Montsheng Letsoalo | Psychology | Editorial Board Member

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Dr. Montsheng Letsoalo | Psychology | Editorial Board Member

Trauma Neuro Institute of South Africa | South Africa

Dr. Montsheng Letsoalo is a distinguished social neuroscientist, educator, researcher, and advocate with expertise in trauma, mental wellness, and cognitive-behavioral sciences. She holds a PhD and is currently pursuing a second doctorate, reflecting her dedication to advancing knowledge in neuroscience and psychology. As the founder of the Resonance Retention Theory and the Mo-Lets Method, she has developed pioneering frameworks for trauma retention and healing, while her recently published Neurodivergent Attachment Theory redefines attachment dynamics through the lens of neurodiversity. Dr. Letsoalo’s research on “Healing Trauma Through Lifestyle Medicine Using a Neuroscientific Approach” was selected for presentation at ACLM25, underscoring her leadership in integrative trauma recovery. She has delivered lectures and keynote addresses globally, including at WCASET and the International Wellness Summit in Kuala Lumpur, and actively contributes to initiatives addressing gender-based violence (GBV), mental health advocacy, and community empowerment. Alongside her academic and advocacy work, she serves as a freelance AI trainer at Mindrif AI, applying her expertise to ethical and culturally relevant mental health technologies, and as a peer reviewer for Medtigo Medical Network, ensuring scientific rigor in interdisciplinary research. She has also taught internationally, including at Kasetsart University in Thailand and Education First in Indonesia, while leading GBV-focused programs as CEO of Stop Gender Based Violence NPC in South Africa. A prolific course developer, program facilitator, and public health advocate, she integrates neuroscience with education, wellness, and social justice to design evidence-based interventions that foster resilience and healing. Widely recognized for her leadership, global collaborations, and innovative thinking, Dr. Letsoalo continues to bridge the gap between trauma recovery, neuroscience, technology, and advocacy, empowering individuals, communities, and institutions with transformative tools for growth and well-being.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • Letsoalo, M. (2025). Neurodivergent attachment theory. SSRN, 5264844.

  • Letsoalo, M. (2025). The Neurodivergent Romantic Trajectories Model™ (NRTM): Rethinking love beyond neurotypical norms. SSRN, 5382591.

María José Montaño Zuñiga | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. María José Montaño Zuñiga
l Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Universidad Manuela Beltran | United States

Mrs. María José Montaño Zuñiga is a dedicated psychologist and independent researcher recognized for her strong leadership, communication, and commitment to social transformation, mental health, and human rights advocacy. A graduate in Psychology from Universidad Manuela Beltrán, Bogotá, she also holds advanced certifications in Forensic Psychology, Suicide Prevention and Intervention, and Psychological First Aid, complemented by training from international institutions such as the Supreme Court of Justice of Mexico, UNICEF, and the Pan American Health Organization. Her professional journey spans diverse contexts—clinical, psychosocial, legal, and forensic—with significant contributions to the Defensoría del Pueblo, where she worked on human rights verification for incarcerated populations and the development of post-penitentiary psychosocial programs. She has presented research at national conferences, including the Congreso Colombiano de Psicología, and achieved first place at the VI Encuentro de Semilleros de Investigación for her study on post-penitentiary interventions. Her current research, accepted for publication in the Journal of Forensic Psychology Research and Practice (Taylor & Francis, 2025), explores psychosocial, criminal, and penitentiary factors influencing ex-inmates’ attitudes toward crime. Through an international cultural exchange as an Au Pair in the United States (2024–2026), she continues to develop intercultural communication, adaptability, and child development competencies, embodying ethical, human-centered practice and a passion for transformative psychology.

