Research Profile

Lydia Sapouna

Biography

I am a lecturer in the School of Applied Social Studies and currently the director of the Bachelor of Social Work Programme (BSW). 

I completed my social work studies in Greece in 1990 where I developed a strong interest in mental health policy and practice. I moved to Ireland in 1991 to conduct postgraduate research in the process of de-institutionalisation and the development of community mental health approaches. I started lecturing in UCC in 1994 and, over the years, I have taught courses in mental health (social policy and social work), social work theory, community care, and critical disability studies at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

My teaching, research and community contributions are primarily in the area of critical mental health, education and practice. I am interested in the politics of mental health and the role of social activism in changing power imbalances in mental health systems, including education. As a social work educator, I endeavour to facilitate students to understand, and engage with, experiences of human distress in ways that are focused on social and life contexts and are informed by principles of human rights and social justice.     

Over the years, I have worked collaboratively with mental health service-users/survivors in the areas of education, research, advocacy, and human rights. Together with Harry Gijbels (School of Nursing and Midwifery UCC, retired) we co-organise the annual critical perspectives in mental health conference since 2009, an event that has gained local, national, and international recognition and a reputation for its democratic ethos, its contribution to human rights, and its contribution to understanding of experiences of human distress in contemporary society. We are co-founders of Critical Voices Network Ireland (CVNI) which emerged out of this annual conference as a network of people from diverse backgrounds (people with self-experience, carers, professionals, academics and others) interested in considering and developing responses to human distress which are creative, enabling, respectful and firmly grounded in human rights.
 

As part of my research activities in the area of mental health, I am one of the founding members and co-ordinators of the ISS21 disability and mental health research cluster. I supervise research carried out by students at post-graduate level and would welcome expressions of interest from potential PhD/doctoral researchers in the areas of social work and social justice, service user/survivor involvement, critical approaches to mental health, and Mad Studies.

Research Interests

My key research interests are in the area of critical mental health theory, policy and practice. I am interested in the politics of mental health and the role of social activism in changing power imbalances in mental health systems. I am committed to developing education and research approaches which centre on service user/survivor knowledge as a way of democratising mental health systems and providing meaningful alternatives beyond the current pathology focused approaches to emotional distress. My current involvement in mental health activism includes the development of the Critical Voices Network Ireland (with Harry Gijbels), the organisation of the annual Critical Perspectives Conference (with Harry Gijbels), the platform Mad in Ireland and a number of campaigns to end coercion in mental health. At the same time, I am managing the tension between my commitment to social justice and the expectation to prepare students for practice in a predominantly biomedical and often coercive context. Over the years I have worked collaboratively with service-users/survivors in the areas of advocacy and human rights, but I am increasingly concerned about the co-option of user involvement by mainstream institutions, including education.

Publications

Book Chapters

 YearPublication
(2019)'Social Work Education as a critical space'
Lydia Sapouna (2019) 'Social Work Education as a critical space' In: H. Gijbels, L. Sapouna and G. Sidley (eds). Inside out, outside in: Transforming mental health practices. Ross-on-Wye: PCCS Books. [Details]
(2015)'Opportunities for social workers’ critical engagement in mental health care'
Sapouna Lydia and Brosnan Liz (2015) 'Opportunities for social workers’ critical engagement in mental health care' In: Christie, A, Featherstone, B, Quin, S and Walsh, T (eds). Social Work in Ireland. Changes and Continuities. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan. [Details]
(2006)'Policy, Practice and Research as Knowledge in Mental Health'
Sapouna, L. & Herrmann P.; (2006) 'Policy, Practice and Research as Knowledge in Mental Health' In: Knowledge in Mental Health; Reclaiming the Social. New York: Nova Science Publications. [Details]
(2006)'Tracing Evidence of Institutionalisation in the Process ofDde-institutionalisation: the Irish Case'
Sapouna, L. & Herrmann P. ; (2006) 'Tracing Evidence of Institutionalisation in the Process ofDde-institutionalisation: the Irish Case' In: Knowledge in Mental Health; Reclaiming the Social. New York: Nova Science Publications. [Details]
(2002)'Issues and Challenges in Establishing Mental Health Promotion in Ireland'
Sapouna, L. ; (2002) 'Issues and Challenges in Establishing Mental Health Promotion in Ireland' In: European Perspectives of Mental Health Promotion: First Steps. Anglia Polytechnic University: Anglia Polytechnic University. [Details]
(1999)'EU Migrant Women in Ireland; the Struggle for Social Citizenship and Self-determination'
Sapouna, L.; (1999) 'EU Migrant Women in Ireland; the Struggle for Social Citizenship and Self-determination' In: Lifelong Learning by Further Training- New Opportunities for Women? Experiences from a Transnational Study. [Details]
(1998)'Deinstitutionalisation in the Republic of Ireland:A Case for RE-definition?'
Leane, M & Sapouna, L; (1998) 'Deinstitutionalisation in the Republic of Ireland:A Case for RE-definition?' In: Mental Health Social Work in Ireland: Comparative Issies on Policy and Practice. [Details]
(1998)'Deinstitutionalisation in Ireland: A Case for Re-definition? '
Sapouna, L., Leane, M.; (1998) 'Deinstitutionalisation in Ireland: A Case for Re-definition? ' In: Mental Health and Social Work in Ireland: Comparative Issues in Policy and Practice . [Details]
(1998)'Inclusive Practice in Mental Health: Issues for Social Work Education'
Sapouna, L. and Leane, M.; (1998) 'Inclusive Practice in Mental Health: Issues for Social Work Education' In: Personal Social Services in Northern Ireland. [Details]
(1998)'Introduction to Themes: Self-Directed Groupwork'
Sapouna, L. and N. Lordan; (1998) 'Introduction to Themes: Self-Directed Groupwork' In: Δυναμική Ομάδας & Αλλαγή (Groups as Catalysts of Change). Athens: IAKE, Singular Publications. [Details]
(1997)'Transport Innovations and Local Governance in the City of Volos: a Case Study'
Sapouna, L.; (1997) 'Transport Innovations and Local Governance in the City of Volos: a Case Study' In: Evaluation of Technological Options to Deal with the Challenges Caused by the Saturation of Cities. EU: Centre for European Social Research. [Details]

