معرفی
Dr. Maria Koushiou is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Sciences at the University of Cyprus. She holds a PhD in Clinical Psychology from the University of Cyprus and has taught at the University of Central Lancashire (Cyprus Campus), focusing on Health Psychology and Applied Psychology courses. Her research, conducted in collaboration with the ACThealthy Lab, explores eating disorders, emotion regulation in children and adolescents with chronic health conditions (e.g., congenital heart disease), and the effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Key themes include psycho-physiological mechanisms underlying eating disorders and the role of mindfulness in psychological well-being.
Dr. Koushiou has practical experience with the Humanitarian Organization 'Hope for Children' CRC Policy Center and the Ministry of Education and Culture’s Educational Psychology Services. Her work emphasizes child and family clinical services, national/EU child rights programs, and social welfare initiatives. She is affiliated with the University of Nicosia’s Center for Therapy, Training, and Research (KESY).
Her research output spans 15 peer-reviewed articles (2018–2025), with recent focus on: 1) the moderating impact of mindfulness on psychological well-being, 2) cognitive functioning in congenital heart disease patients, and 3) stress responses in eating disorder populations. Her work bridges clinical practice, child psychology, and public health, addressing SDGs like Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3).
Notably, Dr. Koushiou’s studies employ systematic reviews (e.g., meta-analyses on congenital heart disease) and innovative methods like machine learning for psychophysiological data analysis. She advocates for culturally responsive mental health interventions, particularly for unaccompanied minors and marginalized groups. Her research emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and translational science to improve clinical outcomes.