Profile: Orcid 

Featured Publication 

Montaño-Zuñiga, M. J., Mendivelso-Gómez, L. F., Suescún-Torres, P. D., & Botero-Giraldo, M. P. (2025). Psychosocial, criminal, and penitentiary factors associated with attitudes toward crime in Colombian ex-offenders. Journal of Forensic Psychology Research and Practice. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1080/24732850.2025.2563230

Sagnik Chakraborty | Psychology | Young Scientist Award

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Mr. Sagnik Chakraborty | Psychology
| Young Scientist Award

Banaras Hindu University | India

Mr. Sagnik Chakraborty is an emerging psychologist from Siliguri, West Bengal, currently pursuing his M.Sc. in Psychology at Banaras Hindu University (2025–2027) after completing a B.Sc. in Psychology from the Central University of Sikkim . He has a strong academic record, scoring . Sagnik has demonstrated research aptitude through publications, including the development of the Bharatiya Geriatric Loneliness Scale in the Indian Journal of Gerontology and a study on internet multitasking and problem-solving ability in the International Journal of Indian Psychology. He has presented his work at multiple state-level conferences, earning recognition as Best Presenter for his paper on the Hindi version of the UCLA Loneliness Scale and presenting research on the BGLS at a conference on elder well-being. His professional experience includes a 180-hour internship on addiction at Serenity Home, a rehabilitation center in Gangtok, Sikkim. Fluent in English, Hindi, and Bengali, Sagnik combines academic excellence with practical experience, research engagement, and strong communication skills. Beyond academics, he enjoys teaching, singing, and playing cricket and table tennis, reflecting a well-rounded personality with dedication to both psychological research and community engagement.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publication

  • Chakraborty, S., Ashaparna, A., & Rai, S. (2025). Development of Bharatiya Geriatric Loneliness Scale. Indian Journal of Gerontology, 39(4), 571–588.

  • Chakraborty, S. (2025). Internet multitasking and problem-solving ability: A correlational study among college and university students in Sikkim. International Journal of Indian Psychology, 13(3), 3106–3115. https://doi.org/10.25215/1303.280

Montsheng Letsoalo | Psychology | Best Faculty Award

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Dr. Montsheng Letsoalo | Psychology | Best Faculty Award

Kasertsart University| South Africa

Dr. Montsheng Letsoalo is a distinguished social neuroscientist, educator, researcher, and advocate with expertise in trauma, mental wellness, and cognitive-behavioral sciences. She holds a PhD and is currently pursuing a second doctorate, reflecting her dedication to advancing knowledge in neuroscience and psychology. As the founder of the Resonance Retention Theory and the Mo-Lets Method, she has developed pioneering frameworks for trauma retention and healing, while her recently published Neurodivergent Attachment Theory redefines attachment dynamics through the lens of neurodiversity. Dr. Letsoalo’s research on “Healing Trauma Through Lifestyle Medicine Using a Neuroscientific Approach” was selected for presentation at ACLM25, underscoring her leadership in integrative trauma recovery. She has delivered lectures and keynote addresses globally, including at WCASET and the International Wellness Summit in Kuala Lumpur, and actively contributes to initiatives addressing gender-based violence (GBV), mental health advocacy, and community empowerment. Alongside her academic and advocacy work, she serves as a freelance AI trainer at Mindrif AI, applying her expertise to ethical and culturally relevant mental health technologies, and as a peer reviewer for Medtigo Medical Network, ensuring scientific rigor in interdisciplinary research. She has also taught internationally, including at Kasetsart University in Thailand and Education First in Indonesia, while leading GBV-focused programs as CEO of Stop Gender Based Violence NPC in South Africa. A prolific course developer, program facilitator, and public health advocate, she integrates neuroscience with education, wellness, and social justice to design evidence-based interventions that foster resilience and healing. Widely recognized for her leadership, global collaborations, and innovative thinking, Dr. Letsoalo continues to bridge the gap between trauma recovery, neuroscience, technology, and advocacy, empowering individuals, communities, and institutions with transformative tools for growth and well-being.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • Letsoalo, M. (2025). Neurodivergent attachment theory. SSRN, 5264844.

  • Letsoalo, M. (2025). The Neurodivergent Romantic Trajectories Model™ (NRTM): Rethinking love beyond neurotypical norms. SSRN, 5382591.

