'Your story matters' is the motto of Poradnia Psalm, our counselling centre dedicated to people with refugee experience. Crossing the Polish border does not eliminate the pain caused by war or persecution that a person has experienced, and at the same time, it marks the beginning of new challenges. Research shows that one in three refugees suffers from PTSD, depression or severe anxiety, but the Polish health service is overburdened and the help offered is mainly available in Polish. Therefore, many people have no one to turn to for help.
"The meetings at the Psalm Counselling Centre helped me to manage the anxiety I had been struggling with for several years. The people who work here not only create a warm atmosphere, but they also know how to listen, support and show you the best way forward. It's a place you always want to come back to."
- Wera*, a patient at Psalm
At the Psalm Counselling Centre, healing begins in the language of the heart. It is a place where emotions can be expressed sincerely, just as in the biblical Psalms, where pain and hurt are met with compassion, and where those who are weary can find the strength to carry on. It is one of the few facilities in Warsaw where assistance is provided in Ukrainian, Russian, English and Persian by specialists who hold Christian values. The freedom from language barriers is often the key to truly effective therapy and for many clients, this is their first opportunity to work through their pain.
"What sets the Psalm Counselling Centre apart is that the therapists are people of faith. If a client expresses such a need, we also offer pastoral care. This allows people to experience deep comfort and regain hope."
- Polina*, a therapist at Psalm
Partner and support the Psalm Counselling Centre
Make a donation to cover individual and group consultations with professional therapists.
A gift of 200PLN (~55USD/48EUR/42GBP) can sponsor a consultation with a specialist.
International donations should be given via your local OM office, making sure to state the purpose as 'Poland - Counselling Centre'.
Donations within Poland can be made using the links below.
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