Edited Books

 YearPublication
(2019)Inside out, outside in: Transforming mental health practices
H. Gijbels, L. Sapouna and G. Sidley (Ed.). (2019) Inside out, outside in: Transforming mental health practices Ross-on-Wye: PCCS Books. [Details]
(2006)Knowledge in Mental Health; Reclaiming the Social
Sapouna, L and Herrmann, P (Ed.). (2006) Knowledge in Mental Health; Reclaiming the Social Knowledge in Mental Health; Reclaiming the Social. New York: Nova Science Publications. [Details]

Peer Reviewed Journals

 YearPublication
(2020)'Service-user narratives in social work education; Co-production or co-option?'
Sapouna L. (2020) 'Service-user narratives in social work education; Co-production or co-option?'. Social Work Education, [DOI] [Details]
(2019)'Storytelling: An act of resistance or a commodity?'
O’ Donnell, A., Sapouna, L., Brosnan L. (2019) 'Storytelling: An act of resistance or a commodity?'. Journal of Ethics in Mental Health, Special Theme Issue VI: Disordering Social Inclusion: Ethics, Critiques, Collaborations, Futurities   [Details]
(2017)'‘Madness’ and activism in Ireland and Scotland, a dialogue'
Sapouna, Lydia; O'Donnell, Anne (2017) '‘Madness’ and activism in Ireland and Scotland, a dialogue'. Community Development Journal, 52 (3):524-534   [DOI] [Full Text] [Details]
(2016)'Social movements in mental health: the case of the Critical Voices Network Ireland'
Sapouna, L;Gijbels, H (2016) 'Social movements in mental health: the case of the Critical Voices Network Ireland'. Critical and Radical Social Work, 4 :397-402 [DOI] [Details]
(2016)'Education for critical practice in mental health:'
Lydia Sapouna (2016) 'Education for critical practice in mental health:'. Critical and Radical Social Work, [DOI] [Details]
(2014)'The transformative potential of the arts in mental health recovery – an Irish research project'
Sapouna, Lydia and Elisabeth (Rudie) Pamer (2014) 'The transformative potential of the arts in mental health recovery – an Irish research project'. Arts and Health, [DOI] [Details]
(2012)'Classic texts: Foucault, Michel. Madness and Civilization: A History of Insanity in the Age of Reason'
Lydia Sapouna (2012) 'Classic texts: Foucault, Michel. Madness and Civilization: A History of Insanity in the Age of Reason'. Community Development Journal, 47 (4):612-616   [Details]