Reza Khojasteh Mehr | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Reza Khojasteh Mehr | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Iran

Dr. Reza Khojasteh Mehr is a distinguished academic and researcher in family psychology with a robust educational background, extensive teaching experience, and notable research contributions. His work focuses on marital relationships, equity in marriage, forgiveness, and tolerance, integrating both empirical research and theory development. With over 20 years of academic and professional experience, he has published extensively in reputable journals, authored books, and contributed to family psychology through validated scales and theories. He is also actively involved in clinical practice and administrative roles, reflecting a well-rounded career.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Google Scholar

🎓Education

Dr. Khojasteh Mehr’s academic journey reflects his deep dedication to psychology. He earned his B.A. in Psychology from Isfahan University in 1989 and his M.A. in Psychology from the University of Tehran in 1993, where he was recognized as a Distinguished Student. He completed his Ph.D. in Family Psychology in 2006 at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, with a dissertation titled “Personality Characteristics, Social Skills, Attachment Styles, and Demographic Characteristics as Predictors of Success and Failure in Intact and Divorce-Seeking Couples.” His academic pursuits were complemented by his translation and authorship of textbooks that contribute to the understanding of family psychology in Persian-speaking communities. His educational background combines a strong theoretical foundation with a commitment to cultural relevance, positioning him as a leading figure in family therapy and psychology education in Iran and beyond.

💼Experience

Dr. Khojasteh Mehr’s career spans teaching, research, and clinical practice. Starting as a Junior Lecturer at Shahid Chamran University in 1993, he rose to the rank of Full Professor by 2016. His teaching repertoire includes courses such as social psychology, family psychology, and research methodology, catering to both undergraduate and graduate students. In clinical settings, he has been a family psychologist and counselor since 2006, applying his research findings to real-life challenges. Administratively, he served as Dean of the Faculty of Education and Psychology (2006–2008) and Head of the Counseling Department (2008–2011). He has also held editorial roles for journals like the Journal of Family Psychology and Journal of Applied Counseling. His ability to balance academic, administrative, and clinical responsibilities underscores his versatile expertise in advancing psychology as both a science and a practice.

🏆Awards and Honors

Dr. Khojasteh Mehr has received numerous accolades recognizing his academic and professional excellence. As a student, he earned the Distinguished Student Award in 1993 at the University of Tehran, highlighting his outstanding academic achievements. In 2016, he was named a Distinguished Researcher by Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz for his contributions to family psychology research. Beyond institutional awards, his active involvement in organizations like the American Psychological Association and the Society for Family Psychology reflects his recognition on an international scale. These honors affirm his dual commitment to advancing scholarly research and contributing to applied psychology. His work bridges cultural contexts, bringing insights from Iranian society into global discussions on family dynamics. These achievements collectively emphasize his impact as a thought leader and innovator in psychology.

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Khojasteh Mehr’s research centers on understanding the complexities of marital and family relationships. He has extensively studied themes such as equity, sacrifice, forgiveness, and tolerance within marriages, developing culturally relevant theories and interventions. His pioneering Tolerance in Spouses’ Relations Theory combines empirical rigor with insights from Iranian cultural and religious values. A significant part of his work involves developing and validating psychological scales to measure marital dynamics, including the Tolerance in Spouses’ Relations Scale and Religious Marital Style Scales for both husbands and wives. Dr. Khojasteh Mehr is also interested in interventions that promote marital quality, as evidenced by his studies on forgiveness training and equity-based therapy. His work bridges theory and practice, providing actionable tools for both therapists and couples, making him a leading voice in family psychology.

Conclusion

Dr. Reza Khojasteh Mehr stands out as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his profound contributions to family psychology, commitment to advancing the field, and dedication to bridging theory and practice. While there are opportunities for broader international collaboration and outreach, his innovative research, leadership, and clinical integration make him an exemplary figure in his domain. His recognition would not only honor his achievements but also highlight the critical work being done in culturally nuanced family psychology.

