Baku Psychology Internship

Written by Seljan Babasoy

Edited by Lorenzo Rave

In the field of academic psychology, behavioral science is presented in the form of clear theories, experiments conducted in laboratories, and fixed diagnostic approaches. However, one month spent at the Baku Psychology Centre this summer gave me a clearer understanding of how things work in practice. Participating in clinical research, special seminars, and community programs has shown me that contemporary psychiatry always seeks to connect theory and practice. 

Most of my time at the internship was spent analyzing the clinical application of Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET). Although traditional cognitive behavior therapy has traditionally relied on either in vivo or imaginal exposure, VR allows for a more controllable and repeatable way of conducting the treatment process. My core research involved an empirical analysis of studies and clinical experiments devoted to exploring the application of simulated environments in the treatment of certain types of phobias, panic disorder, and social anxiety. Unlike imaginal exposure, which is highly dependent on the ability of the patient to vividly imagine the situation, virtual environments provide more control over stimuli. 

To synthesize the literature on this topic, it was necessary to move away from issues relating to therapeutic results and address technical issues regarding the implementation of advanced technology in an outpatient environment. The variables I analyzed included simulation sickness, refresh rates on display screens, sanitizing the equipment, and compliance curves. Also, in our discussions, we were able to determine why the software does not run autonomously; immersion therapy needs a therapist to be active in monitoring autonomic arousal, real-time cognitive restructuring, and preventing spontaneous avoidance. 

Apart from the study on digital therapeutics, I gained insight into institutional practices and developmental psychology locally. I participated in a professional talk about the standards and procedures of practice that are expected of school psychologists in Azerbaijan. It was insightful hearing the clinicians discuss the structural issues of mental well-being among students. 

I also had the chance to witness a group therapy session conducted in a controlled environment dealing with early childhood development issues. The experts made use of specific games to assist the children in comprehending the idea of boundaries, physical restrictions, and respecting each other. Observing how experts handled outbursts of anger or non-compliance was particularly instructive. Rather than resorting to punishment or negative reactions, they maintained a cool head by being emotionally neutral. 

My primary practical contribution was collaborating with the marketing department and the psychologist at the organization to develop topics for the education campaign targeting young people. From the position of a student, I contributed by sharing my experience about what teenagers go through in their lives in Azerbaijan, such as pressures related to school and academic exams, conflicts with peers and relatives, cyberbullying, and family values.

Spending my summer at the Baku Psychology Centre underscored that modern psychological science thrives at the intersection of technical innovation and empathetic human support. Whether evaluating cutting-edge exposure technology, observing early behavioral development, or refining public mental health communication, the experience solidified my decision to pursue a university degree in psychology and deepened my appreciation for the discipline’s clinical future.