Conference Publications

 YearPublication
(2014)Power to Communities: Healing Through Social Justice. International Conference
Gijbels, H. & Sapouna, L. (2014) Critical Voices Networks in Mental Health: Opportunities and Challenges Power to Communities: Healing Through Social Justice. International Conference Liverpool, United Kingdom, [Details]
(2013)De-Medicalising Health Care: Critical and Social Perspectives.1st International Summer School, Epirus Institute of Technology
Gijbels, H. & Sapouna, L (2013) De-Medicalising Health Care: Critical Perspective in Mental Health Care De-Medicalising Health Care: Critical and Social Perspectives.1st International Summer School, Epirus Institute of Technology Preveza, Greece, [Details]
(2013)De-Medicalising Health Care: Critical and Social Perspectives. 1st International Summer School, Epirus Institute of Technology
Sapouna, L. & Gijbels, H (2013) The Social model of Disability vs. the Medical model of Disability De-Medicalising Health Care: Critical and Social Perspectives. 1st International Summer School, Epirus Institute of Technology Preveza, Greece, [Details]
(2010)Changing Health, 6th International Conference in Social Work in Health and Mental health
Sapouna, L; (2010) Reflections on the Evaluation of a Community-Based Outreach Mental Health Project Changing Health, 6th International Conference in Social Work in Health and Mental health [Details]
(2010)Critical Positions on and Beyond Recovery
Sapouna, L., Brosnan, L., Fitzgibbon, N.; (2010) Recovery and Beyond: Implications for Mental Health Education Critical Positions on and Beyond Recovery [Details]
(2010)Changing Health, 6th International Conference in Social Work in Health and Mental Health
Sapouna, L; Brosnan, L; Fitzgibbon, N; (2010) Tell it Like it is¿: Service User Involvement in Social Work Education-The Experience from University College Cork Changing Health, 6th International Conference in Social Work in Health and Mental Health [Details]
(2009)Making Thriving a Reality; Towards and Beyond Mental Health Recovery
Sapouna L; Page, D; (2009) Meeting People in the Context of their Lives: Reflections on the Evaluation of an Outreach Community Mental Health Project Making Thriving a Reality; Towards and Beyond Mental Health Recovery [Details]
(2006)British Sociological Association- Medical Sociology Group Annual Conference 2006
Sapouna, L. ; (2006) Irish Mental Health Care; Reclaiming the Question of Institutionalisation British Sociological Association- Medical Sociology Group Annual Conference 2006 [Details]
(2005)Thinking Outside the Box: Cross-border Mental Health Conference by the Irish Asscociation of Social Workers and BASS
Sapouna, L.; (2005) Critical Reflection in Mental Health Education Thinking Outside the Box: Cross-border Mental Health Conference by the Irish Asscociation of Social Workers and BASS [Details]
(2005)Per Un'Europa Senza Manicomi; European Congress of Democratic Psychiatry
Sapouna, L.; (2005) Mental Health in Ireland; Where Institutionalisation is a Valid Concern Per Un'Europa Senza Manicomi; European Congress of Democratic Psychiatry [Details]
(2005)European Association of Social Work Conference, Lefkosia, Cyprus, 23-25 May 2005
Sapouna, L.; (2005) Mental Health and Social Exclusion European Association of Social Work Conference, Lefkosia, Cyprus, 23-25 May 2005 [Details]
(1999)European Association of Schools of Social Work Conference
Sapouna, L.; (1999) Anti-Opressive Practice in Mental Health; Issues for Social Work Education European Association of Schools of Social Work Conference [Details]
(1997)Mental Health Social Work in Ireland
Leane, M & Sapouna, L.; (1997) Inclusive Practice in Mental Health: Issues for Social Work Education . In: J. Park; J.Cambell; & R. Manktelow (1998) Personal Social Services in Northern Ireland, No 57, Social Services Inspectorate, Department of Health and Social Services, Belfast (0141-5484) eds. Mental Health Social Work in Ireland Ballyconnell, Co. Cavan, , 28-NOV-97 - 28-NOV-97 , pp.83-93 [Details]

Published Reports

 YearPublication
(2012)Beyond Diagnosis; The transformative potential of the arts in mental health recovery.
Sapouna Lydia & Pamer Rudie (2012) Beyond Diagnosis; The transformative potential of the arts in mental health recovery. Arts + Minds/University College Cork, Cork.   [Details]
(2008)Having Choices: An Evaluation of the Home Focus Project in West Cork.
Sapouna, L.; (2008) Having Choices: An Evaluation of the Home Focus Project in West Cork. Department of Applied Social Studies & HSE, University College Cork.   [Details]
(1997)Transport Innovations and Local Governance in the City of Volos: a Case Study in Evaluation of Technological Options to Deal with the Challenges Caused by the Saturation of Cities.
Sapouna, L.; (1997) Transport Innovations and Local Governance in the City of Volos: a Case Study in Evaluation of Technological Options to Deal with the Challenges Caused by the Saturation of Cities. Centre for European Social Research ACT-VILL: DGXII, Cork. [Details]
(1998)Comparative Analysis of Social Work Qualifications in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland; A Joint Project of the Central Council for Education and Training in Social Work (Northern Ireland) and the National Social Work Qualifications Board.
Sapouna, L.; (1998) Comparative Analysis of Social Work Qualifications in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland; A Joint Project of the Central Council for Education and Training in Social Work (Northern Ireland) and the National Social Work Qualifications Board. Central Council for Education and Training in Social Work (Northern Ireland) and the National Socia, Ireland. [Details]
(1997)The Joint European Project for Training of Welfare Professionals in the Institute of Applied Social Studies, University of Warsaw; A Final Evaluation.
Sapouna, L.; (1997) The Joint European Project for Training of Welfare Professionals in the Institute of Applied Social Studies, University of Warsaw; A Final Evaluation. Tempus, University of Warsaw. [Details]
(1996)A Progress Evaluation of the Joint European Project in the Institute of Applied Social Studies.
Sapouna, L.; (1996) A Progress Evaluation of the Joint European Project in the Institute of Applied Social Studies. Tempus, University of Warsaw. [Details]

Book Reviews

 YearPublication
(2012)Madness and Civilization: A History of Insanity in the Age of Reason.
Sapouna, L (2012) Madness and Civilization: A History of Insanity in the Age of Reason. Book Reviews [DOI] [Details]

Unpublished Reports

 YearPublication
(2007)Progress Report on the Sli Eile Housing project (Villa Maria).
Sapouna, L. ; (2007) Progress Report on the Sli Eile Housing project (Villa Maria). Unpublished Reports [Details]
(1999)Evaluation of the Socrates Dialogue Programme on Parent Education in Europe.
Sapouna, L., Moqvist, I.; (1999) Evaluation of the Socrates Dialogue Programme on Parent Education in Europe. Unpublished Reports [Details]
(1997)Transport Innovations and Local Governance in the City of Volos: a Case Study, in Evaluation of Technological Options to Deal with the Challenges Caused by the Saturation of Cities, pp. 185-228, ACT-VILL: DGXII, Centre for European Social Research, 1997. .
Sapouna, L; (1997) Transport Innovations and Local Governance in the City of Volos: a Case Study, in Evaluation of Technological Options to Deal with the Challenges Caused by the Saturation of Cities, pp. 185-228, ACT-VILL: DGXII, Centre for European Social Research, 1997. . Unpublished Reports [Details]
(1998)Comparative Analysis of Social Work Qualifications in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Sapouna, L; (1998) Comparative Analysis of Social Work Qualifications in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Unpublished Reports [Details]
(1995)Women Citizenship and European Community Law: the Gender Implications of the Free Movement Provisions; A Comparative Study Between five European Countries.
Sapouna, L., Mulcahy, M.; (1995) Women Citizenship and European Community Law: the Gender Implications of the Free Movement Provisions; A Comparative Study Between five European Countries. Unpublished Reports [Details]