Publications

  • Identifying the components of marital relationship: A qualitative study
    • 📚 Authors: G Rajabi, Z Kaveh-Farsani, A Amanelahi, R Khojasteh-Mehr
    • 📊 Citations: 26
    • 📅 Year: 2018
  • The effects of emotion-focused couple therapy on depression symptoms reduction and enhancing emotional regulation in distressed couples
    • 📚 Authors: R Khojasteh Mehr, K Shiralinia, G Rajabi, K Beshlideh
    • 📊 Citations: 24
    • 📅 Year: 2013
  • The effect of a
    • 📚 Authors: R Khojasteh Mehr, Z Abbaspour, A Koraei, R Kochaki
    • 📊 Citations: 17
    • 📅 Year: 2012
  • The comparison of marital satisfaction in employed and non-employed women: A meta-analysis
    • 📚 Authors: M Farajipak, R Khojastehmehr, M Omidian
    • 📊 Citations: 14
    • 📅 Year: 2020
  • The Interaction Between Sacrificing Behaviors and Equity Perception: How Does It Contribute to Marital Intimacy?
    • 📚 Authors: مهری کاوند, منصور سودانی‎
    • 📊 Citations: 14
    • 📅 Year: 2017
  • The experience of happiness in enduring marriages: A qualitative study
    • 📚 Authors: R Khojasteh Mehr, R Mohammadi
    • 📊 Citations: 13
    • 📅 Year: 2021
  • An Investigation into The Effect of Cognitive-Existential Therapy on The Rumination of Women Affected by Male Infidelity
    • 📚 Authors: M Sodani, M Abbasi, R Khojaste Mehr, G Rajabi
    • 📊 Citations: 13
    • 📅 Year: 2019
  • Married students’ attitude to marriage: A qualitative study
    • 📚 Authors: A Mohammadi
    • 📊 Citations: 13
    • 📅 Year: 2016
  • Effectiveness of brief integrative couples counseling on emotional intimacy and marital quality of couples
    • 📚 Authors: R Khojasteh Mehr, A Ahmadi Ghozlojeh, M Sodani, K Shirali Nia
    • 📊 Citations: 13
    • 📅 Year: 2016
  • Identification of the factors contributing to satisfying stable marriages in women
    • 📚 Authors: A Koraei, R Khojaste Mehr, M Sodani, K Aslani
    • 📊 Citations: 11
    • 📅 Year: 2017
  • The Effectiveness of Emotional Couple Therapy on Reduction of Depression Symptoms and Emotional Regulation of Turbulent Couples
    • 📚 Authors: R Khojasteh Mehr, SN Kh, R Gh, K Bashlideh
    • 📊 Citations: 11
    • 📅 Year: 2012
  • The role of equity perception in marital quality in married employees in Ahvaz organizations
    • 📚 Authors: MR Khojasteh, S Faramarzi, G Rajabi
    • 📊 Citations: 11
    • 📅 Year: 2012
  • Mediating role of spouse’s perception of sacrificing behaviors in the relationship between attachment styles and marital quality
    • 📚 Authors: R Khojasteh Mehr, M Kerachian, K Shirali Nia
    • 📊 Citations: 10
    • 📅 Year: 2021
  • The investigation of near-death experiences, and necessity of awareness about its elements
    • 📚 Authors: A Ghasemiannejad-Jahromi, M Mehrabizadeh-Honarmand, SE Hashemi, R Khojasteh Mehr
    • 📊 Citations: 10
    • 📅 Year: 2018

Mohammad Hashim | Developmental Pychology | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Mohammad Hashim | Developmental Pychology | Best Researcher Award

Independent Researcher at Jamia Millia Islamia, India

[Name] is an accomplished researcher with expertise in applied and clinical psychology. A graduate of Jamia Millia Islamia (M.A., Psychology) and Aligarh Muslim University (B.A., Psychology), they have contributed significantly to the understanding of moral foundations and parenting styles. Recognized for their analytical skills, they developed the R package hashimes to aid meta-analysis, showcasing their versatility. A recipient of numerous accolades, including the Best Paper Presentation Award and a UGC-NET qualification, [Name] is passionate about advancing mental health research and creating impactful solutions.

