Department of Medical Psychology, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy

HISTORY OF THE DEPARTMENT

The Department of Medical Psychology, Psychosomatic Medicine, and Psychotherapy was established on August 1, 2015 (Order of NMU No. 338, dated May 14, 2015) within the Medical-Psychological Faculty, following the restructuring of the Department of General and Medical Psychology and Pedagogy. This restructuring resulted in the division of the department into clinical and two theoretical departments, responding to the needs of the time and the demands of the domestic healthcare system. The department was initially headed by Professor Oleg Chaban.

At the present stage, the Department of Medical Psychology, Psychosomatic Medicine, and Psychotherapy defines the priority directions for the comprehensive development of medical-psychological science, conducting fundamental and applied research, and preparing highly qualified scientific personnel in the fields of psychology and medicine.

The research efforts of the department focus on the study of relevant and necessary medical-psychological influences on the treatment of patients from both psychiatric and general medical backgrounds, which are already being implemented in the medical practices of higher educational institutions in Ukraine as well as in practical medicine and psychotherapy.

Since 2023, the department has been led by Professor Olena Haustova.

The Department of Medical Psychology, Psychosomatic Medicine, and Psychotherapy at the Bohomolets National Medical University has a long-standing history of providing high-quality education and research in the field of medical psychology, psychiatry and psychosocial intervention, and psychosomatic medicine. Established to meet the growing need for integrating psychological and psychiatric care into medical practice, the department has significantly contributed to the development of mental health care in Ukraine.

Throughout its history, the department has focused on training specialists in medical psychology, psychiatry and researchers who are skilled in diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychological and psychosomatic disorders. The department is committed to addressing the complex mental health challenges faced by patients, particularly those with chronic conditions, stress-related disorders, and trauma, which have become increasingly prevalent in the context of modern society, including the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Over the years, the department has been instrumental in developing innovative approaches to medical psychology, psychiatry and psychosocial intervention. It has been actively involved in research projects, scientific publications, and collaborations with national and international institutions. As a leader in the field, the department continues to contribute to the advancement of psychosomatic medicine, providing a foundation for future developments in medical and psychological care.

Through its academic programs, research initiatives, and clinical practice, the department has remained dedicated to promoting mental health and well-being, training future professionals, and advancing the scientific understanding of the complex interaction between mind and body in health and disease.