Professional Activities

Employment

 EmployerPositionFrom / To
Applied Social Studies, UCC College Lecturer01-SEP-94 / 31-DEC-10

Education

 YearInstitutionQualificationSubject
2023University College Cork PhDInclusion paradoxes in mental health: Critical reflections on knowledge, (in)justice and privilege
1993UCC MSocSc''
1990TEI Athens Bachelor of Social Work''

Honours and Awards

 YearTitleAwarding Body
2021Teaching Hero Award National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in association with the Union of Students in Ireland (USI).
2012Staff Recognition Awards (exceptional citizen jointly with Dr Harry Gijbels) UCC

Conference Contributions

 YearPublication
(2023)Μαθαίνοντας-Ξεμαθαίνοντας: Διάλογοι πάνω στην Τρέλλα (Learning-Unlearning: Dialogues on Madness),
Lydia Sapouna (2023) Μαθαίνoντας από την τρέλα: Εμπειρίες και προβληματισμοί πάνω στην εκπαίδευση (Learning from Madness: Experiences from and Reflections on Education. [Keynote Speaker], Μαθαίνοντας-Ξεμαθαίνοντας: Διάλογοι πάνω στην Τρέλλα (Learning-Unlearning: Dialogues on Madness), Athens . [Details]
(2022)‘Critical perspectives on the lived experience of distress and mental health services’,
Lydia Sapouna and Harry Gijbels (2022) ‘Critical perspectives on the lived experience of distress and mental health services’ 14th Annual critical Perspectives Conference. [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], ‘Critical perspectives on the lived experience of distress and mental health services’, University College Cork . [Details]
(2021)“Creating safe spaces in mental health systems: critical perspectives”,
Lydia Sapouna and Harry Gijbels (2021) “Creating safe spaces in mental health systems: critical perspectives” 13th Annual critical Perspectives Conference. [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], “Creating safe spaces in mental health systems: critical perspectives”, University College Cork . [Details]
(2020)Social Work Educators Research Forum,
Lydia Sapouna (2020) User narratives in social work education: co-production or co-option?. [Oral Presentation], Social Work Educators Research Forum, University College Cork . [Details]
(2020)Remaining critical about mental health matters in pandemic crises,
Lydia Sapouna and Harry Gijbels (2020) Remaining critical about mental health matters in pandemic crises 12th Annual critical Perspectives Conference. [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], Remaining critical about mental health matters in pandemic crises, University College Cork . [Details]
(2019)Critical perspectives on stigma, shame and the Irish welfare imaginary,
Lydia Sapouna (2019) De-contextualising madness and distress; a critical consideration of anti-stigma initiatives and recovery narratives in Ireland. [Oral Presentation], Critical perspectives on stigma, shame and the Irish welfare imaginary, University College Cork . [Details]
(2019)Critical perspectives on stigma, shame and the Irish welfare imaginary,
Lydia Sapouna (2019) De-contextualising madness and distress; a critical consideration of anti-stigma initiatives and recovery narratives in Ireland. [Oral Presentation], Critical perspectives on stigma, shame and the Irish welfare imaginary, University College Cork . [Details]
(2019)Challenging mental health systems: critical perspectives from inside out and outside in’,
Lydia Sapouna and Harry Gijbels (2019) Challenging mental health systems: critical perspectives from inside out and outside in’ 11th Annual Critical Perspectives Conference. [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], Challenging mental health systems: critical perspectives from inside out and outside in’, University College Cork . [Details]
(2018)Social Work Education and Social Development,
Lydia Sapouna (2018) Service-User narratives in mental health education: co-production or co-option?. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Social Work Education and Social Development, RDS, Dublin . [Details]
(2018)Critical perspectives on and beyond ‘recovery’: ten years on,
Lydia Sapouna and Harry Gijbels (2018) Critical perspectives on and beyond ‘recovery’: ten years on 10th Annual Critical perspectives Conference. [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], Critical perspectives on and beyond ‘recovery’: ten years on, University College Cork . [Details]
(2017)‘Critical perspectives on and beyond “change” in mental health services’ 9th Annual Critical Perspectives Conference,
Lydia Sapouna and Harry Gijbels (2017) Critical perspectives on and beyond activism and acts of resistance…8th Annual Critical Perspectives Conference. [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], ‘Critical perspectives on and beyond “change” in mental health services’ 9th Annual Critical Perspectives Conference, University College Cork . [Details]
(2016)Critical perspectives on and beyond activism and acts of resistance…,
Lydia Sapouna, Liz Brosnan and Anne O'Donnell (2016) Storytelling an act of resistance or a commodity?. [Oral Presentation], Critical perspectives on and beyond activism and acts of resistance…, University College Cork . [Details]
(2016)Critical perspectives on and beyond activism and acts of resistance…,
