To promote the development of resilient minds and explore strategies that support mental wellness across different life stages and environments, the Guidance and Placement Center of Wesleyan University-Philippines (WUP) joins the 7th International Conference on Psychology, Counseling, and Education (ICPCE) 2025 held on August 29-30, at the Mini Convention Center, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) Sumacab Campus, Cabanatuan City.

With the theme “Fostering Resilient Minds: Advancing Multidisciplinary Approaches for Mental Wellness in the 21st Century,” the international conference gathered experts, educators, and practitioners in psychology, counseling, and education.

Leading the WUP delegation was Dr. Annie Dinh Maria M. Alfaro, Guidance Director and PGCA–Nueva Ecija officer, who also served as a conference facilitator. Dr. Alfaro was also joined by Associate Guidance Counselors Mrs. Lea Monica E. Sarmiento, Ms. Carleen O. Mata, and Ms. Kimberly Agustin, underscoring the team’s commitment to student mental health and professional growth.

The conference featured a series of workshops, such as “Working with Trauma, Triggers, and Emotional Dysregulation using Polyvagal Theory-Guided Approach to Therapy: Phase 1” with Dr. Jenny Lyn B. Casano, RPsy, RGC, ICAP-Treatment, Managing Director of Psych Counseling and Health Support Services, which introduced trauma-informed tools grounded in Polyvagal Theory to help clients regulate emotions and foster resilience.

Dr. Charissa Mojica-Rañeses, RN, PA (RES), Psychotrauma Practitioner and Pastoral Counselor at Porta Coeli Center for Counseling and Psychotrauma Management, facilitated “Psychological Trauma Management: Intrapersonal and Interpersonal Perspective,” where she emphasized how intrapersonal growth—such as self-awareness and resilience—must be complemented by interpersonal healing through trust-building, communication, and relational support.

In the last workshop, Mr. Adrian E. Yrigan, RPsy, RPm, Head Psychologist of Ventrix Psychology Clinic, delivered “Fostering Resilient Minds: Advancing Multidisciplinary Approaches for Mental Wellness in the 21st Century,” which highlighted the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration, holistic strategies, and culturally sensitive interventions to strengthen networks in mental health practice.

The WUP Guidance and Placement Center joined other leaders and practitioners in the field, including Mrs. Lorena R. Domingo, Guidance Coordinator and Senior High School Faculty of NEUST, along with Dr. Rañeses, Mr. Yrigan, Dr. Venus A. Vitales (President of PGCA–Nueva Ecija Chapter), and Ms. Guila Mananquil (Psychologist, Family Court).

The international conference was organized by Psych Reg and Psych Counseling and Health Support Services, in partnership with the Philippine Guidance and Counseling Association (PGCA) – Nueva Ecija Chapter and NEUST.

This initiative supports the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, by promoting mental wellness, and SDG 4: Quality Education, by enhancing professional development and educational practices in the field of counseling and psychology.

Through its participation, the WUP Guidance and Placement Center reaffirmed its mission to champion holistic student development and mental wellness by engaging in international dialogues on psychology, counseling, and education.

by Ayumi San Cai Valerio
Photos courtesy of WUP Guidance and Placement Center
Information provided by Annie Dinh M. Alfaro