An experienced child psychologist, she is recognized for her innovative methods both in Armenia and in the United States.
“I consider myself a successful person; it motivates me to remain optimistic, set goals, work toward them, and achieve them. When you approach any task with a positive mindset, the likelihood of success increases significantly,” says child psychologist Meri Tashchian. She then adds:
“At the core of my profession lies a deep love for children and the ability to remain focused on a positive outcome. I value the same approach when working with parents. I always set a goal to resolve any complex issue I encounter through a positive solution. By continuously engaging in self-education and now participating in knowledge-sharing with American specialists, I strive to further advance my professional skills.”
Meri is one of those exceptional specialists who combines scientific thinking, psychological insight, and genuine human warmth. She began her professional career back in 2007 as a child psychologist, and today she is recognized both in Armenia and the United States for her innovative methods and community initiatives. She has continuously expanded her expertise through various international programs, including completing the “How to Become an Online Teacher in 24 Hours” course at Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (UAE, 2020).
Recently, the experienced psychologist was invited to a major Pan-Armenian event held in the United States, where she presented her original work titled “Innovative Approaches to the Development of Children on the Autism Spectrum.”
Meri Tashchian’s methodology is based on fairy-tale therapy (story therapy) and art therapy, aimed at supporting children’s speech development, behavioral changes, and integration processes. Her innovative approaches generated significant interest among the participants.
During the event, there was an active exchange of professional experience, and the attending psychologists had the opportunity to become acquainted with Meri’s innovative methods.
The event was organized within the framework of The First Pan-Armenian Intellectuals Platform. This platform—established on the initiative of educator, historian, lawyer, and Life Coach Gevorg Manukyan—brings together psychologists, educators, physicians, lawyers, and professionals from various other fields.
As an invited specialist, Meri Tashchian not only presented her original work but also established collaborative connections with international experts.
“In the field of autism, discovering each child’s unique world requires the power of love, patience, and awareness. I am confident that our collective efforts will lead to new achievements for the benefit of both the homeland and the Diaspora,” she emphasized.
Meri’s professional path spans the educational, media, and public sectors. She has worked as a psychologist at Yerevan Schools No. 195 and No. 181, applying innovative methods in inclusive education and in supporting children on the autism spectrum. She has collaborated with several television companies and has been invited as a specialist guest on various programs, including appearances on Yerkir Media and Armenia Public Television, where her professional analysis and psychological guidance have contributed to raising the psychological awareness of many parents.
Meri has also collaborated with World Vision Armenia within the framework of the “Care for Equality” program. She notes that her developed model—“Integrated Model of Psychological Reinterpretation”—was at the time highly praised by international organizations such as Save the Children and the Child Rights International Network.
Meri Tashchian has been repeatedly invited by various international and educational organizations as a speaker and presenter, where she has introduced her original methodology—particularly on the topic “Innovative Approaches to the Development of Children on the Autism Spectrum.” She has also served as a jury member at numerous educational and professional events, evaluating the work of other specialists in the fields of psychology and child development.
Since 2021, Meri has resided in the United States, where she continues her professional activities within the Diaspora. At the school of the Holy Trinity Armenian Church, she implemented her original methodology, the “Integrated Expressive Model,” which combines elements of story therapy, art therapy, and behavioral approaches. She also collaborates with the Atlas ABA Center in the field of developmental support and integration for children with autism.
Meri Tashchyan informed us that her work has been highly valued by the center as an example of professionalism and innovation, noting that children’s communicative skills have shown significantly improved progress as a result of her methods. She is also a member of the American Psychological Association (APA) and is continuously involved in community initiatives, offering volunteer support to children.
Meri has been honored with numerous certificates of appreciation and commendations. In particular, she received a certificate of recognition from the Holy Trinity Armenian Church for her contributions to community education, and the specialists of the Atlas ABA Center have expressed high appreciation for their collaboration with her.
“Our goal is not only to support, but to uncover the inner light of each child,” says the accomplished psychologist. She now aims to continue her work in the United States, applying her knowledge and methods to the development of child psychology, the study of autism, and parent education.
Meri Tashchian is not only an experienced specialist, but also an individual who has succeeded in uniting the professional potential of both the homeland and the Diaspora. Thanks to her work, hundreds of families have received hope, support, and knowledge on the path of their child’s development and social integration.
Gohar Hakobyan
