As part of the Future Talks series organized by the Career Center Department of Üsküdar University, an online event titled “A New Era in Psychology: Understanding the Human Being, Keeping Up with the Times” was held. Within the scope of the event, the historical development of psychology, current fields of practice, its relationship with artificial intelligence, and modern therapy approaches were discussed. New perspectives on understanding the human being in a changing era were also shared with students.
The online event hosted Computer Engineer Hasan Aker, Clinical Psychologist Burcu Özçelik, and Psychologist İpek Timur as guest speakers.
The event was moderated by Semra Gül, Sectoral Collaborations Deputy Manager of the Career Center Department .
İpek Timur: “Psychology is no longer only a clinical field, it is a multidisciplinary journey”
Psychologist İpek Timur addressed the transformation psychology has undergone from past to present, emphasizing that the field is no longer limited to clinical practices alone. Stating that psychology was born out of the desire to understand human beings, Timur noted that the effort to explain the reasons behind behaviors has turned psychology into a multidimensional science. She stated, “Psychology is no longer only a clinical field, it is a multidisciplinary journey.”
While explaining the historical development of psychology, Timur pointed out that the process, which began with Wundt’s experimental studies and extended through Freud’s theories of the unconscious, behaviorism, the cognitive revolution, and humanistic approaches, has today gained a new dimension with neuropsychology and technology supported applications. Emphasizing that contemporary psychology has evolved into an evidence based, data oriented, and interdisciplinary structure, she also highlighted that career opportunities for psychology students have expanded accordingly.
“Being a psychology graduate opens the door to many fields of specialization”
Timur also addressed the concerns psychology students experience during the graduation process, stating that personal interests play a key role in career planning. She noted that psychologists take active roles in many areas such as clinical psychology, educational psychology, industrial and organizational psychology, user experience, game psychology, and digital health technologies. She stated, “Being a psychology graduate is not a single profession, but a door opening to many fields of specialization.”
Timur also shared points that individuals seeking therapy should consider when choosing a psychologist. Emphasizing the importance of area of expertise, educational qualifications, ethical stance, and the principle of confidentiality, she underlined that therapy is a process and that approaches promising “definite solutions” are not ethical.
Hasan Aker: “Artificial intelligence is not a rival to humans, but a powerful analysis tool”
Computer Engineer Hasan Aker focused on the relationship between artificial intelligence and psychology. Stating that artificial intelligence should not be viewed as a rival replacing humans but as a tool that supports them, Aker emphasized that technology offers significant contributions in analyzing and supporting psychological processes.
He noted that artificial intelligence cannot fully replicate human specific emotions such as empathy, but it can serve as an assistant that enhances therapists’ analytical capacity. Explaining that AI supported systems assist professionals in areas such as data analysis, case formulation, and session structuring within therapy processes, Aker stressed that technology transforms professions when used correctly, but creates risks when used improperly.
Burcu Özçelik: “What heals in therapy is the relationship rather than the school of thought”
Clinical Psychologist Burcu Özçelik shared her experiences in therapy processes based on her own professional journey. While acknowledging the importance of therapy schools, she emphasized that the healing factor is the relationship between the therapist and the client. Drawing attention to therapy as a living and dynamic process rather than a mechanical practice, Özçelik stated, “What heals in therapy is the relationship rather than the school of thought.”
She underlined that the trust relationship established with the client, boundaries, ethical principles, and supervision processes are decisive in professional development. Noting that therapists face visibility pressure in the digital age, Özçelik also highlighted the balance between social media use and professional ethics.
Students actively participated with their questions
Throughout the event, students asked questions about psychology education, career planning, therapy approaches, the impact of artificial intelligence on the profession, and the process of self awareness.
The speakers responded to these questions and shared their experiences regarding post graduation processes.
The event organized within the scope of the Future Talks series addressed changing approaches in psychology and technology from multiple perspectives, offering students both theoretical and practical insights.