Lydia Sapouna and Harry Gijbels (2016) Critical perspectives on and beyond activism and acts of resistance…8th Annual Critical Perspectives Conference. [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], Critical perspectives on and beyond activism and acts of resistance…, University College Cork . [Details]
(2015)‘Critical perspectives on and beyond the therapy industry’,
Lydia Sapouna and Harry Gijbels (2015) ‘Critical perspectives on and beyond the therapy industry’ 7th Annual Critical Perspectives Conference. [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], ‘Critical perspectives on and beyond the therapy industry’, University College Cork . [Details]
(2015)Psychopolitics in the 21st Century,
Lydia Sapouna and Harry Gijbels (2015) Social Movements in Mental Health: the Case of the Critical Voices Network Ireland. [Oral Presentation], Psychopolitics in the 21st Century, Liverpool Hope University , 10-JUN-15 - 10-JUN-15. [Details]
(2014)Critical perspectives on and beyond psychiatric diagnoses’,
Lydia Sapouna and Harry Gijbels (2014) Critical perspectives on and beyond psychiatric diagnoses’ 6th Annual Critical Perspectives Conference. [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], Critical perspectives on and beyond psychiatric diagnoses’, University College Cork . [Details]
(2013)Meanings of madness; critical and creative perspectives’,
Lydia Sapouna and Harry Gijbels (2013) Meanings of madness; critical and creative perspectives’ 5th Annual Critical Perspectives Conference. [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], Meanings of madness; critical and creative perspectives’, University College Cork . [Details]
(2012)Critical and Creative Responses to Experiences of Trauma and Distress,
Lydia Sapouna (2012) Mental Health Conference (Co-organiser). [Conference Organising Committee Member], Critical and Creative Responses to Experiences of Trauma and Distress, UCC , 01-MAR-12 - 16-NOV-12. [Details]
(2012)4th Qualitative Research in Mental Health,
Lydia Sapouna (2012) The transformative potential of arts in mental health recovery;reflections on the Arts + Minds research project. [Oral Presentation], 4th Qualitative Research in Mental Health, Nottingham UK , 03-JUL-12 - 05-JUL-12. [Details]
(2011)Medicating Human Distress: Concerns, Critiques and Solutions,
Lydia Sapouna, Rudie Pamer & Carol Tobin (2011) Beyond diagnosis: the transformative potential of arts in mental health. [Oral Presentation], Medicating Human Distress: Concerns, Critiques and Solutions, UCC , 16-NOV-11 - 17-NOV-11. [Details]
(2011)Domestic Violence and Mental health; A European Perspective,
Lydia Sapouna (2011) Domestic Violence in Ireland; Policy, context and key concerns. [Invited Oral Presentation], Domestic Violence and Mental health; A European Perspective, University of Hertforthshire, UK , 12-SEP-11 - 12-SEP-11. [Details]
(2011)Medicating Human Distress; Concerns Critiques and Solutions,
Lydia Sapouna (2011) Mental Health Conference co-organiser. [Conference Organising Committee Member], Medicating Human Distress; Concerns Critiques and Solutions, University College Cork , 03-MAR-11 - 18-NOV-11. [Details]
(2010)Critical Perspectives on and Beyond Recovery,
Sapouna, L., Gijbels, H.; (2010) Mental Health Recovery Conference (co-organiser). [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], Critical Perspectives on and Beyond Recovery, University College Cork , 10-NOV-10 - 11-NOV-10. [Details]
(2010)Critical Positions on and Beyond Recovery,
L. Sapouna, Brosnan, L., Fitzgibbon, N. ; (2010) Recovery and Beyond: Implications for Mental Health Education. [Oral Presentation], Critical Positions on and Beyond Recovery, University College Cork , 11-NOV-10 - 11-NOV-10. [Details]
(2010)Changing Health, 6th International Conference on Social Work in Health and Mental Health,
Sapouna, L. Brosnan, L., Fitzgibbon, N. ; (2010) Tell it Like it is: Service User Involvement in Social Work Education-The Experience from University College Cork. [Oral Presentation], Changing Health, 6th International Conference on Social Work in Health and Mental Health, Dublin , 29-JUN-10 - 29-JUN-10. [Details]
(2010)Changing Health, 6th International Conference in Health and Mental Health,
Sapouna, L.; (2010) Reflections on the Evaluation of a Community-Based, Outreach Mental Health Project. [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], Changing Health, 6th International Conference in Health and Mental Health, Dublin , 01-JUL-10 - 01-JUL-10. [Details]
(2010)Identity in Mental Health Recovery,
Sapouna, L.; (2010) Issues of Identity in Mental Health Recovery Narratives; an Irish Experience. [Oral Presentation], Identity in Mental Health Recovery, Anglia Ruskin University , 06-MAY-10 - 06-MAY-10. [Details]
(2009)Recovery Beyond Psychiatric Care,
Sapouna, L.; (2009) Mental Health Conference. [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], Recovery Beyond Psychiatric Care, University College Cork , 08-MAY-09 - 08-MAY-09. [Details]
(2009)Making Thriving a Reality; Towards and Beyond Mental Health Recovery,
