New books on counselling and health psychology launched in Hyderabad

Hyderabad: A significant literary event took place at a hotel in Gachibowli, in city, where two groundbreaking books in the fields of counselling and health psychology were launched.

The first book, Counselling Skills: Theory and Practice, authored by Meera Harinarayan, Usha Chivukula, and Meera Padhy, was officially released by Dr Kota Harinarayana, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Hyderabad. The second book, The Textbook of Health Psychology, written by Meena Hariharan, was unveiled by Prof Alok Kumar Chakrawal, Vice Chancellor of Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh.

The event was presided over by Prof R Venkat Rao, Vice Chancellor of the Indian International University of Legal Education and Research, Goa. Both books were published by Routledge, a division of the Taylor & Francis Group.

The newly launched books received praise from distinguished reviewers, including Dr. K. Chandrasekhar, a psychiatrist at Asha Hospital, Hyderabad; Prof Mahati Chittem, a psychology faculty member at IIT Hyderabad; Dr B Sesikeran, former Director of the National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad; and Dr Marlyn Thomas Savio, Research Manager at Global Wellness & Resiliency TaskUs.

Dr Chandrasekhar emphasised the significant shift in public perception regarding mental health over the past four decades, noting that the post-Covid era has seen the emergence of new techniques in mental health treatment. "Surging Post-Covid Demand Spurs Need for Counselors in Evolving Psychiatry Landscape," he added.

He highlighted that the books would serve as valuable guides for professional counselors, with a comprehensive explanation of physiological and biological phenomena. Dr. Chandrasekhar also stressed the importance of music, specifically Indian Ragas, in alleviating emotional distress, pointing out that each Raga has the potential to address a particular type of distress.

Prof Mahati Chittem from IIT-Hyderabad lauded ‘Counselling Skills: Theory and Practice,’ calling it highly relevant for Indian students and practitioners. She noted that the book effectively covers music therapy, which can provide emotional relief. Prof Chittem also discussed the challenges of terminating treatment in India and mentioned the growing interest in counselling as a profession among stakeholders in the country.

Dr Marlyn Thomas Savio, reviewing The Textbook of Health Psychology, described health psychology as a highly interdisciplinary field. She praised the book for its exploration of wellness and illness, focusing on biological, psychological, and social aspects.

Dr Savio suggested that contemporary issues deserve more attention in future editions and highlighted the book's focus on health resilience, noting that disease is not only a personal but also a social concern.

During his speech, Dr Kota Harinarayana introduced a new concept of BMI—Body, Mind, and Interaction—citing Swami Chinmayananda. He described psychology as an empirical science, blending both art and science, and commended the high quality of the books, which cater to contemporary readers.

Prof. Alok Kumar Chakrawal emphasized the importance of confidentiality in counseling, noting that clients often share deeply personal information. He stated that the book addresses not just one type of stress, but a bundle of stresses, making it an essential resource for counselors.

Prof Venkat Rao remarked on the enduring relevance of psychology, particularly in an era of increasing reliance on artificial intelligence and technological advancements. He distinguished between the love of power and the power of love, stressing that health span is more crucial than life span. According to Prof. Rao, well-being is synonymous with health in today's world.

Author Prof Meena Hariharan expressed her gratitude for the positive reception of her books. She acknowledged the inspiration she drew from Dr. Kota Harinarayana and thanked her co-authors, Dr Usha Chivukula and Dr Meera Padhy, for their support in writing Counselling Skills: Theory and Practice. Prof Hariharan also highlighted the interdisciplinary nature of psychology, emphasising its importance in various fields, including the judiciary and industry as well.