Dr. Shilpi Agarwal

Dr. Shilpi Agarwal is an Assistant Professor in the Psychology and Behaviour Program at the School of Liberal Studies and Humanities, UPES. She holds a Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Delhi, where her research examined silent treatment as an interpersonal behaviour and its psychological impact on relationships. She has published scholarly work in reputed journals and presented her research at national and international platforms. 

Passionate about making learning meaningful, Dr. Agarwal blends theory with practical insights through discussions, case studies, and experiential activities that actively engage students. Her teaching approach emphasizes critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and the real-world application of psychological concepts. She has also contributed to mental health awareness programmes and student support initiatives, creating spaces for dialogue and well-being. 

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Agarwal enjoys writing poetry and pursuing creative interests, bringing curiosity and originality to her academic work. She believes in fostering inclusive, empathetic, and intellectually stimulating learning environments that inspire students to grow personally and academically.

Before joining UPES, Dr. Agarwal served in the Department of Psychology at Akal University, Punjab, where she led the department and managed academic as well as administrative responsibilities. She taught undergraduate and postgraduate courses including Social Psychology, Research Methods, Stress Management, Health Psychology, Motivation and Emotion, and Biopsychology. She also guided MA dissertations and handled curriculum development, timetable planning, and departmental documentation. In addition, she was associated with the Centre for Stress Management and Counselling Cell at Akal University. 

Dr. Agarwal began her academic career at Allahabad Degree College, Prayagraj, where she taught postgraduate students and conducted practical training.

Social Psychology, Qualitative Approaches in Research, Interpersonal Communication and Dynamics, Counselling, and Psychotherapies in the Indian Context.

Dr. Agarwal’s teaching philosophy is rooted in experiential learning, encouraging students to apply psychological concepts to real-life situations through activities, case studies, and practical exposure. Her classrooms are interactive and discussion-driven, promoting critical thinking and diverse perspectives. She strives to create an inclusive environment where students feel supported and motivated to grow. Her vision combines empathy with value-based education, ensuring students develop not only academic competence but also compassion, responsibility, and personal maturity.

Dr. Agarwal has taught Social Psychology, Biopsychology, Research Methods, Motivation and Emotion, Stress Management, and Health Psychology.

Dr. Agarwal was awarded the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and subsequently the Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) at the University of Delhi. 

Dr. Agarwal has actively contributed to the field of psychology through research, training, and mental health initiatives. She has presented research on silent treatment and interpersonal relationships at prestigious forums such as NAOP conventions and various national and international seminars. Her expertise also received international recognition when she shared insights on silent treatment on Indonesia’s Kuru Podcast. 

She introduced student-centric initiatives at Akal University, including Learning Together, a peer-learning programme, along with other student well-being initiatives. She also organized mental health awareness programmes and educational field visits. As an integral member of the Centre for Stress Management, she led programmes on stress management, happiness, and coping with test anxiety. 

In addition, Dr. Agarwal has delivered invited talks on mental health awareness at institutions such as Ramanujan College, University of Delhi, assisted in UGC-SAP professional development workshops at MRIIRS, and facilitated practical training in counselling skills and Mental Status Examination (MSE) for postgraduate psychology students. 

To further strengthen her expertise in mental health interventions, she completed Level 1: Master Hypnotist Certification in Clinical Hypnotherapy in July 2025, facilitated by MindSpa India and accredited by CHI-USA.

shilpi.agarwal@ddn.upes.ac.in