Hello! My name is Berrak Ocel, and I am currently enrolled in the Master’s Degree in Applied Dynamic and Clinical Psychology at Sapienza University of Rome.
I chose ACROSS APS for my Practical-Evaluative Internship (TPV) because of its strong commitment to promoting mental health and social inclusion through community-based projects.
During my internship, I had the opportunity to observe how psychological knowledge can be applied beyond the clinical setting. I learned how social projects are designed, organized, and implemented to respond to the needs of specific communities. This experience allowed me to develop practical skills in project planning, teamwork, and organizational management.
One of the main tools I used was the Gantt chart, which helped structure project timelines and responsibilities. I also learned to use the Theory of Change framework to identify project objectives, expected outcomes, and strategies for achieving them. These tools provided me with a clearer understanding of how complex interventions are planned and monitored.
I also took part in the early development of the Success EU project [Erasmu+] by attending meetings and helping analyze the needs of the target population.
A particularly meaningful experience was observing activities involving children and adolescents, including a photography project exploring the question “What is Culture?”. This initiative highlighted the importance of giving young people a voice and creating safe spaces for self-expression, creativity, and reflection.
I also visited community mental health facilities and a mobile social assistance unit in San Basilio. These experiences showed me how multidisciplinary teams can provide accessible psychological and social support, helping individuals maintain autonomy, dignity, and participation in community life.
Overall, this internship significantly enriched my professional development. It strengthened my understanding of community psychology and demonstrated how mental health professionals can promote well-being not only through individual therapy, but also through preventive, educational, and socially oriented interventions.