Profile

Scopus

orcid

Education 📖🎓

Master of Arts (Applied Psychology, Clinical), Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi (2020–2022): GPA 3.52/4. Thesis: “Moral Foundations in Relation to Parenting Styles.” Bachelor of Arts (Psychology), Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh (2017–2020): GPA 3.12/4, Minor in Sociology & Islamic Studies. Achieved first rank in M.A. entrance exam at Aligarh Muslim University, 2020. Skilled in psychological research, meta-analysis, and cross-disciplinary applications of psychology.

Experience 🧠🔍

Developed the R package hashimes (2024), facilitating effect size conversion for meta-analysis. Presented award-winning research at the “Mental Health and COVID-19” International Conference, AMU (2022).= Conducted impactful thesis research under Prof. Naved Iqbal at Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi. Experienced in applying psychological frameworks to real-world contexts, including parenting styles and moral foundations. Qualified UGC-NET in 2022, affirming teaching proficiency at the assistant professor level in India.

Awards and Honors 🏆🎖️

2024: Nominated for Best Researcher Award by International Young Scientist Awards. 2024: Created hashimes, an R package aiding effect size conversion for meta-analysis. 2022: Won Best Paper Presentation at International Conference on “Mental Health and COVID-19,” AMU2022: Qualified UGC-NET, certifying eligibility for academic positions in India. 2020: Secured first rank in the M.A. Psychology entrance exam at AMU.

Research Focus 🔬📊

Investigating parenting styles and their influence on moral foundations in diverse populations. Specializing in meta-analysis methodologies, leveraging tools like hashimes. Exploring the psychological effects of COVID-19 on mental health and societal behaviors. Bridging clinical and applied psychology to develop interventions for mental health challenges. Engaging in interdisciplinary research, combining psychology, sociology, and Islamic studies to explore holistic human behavior.

Conclusion

The candidate demonstrates exceptional academic credentials, innovative research contributions, and a growing list of achievements in applied and developmental psychology. Their work on trauma, social anxiety, and Islamic psychological perspectives adds valuable dimensions to the field. With continued focus on impactful publications, practical applications, and collaborative efforts, they are a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award, with potential to excel further in academia and professional research.

📚Publications 

Association of Childhood Emotional Maltreatment with Adolescents’ Psychopathology: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis”
Trauma, Violence, and Abuse (2024)

DOI: 10.1177/15248380241233538

Contributors: M. Hashim, Z. Alimoradi, A. Pakpour, M. Pfaltz, S. Ansari, R. Asif, N. Iqbal

“Prevention of Pornographic Addiction: An Islamic Psychology Perspective”

Published in 2024

DOI: 10.31234/OSF.IO/XGCHU

Contributors: Mohammad Hashim

“Prevalence of Social Anxiety during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis”
Current Psychology (2024)

DOI: 10.1007/s12144-024-06617-x

Contributors: M. Hashim, M. Osmany, Z. Alimoradi, K.A. Dar, N. Iqbal

“Developmental Stages: An Islamic Psychology Perspective”
Journal of Spirituality in Mental Health (2024)

DOI: 10.1080/19349637.2024.2439438

Contributors: Mohammad Hashim

“Association of Childhood Sexual Abuse with Adolescent’s Psychopathology: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis”
Trauma, Violence, & Abuse (2024)

DOI: 10.1177/15248380241281365

Contributors: M. Hashim, N. Iqbal, S. Halligan, Z. Alimoradi, M. Pfaltz, S.R. Farooqi, I. Khan, C.A. Galán, P. Vostanis

“Social Media Use and Well-Being: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis”
Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking (2024)

DOI: 10.1089/cyber.2024.0001

Contributors: S. Ansari, N. Iqbal, R. Asif, M. Hashim, S.R. Farooqi, Z. Alimoradi

“A Study of Moral Foundations in Relation to Parenting Styles”

Unpublished Thesis (2022)

DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.33185.21607

Contributors: Mohammad Hashim

“Prevalence of Social Anxiety during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Meta-Analysis”

International Conference on Mental Health and COVID-19 (2022)

Contributors: Mohammad Hashim