Sapouna, L., Gijbels, H. ; (2009) Mental Health Recovery Conference (co-organiser). [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], Making Thriving a Reality; Towards and Beyond Mental Health Recovery, University College Cork , 04-NOV-09 - 05-NOV-09. [Details]
(2009)Making Thriving a Reality: Towards and Beyond Mental Health Recovery,
Sapouna, L., Page, D ; (2009) Meeting People in the Context of their Lives. [Oral Presentation], Making Thriving a Reality: Towards and Beyond Mental Health Recovery, University College Cork , 04-NOV-09 - 05-NOV-09. [Details]
(2009)Panel of Assessors, National Social Work Qualifications Board (NSWQB),
Sapouna, L.; (2009) Service user involvement in social work education: the experience from UCC. [Plenary Lecture], Panel of Assessors, National Social Work Qualifications Board (NSWQB), Dublin , 18-NOV-09 - 18-NOV-09. [Details]
(2009)Alternatives to Hospital for People Experiencing Mental Distress,
Sapouna, L.; (2009) The Irish experience; reflections on the evaluation of the Sli Eile housing project. [Plenary Lecture], Alternatives to Hospital for People Experiencing Mental Distress, Northampton UK , 31-MAR-09 - 31-MAR-09. [Details]
(2008)Launch of Home Focus Mental Health Project,
Sapouna, L. ; (2008) Having Choices; An Evaluation of the Home Focus Research project in West Cork. [Plenary Lecture], Launch of Home Focus Mental Health Project, Bantry, West Cork , 09-OCT-08 - 09-OCT-08. [Details]
(2008)Mental Health A Vision for Supportive Communities,
Sapouna, L.; (2008) Conference Organisation. [Conference Organising Committee Member], Mental Health A Vision for Supportive Communities, University College Cork , 02-MAY-08 - 02-MAY-08. [Details]
(2008)Mental Health A Vision for Supportive Communities,
Sapouna, L.; (2008) (opening address). [Oral Presentation], Mental Health A Vision for Supportive Communities, University College Cork , 02-MAY-08 - 02-MAY-08. [Details]
(2008)Slí Eile - Celebrating Another Way To Mental Health Recovery Conference,
Sapouna, L.; (2008) In a house you are actually living¿; The Evaluation of the Sli Eile Housing project. [Oral Presentation], Slí Eile - Celebrating Another Way To Mental Health Recovery Conference, Charleville, Co. Cork , 18-APR-08 - 18-APR-08. [Details]
(2008)Multidisciplinary European Conference on Mental Health Innovations,
Sapouna, L.; (2008) Assertive Outreach in Rural Ireland. [Oral Presentation], Multidisciplinary European Conference on Mental Health Innovations, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford , 20-FEB-08 - 20-FEB-08. [Details]
(2007)William Thompson Public Lecture Series,
Burns, K., Hayes, M. N., Herrmann, P., Leo, A., Lynch, D., Murray, M. and Sapouna, L.; (2007) The Common Ground Amongst Social Professions in Achieving Social Justice: Dream, Wish or Illusion?. [Oral Presentation], William Thompson Public Lecture Series, University College Cork , 08-JAN-07 - 08-JAN-07. [Details]
(2007)Mental Health, Human Rights and the Community,
Sapouna, L.; (2007) Conference Organisation. [Conference Organising Committee Member], Mental Health, Human Rights and the Community, University College Cork , 03-MAY-07 - 03-MAY-07. [Details]
(2007)Multidisciplinary European Conference on Risk & Mental Health,
Sapouna, L.; (2007) Risk Assessment and Management in Irish Mental Health. [Oral Presentation], Multidisciplinary European Conference on Risk & Mental Health, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford , 14-FEB-07 - 14-FEB-07. [Details]
(2007)Mental Health, Human Rights and the Community,
Sapouna, L.; (2007) Opening address to the fourth mental health innovations conference. [Oral Presentation], Mental Health, Human Rights and the Community, University College Cork , 03-MAY-07 - 03-MAY-07. [Details]
(2006)Third Mental Health Innovations Conference,
Sapouna, L; (2006) Towards Recovery Oriented Mental Health Services. [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], Third Mental Health Innovations Conference, University College Cork , 27-APR-06 - 27-APR-06. [Details]
(2006)European Conference Series on Mental Health Innovations,
Sapouna, L.; (2006) Recovery Initiatives in Ireland. [Oral Presentation], European Conference Series on Mental Health Innovations, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford , 15-FEB-06 - 15-FEB-06. [Details]
(2006)Mental Health Recovery Conference,
Sapouna, L; (2006) Conceptual and Practice Approaches to REcovery. [Oral Presentation], Mental Health Recovery Conference, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire , 16-FEB-06 - 16-FEB-06. [Details]
(2006)Policy, Promises and Practice; what Progress?,
Sapouna, L.; (2006) Conference Organisation. [Conference Organising Committee Member], Policy, Promises and Practice; what Progress?, University College Cork , 01-NOV-06 - 01-NOV-06. [Details]
(2006)Towards Recovery Oriented Mental Health Services,
Sapouna, L.; (2006) Conference Organisation. [Conference Organising Committee Member], Towards Recovery Oriented Mental Health Services, University College Cork , 27-APR-06 - 27-APR-06. [Details]
(2006)European Conference on Mental Health Innovations,
Sapouna, L; (2006) Recovery Initiatives in Ireland. [Oral Presentation], European Conference on Mental Health Innovations, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford , 15-FEB-06 - 15-FEB-06. [Details]
