CETA practitioners met in Kyiv to share their experience of a year of work providing psychological support to Ukrainians experiencing war-related stress.
Almost a year ago, 40 psychosocial service providers from the focus communities and partner organizations of the USAID PHS R&R project were trained and subsequently certified in the CETA (Common Elements Treatment Approach). They have mastered the skills to provide psychological support to people experiencing negative psycho-emotional impact of war.
The trained professionals, supported by trainers, provided psychological assistance to residents of their communities throughout the year. Thanks to their work, more than 230 people with anxiety and depression, post-traumatic disorders, and addictions have received in an average of 5 to 13 sessions to overcome stress symptoms.
The practitioners’ aspiration to exchange insights with colleagues and grow professionally led to the establishment of the CETA community of practice, and on June 07, 2024, the first meeting of the new community took place in Kyiv. The trainers of the Center for Mental Health and Psychosocial Support of the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy (NaUKMA) joined the meeting.
During the meeting, the participants examined practical psychological cases, completed facilitated exercises, and worked on tools for managing clients with vicarious trauma and panic and anxiety attacks in a workshop approach. At the end of the event, the providers received certificates confirming a year of fruitful work.
New challenges lie ahead, so let’s keep working!