a doctoral programme in educational leadership. Psychology is among the established academic fields at the university, and CSUB develops active research in the behavioural and social sciences.
The visit was part of the international educational programme of Therapy Abroad Europe, whose aim is to introduce students to different models of education, professional training, and the organisation of psychological and health-related services in Bulgaria and Turkey. In addition to higher education institutions, participants visit mental health centres, psychological counselling services, social support organisations, and other institutions providing specialised services in the field of mental health and well-being.
During the meeting, the guests expressed strong interest in psychology education at the University of Veliko Tarnovo, the organisation of the study process, opportunities for practical training, and the professional development of psychology students in Bulgaria. They visited the Faculty of Philosophy and became acquainted with the activities of the Centre for Psychological Research and Counselling, where the main areas of work, research activities, counselling services, and opportunities for students’ active involvement in practical initiatives were presented.