Recently, the official presentation took place of the Aruban United Psychologists Association (PAU), an organization born out of the need to bring structure and a distinct identity to the field of psychology on our island. In an era where mental health is in crisis, PAU arrives with a clear vision: to decolonize existing models and give local professionals the voice they deserve.
Fragmentation and the Loss of Identity
According to the President of the Aruban United Psychologists Association (PAU), Dimitri Halley, the main reason for the launch of PAU is the current state of the profession in Aruba. They point out that the field is highly fragmented and that, for many years, psychology has lost its own identity. For a long time, the profession has been viewed as an extension of other disciplines, which has hindered the development of a vision specifically aligned with the local reality.
The Symbol of PAU: Sovereignty and Autonomy
The choice of the name and symbol is not accidental. PAU represents the essence of the organization: sovereignty and autonomy. PAU seeks to establish professional distance from two pillars that have historically dominated the field:
- Autonomy from Psychiatry: The goal is to stop the so-called “entanglement” with the psychiatric model. While psychiatry often focuses heavily on medication and biological aspects, PAU aims to bring the focus back to deeper psychological processes, going beyond merely treating superficial symptoms.
- Independence from the Dutch Model: PAU questions the tendency to “copy-paste” models from the Netherlands and apply them in Aruba. They emphasize that what works in Europe does not necessarily “fit” the Aruban patient.
Culture as the Key Factor
One of the strongest points raised by PAU is the importance of culture in the healing and guidance process. Pioneers and professionals with many years of experience in the field have observed that culture plays a fundamental role—often greater than in other areas of medicine.
“Imported models do not fully connect with Aruba on several levels. Culture is a very significant factor,” explained Dimitri Halley, President of the Aruban United Psychologists Association (PAU), indicating the need for a psychology that speaks the language and understands the emotional reality of the people.
A New Approach to the Current Crisis
Within the context of the mental health crisis that Aruba is currently facing, the launch of PAU comes at a critical moment. The organization aims to ensure that mental health care is not merely a temporary solution, but a solid, autonomous, and culturally relevant system capable of providing real and meaningful support to the community of Aruba.