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Transformative Fortis School mental health internship empowers Apeejay School, Noida students
Students gain practical insights in psychology under Dr. Samir Parikh’s mentorship
Recently, Apeejay School, Noida witnessed a transformative event in which 60 students from Grades 11 and 12 embarked on a unique journey—the Fortis School Mental Health Internship in Psychology.
Organised at Apeejay School, Noida, this six-day internship aimed to immerse students in the field of psychology under the guidance of Dr. Samir Parikh, a renowned psychiatrist and Director of the Department of Mental Health and Behavioural Sciences at Fortis Healthcare.
The internship aimed to equip students with practical insights into psychological interviewing, understanding mental disorders, exploring various fields of psychology, and fostering a deeper understanding of community mental health.
Throughout the internship, students engaged in a series of workshops and interactive sessions that focused on essential skills in psychology. They learnt the art of psychological interviewing, Mental Status Examination (MSE), and case history analysis. These sessions were designed to enhance their abilities in active listening, empathy, and building rapport—a crucial foundation for effective therapeutic interactions.
The programme also delved into the spectrum of mental disorders, ranging from neurodevelopmental disorders to schizophrenia. Students gained valuable insights into the symptoms, causes, and evidence-based treatments for these conditions. Dr. Parikh, through his sessions, aimed to debunk common misconceptions about mental health and encouraged critical thinking among the participants.
Another significant aspect of the internship was the exploration of different fields within psychology, including clinical, counselling, educational, and organisational psychology. Students learnt about the diverse career paths available in these fields, ethical considerations in psychological practice, and the profound impact of psychological interventions on both individuals and communities.
Social psychology was also a key focus, where students examined concepts such as the spotlight effect, conformity, and the bystander effect. These discussions helped students reflect on their own behaviours and biases, highlighting how social contexts influence our perceptions and actions.
Practical application of therapeutic approaches was a highlight of the internship’s fifth day. Students engaged in role-plays to practise cognitive-behavioural therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and humanistic approaches. These exercises aimed to hone their skills in empathetic communication and intervention strategies, preparing them for future roles in mental health care.
The final day of the internship celebrated the role of psychologists in community mental health. Dr. Parikh inspired students to become advocates for change in their communities through outreach programmes and efforts to destigmatize mental health issues. This session underscored the broader societal impact of psychology beyond clinical settings.
Feedback from both online and offline participants was overwhelmingly positive. Ananya Shunglu, a student from Class 12 F Humanities who participated online, shared, “Psychology has always fascinated me, and this internship provided a rich learning experience. Dr. Parikh’s interactive sessions deepened my understanding of psychological disorders and their impact on individuals. It was a holistic exploration of psychology’s role in everyday life.”
Ridhima Vats, a student from Class 11 F Humanities who attended the offline sessions, echoed similar sentiments, saying, “The internship broadened my perspective on psychology and its practical applications. The psychologists were incredibly supportive, guiding us through various aspects of mental health care and empowering us with knowledge that will be invaluable in our future endeavours.”
In conclusion, the Fortis School Mental Health Internship in Psychology at Apeejay School, Noida, marked a significant milestone in the educational journey of these students. By providing a comprehensive and hands-on experience in various facets of psychology, the internship not only enriched their academic understanding but also instilled in them a deep sense of responsibility towards promoting mental well-being in society. This experience is poised to shape their future careers and aspirations, ensuring they emerge as informed and compassionate leaders in the field of mental health.
