Medical Psychology in Russia

This article describes medical psychology in Russia. A particular emphasis is placed upon a historical description of the changes that have occurred since the 1930s when the scientific development of psychology was “interrupted” by the policies of Stalin's government. These changes have included the development of psychology faculties at St. Petersburg State University and Moscow State University in the 1960s as well as the influence of western clinical psychology since the time of Perestroika in the late 1980s. The current educational model of training and practice is also presented as it is evolving since the breakup of the former Soviet Union. This model includes stressing similar coursework to and licensing of medical psychologists as “clinical psychologists” as it exists in Western Europe and North America. Current challenges to practice during this period of economic transition are also discussed.