Tel Aviv-Yaffo Academic College Reports 30% Surge in Psychology Students
Tel Aviv-Yaffo Academic College reports a 30% surge in new psychology students amid rising mental health demands following the October 7 outbreak.
The Academic College of Tel Aviv-Yaffo has reported a 30% surge in new undergraduate psychology students this year, driven by soaring demand for mental health care following the outbreak of the war. The institution, which trains approximately 25% of all new mental health professionals in the country, announced that 440 students began their bachelor's studies in psychology this month.
Enrollment for the master's program in psychology also experienced growth, with 172 students starting their graduate studies—a 6% increase compared to the previous year. College officials attribute this upward trend to heightened public awareness regarding the importance of psychological treatment and a critical shortage of therapists following the October 7 attacks and the ongoing conflict.
Prof. Chaim Einat, Dean of the School of Behavioral Sciences at the college, emphasized that the societal need for psychological support will persist for many years. While welcoming the surge in enrollment, he stressed that professional training takes years and requires expanded internship opportunities and better retention in the public healthcare system to ensure accessible care.
