2007 APS International PD Tour to Egypt

APS PD Tour Group, Vietnam

Since 2005, the APS has conducted several International Professional Development Programs at exotic locations such as Egypt, Vietnam, Greece, etc.

The purposes of International Professional Development programs are many. First of all, members enjoy overseas trips in good company. Most participants are practitioners who do not usually attend overseas conferences. International Professional Development Programs provide opportunities to meet and exchange information with colleagues from all over Australia. Networking is often cited as one of the most appreciated benefits of the program. Secondly, we also use the opportunity to learn from one another and PD points are collected from these seminars.

On the 2007 trip to Egypt, we had seminars on hypnotherapy, depression, domestic violence, health anxiety, homeopathic treatment, while the overall theme of the program was Cross-Cultural Psychology. Seminars were run usually before dinner or during afternoon tea times, so there was plenty of time for sightseeing. Our members enjoyed visiting the pyramids, climbing inside various tombs at the Valley of the Kings and Queens, and cruises on the Nile and Lake Nasser. Watching the magnificent temple of Abu Simbel at sunrise from the cruise boat was an unforgettable experience.

Highlights of the trips were always visits to local psychological institutions and learning the local scene. In Egypt, we visited the Behman Psychological Medicine Hospital and took part in a case conference. Members commented on the similarities and differences of depressive symptoms in different cultural contexts. A visit to the Department of Psychology at the University of Cairo was also an eye opener on the career paths of psychology graduates in a country where clinical psychological practice is still in its infancy. The hospitality and friendliness of our Egyptian colleagues were overwhelming and we departed loaded with gifts.

After an international PD in Vietnam, one member wrote to the President of APS and said: "After nearly 30 years of ongoing membership of the APS, this would have to be one of the most valuable and pleasurable experiences I have gained from the membership of the organization".

In 2008, several international PD programs are planned, beginning with a PD program in Vietnam with an option of visiting Myanmar in January. Members who are interested should watch the APS website/ International PD.

- Professor Trang Thomas

  APS PD Tour Group at Saqqara, Vietnam