(2006)Mental health recovery conference,
Sapouna, L.; (2006) Conceptual and Practice Approaches to Recovery. [Oral Presentation], Mental health recovery conference, University of Hertfordshire, Herefordshire , 16-FEB-06 - 16-FEB-06. [Details]
(2006)Towards Recovery Oriented Mental Health Services,
Sapouna, L.; (2006) Opening address to the third mental health innovations conference. [Oral Presentation], Towards Recovery Oriented Mental Health Services, University College Cork , 27-APR-06 - 27-APR-06. [Details]
(2006)British Sociological Association- Medical Sociology Group- Annual conference,
Sapouna, L.; (2006) Institutionalisation and Irish Mental Health. [Oral Presentation], British Sociological Association- Medical Sociology Group- Annual conference, Edinburgh , 01-SEP-06 - 01-SEP-06. [Details]
(2005)Conference of Democratic Psychiatry: Europe without Mental Institutions, Mental Health as a Collective Problem,
Sapouna, L; (2005) Mental Health in Ireland; Reclaiming the Question of Institutionalisation. [Oral Presentation], Conference of Democratic Psychiatry: Europe without Mental Institutions, Mental Health as a Collective Problem, Turin, Italy , 10-NOV-05 - 12-NOV-05. [Details]
(2005)Cross-border Mental Health Social Work Conference: Thinking Outside the Box, jointly organized by the Irish Association of Social Workers and the British Association of Social workers,
Sapouna, L.; (2005) Understanding Mental Distress through Critical Reflection; Issues for Social Work Education. [Oral Presentation], Cross-border Mental Health Social Work Conference: Thinking Outside the Box, jointly organized by the Irish Association of Social Workers and the British Association of Social workers, Cavan , 20-OCT-05 - 21-OCT-05. [Details]
(2005)International Conference jointly organised by the International Association of Social Workers, European Association of Schools of Social Work and Cyprus Association of Social Workers,
Sapouna, L; (2005) Mental Health and Social Exclusion; Reclaiming the Question of Institutionalisation. [Oral Presentation], International Conference jointly organised by the International Association of Social Workers, European Association of Schools of Social Work and Cyprus Association of Social Workers, Lefcosia, Cyprus , 23-MAY-05 - 25-MAY-05. [Details]
(2005)Second Mental Health Innovations Conference, jointly organised by the Department of Applied Social Studies, UCC and SWAMH (Social Workers in Adult Mental Health,
Sapouna, L; (2005) Shifting the Balance of Power in MEntal Health Work; Who are the Experts? (Opening Address). [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], Second Mental Health Innovations Conference, jointly organised by the Department of Applied Social Studies, UCC and SWAMH (Social Workers in Adult Mental Health, Cork , 26-APR-05 - 26-APR-05. [Details]
(2005)International Conference jointly organised by the International Associaltion of Social Workers, European Association of Schools of Social Work and Cyprus Association of Social Workers,
Sapouna, L.; (2005) Mental Health and Social Exclusion. [Oral Presentation], International Conference jointly organised by the International Associaltion of Social Workers, European Association of Schools of Social Work and Cyprus Association of Social Workers, Lefcosia Cyprus , 23-MAY-05 - 25-MAY-05. [Details]
(2005)Shifting the Balance of Power in Mental Health Work Who are the Experts?,
Sapouna, L.; (2005) Opening Address to the Second Mental Health Innovations Conference, jointly organised by the Department of Applied Social Studies, University College Cork and SWAMH (Social Workers in Adult Mental health),. [Oral Presentation], Shifting the Balance of Power in Mental Health Work Who are the Experts?, University College Cork , 26-APR-05 - 26-APR-05. [Details]
(2005)European Conference Series on Mental Health Innovations,
Sapouna, L.; (2005) Involving service Users in Irish Mental Health Services. [Oral Presentation], European Conference Series on Mental Health Innovations, University College Cork , 02-FEB-05 - 02-FEB-05. [Details]
(2005)Conference of Democratic Psychiatry: Europe without Mental Institutions, Mental Health as a Collective Problem,
Sapouna, L.; (2005) Mental Health in Ireland; Where Institutionalisation is a Valid Concern. [Oral Presentation], Conference of Democratic Psychiatry: Europe without Mental Institutions, Mental Health as a Collective Problem, Turin, Italy , 10-NOV-05 - 12-NOV-05. [Details]
(2005)Dignity; a stepping stone to recovery (with Cork Advocacy Network),
Sapouna, L.; (2005) Conference Organisation. [Conference Organising Committee Member], Dignity; a stepping stone to recovery (with Cork Advocacy Network), UCC , 01-FEB-05 - 01-FEB-05. [Details]
(2005)Shifting the Balance of Power in Mental Health Work Who are the Experts?,
Sapouna, L.; (2005) Conference Organisation. [Conference Organising Committee Member], Shifting the Balance of Power in Mental Health Work Who are the Experts?, University College Cork , 26-APR-05 - 26-APR-05. [Details]
(2004)European Perspectives on Mental Health,
Sapouna, L.; (2004) Irish Perspectives on Mental Health. [Invited Oral Presentation], European Perspectives on Mental Health, Cambridge, UK , 11-MAR-04 - 12-MAR-04. [Details]
