Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Robinson Morey Contreras, a Venezuelan humanitarian, neuropsychologist, and advocate for human rights, who has been recognized internationally for his groundbreaking research on abuse in religious contexts. His work, spanning multiple continents, has earned him prestigious awards and three Honorary Doctorates in India.
From Venezuela to India: A Global Humanitarian Mission
Interviewer: Dr. Morey, your research has gained significant recognition worldwide. How has this international experience shaped your perspective?
Dr. Robinson Morey: My journey began during my time in India, where I witnessed firsthand the devastating psychological effects of abuse within religious institutions. This experience deeply impacted me and led me to expand my research to Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East. Over the years, I have studied the long-term effects of trauma, particularly in survivors who faced abuse from spiritual leaders. My doctoral research explores these issues from a neuropsychological perspective, focusing on the cognitive and emotional consequences of such experiences.
Traveling and working in different cultural contexts has been invaluable. In Venezuela, my focus has been on providing accessible mental health support. In India, my work has centered on survivors of abuse within religious institutions, while in Africa, I have collaborated with organizations to address gender-based violence. Each region presents unique challenges, but the core issues—trauma, social injustice, and the need for healing—are universal.
Interviewer: You have received three Honorary Doctorates from prestigious institutions in India. What do these honors mean to you?
Dr. Morey Contreras: Receiving Honorary Doctorates from Global Human Peace University, the Global Human Rights Trust, and the Human Rights Council connected with European Professional university and United Nation is both a great honor and a profound responsibility. These recognitions are not just personal achievements but a testament to the collective work of many individuals and organizations striving for justice and healing. They serve as a motivation to continue my research and advocacy for survivors of abuse.
Interviewer: You are currently in India again. Besides receiving these prestigious honors, what else are you working on?
Dr. Robinson Morey: At the moment, I am completing a certification at the International Statistical Education Center (ISEC) and the National Statistical System Training Academy (NSSTA). My experience at NSSTA has been incredibly enriching, allowing me to build professional relationships in the field of statistics and connect with experts from various regions. I deeply appreciate their hospitality and leadership, both in academic and extracurricular activities. Additionally, I had the privilege of visiting the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI). NSSTA is a place I would love to return to—it truly embodies the diversity and dynamism of India.
Interviewer: You integrate neuropsychology, yoga, and Ayurveda in your healing approach. How do these disciplines complement each other?
Dr. Morey Contreras: Healing is multidimensional. Neuropsychology provides the scientific foundation for understanding trauma, while yoga and Ayurveda offer holistic tools for recovery. My methodology combines cognitive therapy with mindfulness, meditation, and Ayurvedic nutrition, creating a comprehensive healing program. This approach has been particularly effective for survivors of abuse, as it addresses both their psychological and physiological needs.
Sustainable Development Goals and Global Impact
Interviewer: How does your work align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and how does it help countries and institutions achieve them?
Dr. Robinson Morey: The initiatives led through Prema Social Service and Escuela Prema International are deeply aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). Mental health programs support trauma survivors, ensuring access to psychological care and rehabilitation services, contributing to SDG 3. Educational programs provide specialized training for mental health professionals, fostering capacity-building and aligning with SDG 4. Advocacy for gender equality promotes policies and community programs that protect women and marginalized populations, reinforcing SDG 5. Lastly, collaboration with legal and governmental institutions enhances justice frameworks and policy implementation, strengthening SDG 16. The impact is measurable through increased accessibility to mental health services, improved legal protection for survivors, and the implementation of research-backed interventions that guide institutional and governmental decision-making at national and international levels.
Final Words of Wisdom
Interviewer: What message would you like to share with those who aspire to create positive change in the world?
Dr. Morey Contreras: Change begins with awareness and action. Whether through research, advocacy, or community support, each of us has the power to contribute to a more just and compassionate world. Never underestimate the impact of your efforts, no matter how small—they can transform lives.
Dr. Robinson Morey Contreras stands as a beacon of hope, bridging science, spirituality, and social justice.
He is the recipient of the Humanitarian Excellence Award (India, 2020-2022), making him the only Venezuelan and Latin American honoree. His dedication to social impact through yoga earned him the Best Yoga Teacher Award from the Indian Embassy in Venezuela (2019-2022). His contributions to neuropsychology and therapy have also been recognized as Neuropsychologist of the Year, International Impact Therapist of the Year, and the Wellness Advisor with Social Impact Award (2024).
Between December 2024 and February 2025, his global influence was further solidified with additional prestigious honors, including the Exclusive Global Honor Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Award, the National Mahatma Gandhi Award, the International Educationist Aryabhata Award, the International Social B.R. Ambedkar Award, and the International Religious Gautam Buddha Award. These awards recognize his contributions to education, social welfare, and religious harmony, reflecting his deep commitment to a just and inclusive society.
His work has touched lives across the globe, earning him a well-deserved place among the most influential voices in mental health and human rights today.
