ESP

The European Semester of Psychology (ESP) coincides with Ireland holding the Presidency of the Council of the European Union from 01 July to 31 December 2026.

An initiative of the European Federation of Psychologists' Associations (EFPA), the European Semester of Psychology is aimed at creating a common space in which European psychologists can interact and communicate so as to foster the sharing and transmission of knowledge and expertise between members and, in turn, to stimulate the ongoing development of a truly European identity among psychologists across Europe.

As an EFPA Full Member, the PSI is organising the European Semester of Psychology to coincide with Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the EU. 

The Semester will showcase the breadth and impact of psychology across research, professional practice, education, policy, and public life, while strengthening connections between psychologists in Ireland and across Europe.

Throughout the Semester, the PSI will highlight how psychology contributes to addressing societal challenges, supporting mental health and wellbeing, advancing inclusion, responding to technological change, and informing evidence-based policy and practice. Activities will include conferences, webinars, lectures, professional events, and the hosting of the EFPA Council meetings in Dublin.

The European Semester of Psychology provides an opportunity to share knowledge, foster collaboration, and explore how psychology can continue to make a meaningful contribution to individuals, communities, and society across Europe.

 

Reading

Psychology Beyond Borders: Why International Collaboration Matters
As part of the European Semester of Psychology, Dr John Francis Leader reflects on the value of international collaboration in psychology and how shared learning can strengthen the profession, policy and practice.

 

Upcoming Events

Advocacy in Psychology: From Individual Practice to Systems Change | 05 October 2026

World Mental Health Day Webinar | Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change | 09 October 2026

The PSI Annual Conference | 11-13 November 2026

 

Past Events

PSI Free Public Lecture Series – The Importance of Assessment: Panel Discussion (21 September 2026)

21 September 2026

As part of the European Semester Events series, this event explored the importance of assessment across the lifespan, examining its role as both a statutory entitlement and a fundamental human right. Through discussion and shared perspectives, the panel considered how equitable access to assessment supports inclusion, participation, and positive outcomes for individuals at every stage of life.

Speakers included: PSI President Dr Sarah Cassidy; CEO of AsIAm Mr Adam Harris; consultant psychiatrist in adult ADHD Dr Marie Boilson; and Assistant Professor in Occupational Therapy Dr Anne V. Kirby.

Becoming a Psychologist - Identity, Wellbeing and Early Career Growth (05 September 2026)

05 September 2026

The PSI Early Graduate Group Annual Conference explored topics including developing a professional identity, navigating imposter syndrome and comparison, maintaining wellbeing and preventing burnout, and finding meaning and values in psychological work.

Dr Sarah Cassidy, PSI President, delivered the conference keynote, which was followed by a panel discussion ‘Becoming a Psychologist: Routes, Realities and Reflections’, bringing together experienced psychologists, programme directors and psychologists currently undertaking professional training.

The panel included: Dr Aidan Corr, Programme Director of the Professional Doctorate in Educational and Child Psychology at Mary Immaculate College, Limerick; Dr Patrick Ryan, Programme Director of the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the University of Limerick; and Dr Suzanne McHugh, Senior Clinical Psychologist in a Young Adult Mental Health Service and Membership Secretary of the PSI Clinical Division. They were joined by Amy Walsh, a second-year trainee on the Doctoral Clinical Psychology programme at the University of Limerick, and Ellen Moran, a second-year Trainee Clinical Psychologist at University College Cork.