Understanding the human mind is no longer confined to classrooms—it demands real-world conversations, ethical reflections, and interdisciplinary perspectives. PES University’s Psychology Summit 2026: Human Behaviour Unveiled embodied this spirit by bringing together academia, industry, and aspiring psychologists for two intellectually enriching days on March 23 and 24, 2026, at the GJBC Auditorium, Bengaluru.
Organised by the Institute of Psychology, PES University, the summit welcomed nearly 300 undergraduate students and close to 30 mental health and industry professionals, creating a vibrant platform to explore the evolving landscape of psychology across clinical, counselling, organisational, and forensic domains.
A Meaningful Beginning
The summit commenced with a graceful invocation dance by Kushi Prasad, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Prof. Ajoy Kumar, Chief Operating Officer, and Dr. Shailashree Haridas, Dean, Faculty of Management & Commerce.
In her welcome address, Dr. Haridas highlighted the importance of dialogue-driven learning and real-world exposure for psychology students. Prof. Ajoy Kumar further emphasized the role of academic institutions in nurturing ethically responsible professionals who can respond to growing global mental health challenges.
Day 1: Clinical and Counselling Psychology
From Crisis Intervention to Holistic Healing
The first day focused on Clinical and Counselling Psychology, addressing both crisis scenarios and integrative approaches to healing.
Psychiatric Emergencies and Suicide Prevention
The keynote address by Dr. Aditya Subrahmanyam H, Medical Director, Manasa Neuropsychiatric Hospital, explored “Suicide Risk and Clinical Practice.” Introducing the SPREAD initiative and the Zero Suicide framework, he underscored the importance of structured assessment, early intervention, and collaborative clinical care.
This was followed by a thought-provoking panel discussion, “From Crisis to Care,” featuring experienced clinicians and mental health professionals. The panel examined ethical dilemmas in crisis management, particularly the balance between patient autonomy and safety, reinforcing the need for context-sensitive and multidisciplinary approaches.
Beyond Talk Therapy: Integrative Counselling Approaches
The afternoon session shifted the lens to Counselling Psychology and alternative therapeutic modalities. Dr. Ashwini N. V., Director of Muktha Foundation, delivered a keynote on “Holistic Healing: Mind-Body Integrations in Counselling.” She introduced a Mind-Body-Ecological Integration framework, encompassing somatic practices, energy-based techniques, forest bathing, and animal-assisted therapy.
A dynamic panel on “Innovative Therapeutic Approaches” explored how creative expressions such as art therapy, psychodrama, and theatre serve as powerful tools for healing, inclusivity, and neurodiverse engagement—transcending language and cultural barriers.
Day 2: Psychology in the World of Work, Law, and Justice
Industrial & Organisational Psychology: The Future of Work
Day two opened with a focus on the workplace. Ms. Akshaya M. B., Manager – HR & Lead – DEI at Merative, delivered an insightful keynote titled “I/O Psychology in Action: Strategies for Organizational Excellence.” She reframed Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) as a strategic business imperative rather than a compliance requirement.
The subsequent panel, “Navigating the Corporate Landscape,” discussed human-centric leadership, automation-driven workforce transitions, and the growing relevance of employee mental well-being in organisational strategy.
Forensic Psychology: Where Law Meets Behaviour
The afternoon session delved into Forensic Psychology, showcasing its application in modern criminal investigations. Mr. Phaneendar B. N., Founder of Clue4 Evidence Forensic Lab, demonstrated how psychological profiling and behavioural analysis are becoming critical tools in law enforcement.
The concluding panel discussion, “The Intersection of Law and Psychology,” explored ethical challenges in expert testimony, witness memory reliability, and the expanding role of forensic psychologists within the Indian judicial system.
A Convergence of Knowledge, Practice, and Purpose
The summit concluded with a valedictory address, marking two days of meaningful conversations, professional insights, and student engagement. By seamlessly integrating academic theory with industry practice, the Psychology Summit 2026 reinforced PES University’s commitment to holistic, future-ready education.
More than an event, the summit served as a launchpad for informed, ethical, and socially responsive psychology professionals—ready to understand, interpret, and transform human behaviour in an ever-changing world.