(2004)Mental Health Innovations Conference,
Sapouna, L.; (2004) Conference Organisation. [Conference Organising Committee Member], Mental Health Innovations Conference, UCC , 29-APR-04 - 29-APR-04. [Details]
(2004)William Thompson Lecture Series,
Sapouna, L.; (2004) Mental Distress in Adulthood-Between Illness and the Right to Uncertainty. [Oral Presentation], William Thompson Lecture Series, University College Cork , 09-FEB-04 - 09-FEB-04. [Details]
(2003)European Mental Health Seminar Series,
Sapouna, L. ; (2003) Mental health reform; the Irish case. [Invited Oral Presentation], European Mental Health Seminar Series, Cambridge UK , 12-MAR-03 - 14-MAR-03. [Details]
(2003)Socrates European Conference on Good Practice in Mental Health,
Sapouna, L. ; (2003) Irish Mental Health Care: Where Evidence of Neglect Sustains Procrastination. [Plenary Lecture], Socrates European Conference on Good Practice in Mental Health, Turin, Italy , 04-MAY-03 - 07-MAY-03. [Details]
(2002)Risk Discources in Mental Health; European Perspectives,
Sapouna, L.; (2002) Risk Disources in Social Work; Implications for Mental Health. [Plenary Lecture], Risk Discources in Mental Health; European Perspectives, University College Cork , 09-MAY-02 - 10-MAY-02. [Details]
(2002)European perspectives in Mental Health Seminar Series,
Sapouna, L. ; (2002) Irish Perspectives on Mental Health Care. [Invited Oral Presentation], European perspectives in Mental Health Seminar Series, Cambridge UK , 13-MAR-02 - 14-MAR-02. [Details]
(2002)Socrates European Conferenc on Risk Discourses in Mental Health,
Sapouna, L; (2002) Risk Discourses in Social Work; Implications for Mental Health. [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], Socrates European Conferenc on Risk Discourses in Mental Health, Cork , 01-MAY-02 - 01-MAY-02. [Details]
(2001)A Multicountry Focus on Mental Health Promotion and Prevention,
Sapouna, L. ; (2001) Struggles and Challenges in Establishing Mental Health Promotion in Ireland. [Plenary Lecture], A Multicountry Focus on Mental Health Promotion and Prevention, Cambridge & Chelsmford UK , 15-MAR-01 - 16-MAR-01. [Details]
(2000)European Perspectives in Mental health Conference Series,
Sapouna, L.; (2000) Mental Health Care in Ireland; a Debate of Dislocation. [Oral Presentation], European Perspectives in Mental health Conference Series, Cambridge, UK , 01-MAR-00 - 03-MAR-00. [Details]
(2000)Applied Social Studies Curriculum-a Tempus Project,
Sapouina, L. ; (2000) Social Work Education in Ireland. [Invited Oral Presentation], Applied Social Studies Curriculum-a Tempus Project, University College Cork , 16-MAY-00 - 16-MAY-00. [Details]
(1999)European Association of Schools of Social Work Conference,
Sapouna, L. ; (1999) Anti-Oppressive Practice in Mental Health; Current Issues for Social Work Education in the Republic of Ireland. [Oral Presentation], European Association of Schools of Social Work Conference, Helsinki, Finland , 10-JUN-99 - 13-JUN-99. [Details]
(1999)Socrates Dialogue International Conference,
Sapouna, L., Moqvist I. ; (1999) Parent Education in Europe; a Report on the Evaluation of the Socrates Dialogue Program on Parent Education. [Plenary Lecture], Socrates Dialogue International Conference, London , 06-MAR-99 - 08-MAR-99. [Details]
(1998)Socrates Transnational Conference,
Sapouna, L., and Moqvist, I; (1998) Evaluation Issues for the Socrates Dialogue Programme on Parent Education in Europe. [Oral Presentation], Socrates Transnational Conference, Nafpaktos, Greece , 14-FEB-98 - 17-FEB-98. [Details]
(1997)Mental Health and Social Work in Ireland,
Sapouna, L. and Leane, M.; (1997) Inclusive Practice in Mental Health: Issues for Social Work Education. [Oral Presentation], Mental Health and Social Work in Ireland, Cavan , 28-NOV-97 - 28-NOV-97. [Details]
(1997)Erasmus Groupwork Conference,
Sapouna, L. and Lordan, N.; (1997) Self-Directed Groupwork: Introduction to Themes. [Oral Presentation], Erasmus Groupwork Conference, Athens , 01-MAY-97 - 01-MAY-97. [Details]

Languages

 LanguageReadingWritingSpeaking
Greek FluentFluentFluent

Journal Activities

 JournalRoleTo / From
European Journal Of Social Work Peer Reviewer-
Community Development Journal Peer Reviewer-
Critical And Radical Social Work Peer Reviewer-

Teaching Activities

Teaching Interests

I am currently the director of the BSW programme and a member of the BSW team in the School of Applied Social Studies.  I currently teach and co-ordinate modules on mental health on:  the second year of the BSW programme (SS2216), the first year of the MSW programme (SS6107), the third year of the BSocSc and BYCW programmes and the Higher Diploma in Social Policy (SS3016), the MSoc Policy (SS6315).  I also contribute to the Masters in Voluntary & Community Sector Management (SS6606). I teach social work theory on the first year of the BSW programme (S1202). I supervise research at postgraduate and undergraduate level (SS4214).

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University College Cork

Coláiste na hOllscoile Corcaigh

College Road, Cork T12 K8AF

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