Alexandra Ivanova

Assoc. Prof. Alexandra Ivanova, PhD is an Associate Professor at New Bulgarian University (NBU) in the Center for Continuing Education. She teaches courses such as "LOGB728 Art Therapy Practices for Children with Communication Disorders" and has established herself as a leading figure in art therapy and related disciplines.

Her educational background includes:

• Specialization in Art Therapy - Visual Arts from University of Ljubljana, Slovenia (2006)
• PhD in Pedagogy of Visual Arts from St. Kliment Ohridski University, Bulgaria (2001-2005)
• Master of Arts from NHA "N. Pavlovich", Bulgaria (1991-1996)

Prof. Ivanova's research focuses on the application of art therapy techniques for various populations, particularly orphaned children and those with special needs. Her work bridges artistic expression with psychological healing, exploring how visual arts, drama, music, and dance can serve therapeutic purposes. She has conducted numerous projects addressing social pedagogy and special education, with a particular emphasis on developing creative interdisciplinary approaches for socializing and educating vulnerable children. Her scholarly output demonstrates consistent evolution from foundational art therapy techniques to specialized applications including phototherapy and architectural modeling as therapeutic tools.

Her notable recognition includes:

• Nomination for Young Artist of the Year from "Art" magazine (1998) for the "Art Gastronom" project

Prof. Ivanova has coordinated and participated in over 20 research and artistic projects from 1998 to 2016. She has served as curator for numerous student and children's exhibitions both in Bulgaria and internationally, including solo and group exhibitions spanning multiple continents. Her professional activities demonstrate a remarkable integration of academic scholarship, artistic practice, and therapeutic application, creating innovative approaches to using artistic expression for healing and development among vulnerable populations.