In June 2023, over 200 professionals from various fields like healthcare, police, NGOs, academia, civil registration, and social services participated in a training program. These individuals are often the first point of contact for women who have experienced domestic or sexual violence. The training aimed to enhance their understanding of psychological counselling and equip them with stress relief techniques for their daily work.
The training materials were developed in line with the UNFPA guidelines on psychosocial counseling for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV). They also align with the Essential Service Package for women and girls subject to violence. These resources emphasize a survivor-centered approach, which empowers the survivor by helping her understand her options and make her own decisions.
However, delivering these services remotely presents unique challenges. It’s crucial to uphold the four guiding principles while working with women survivors of violence:
- Right to safety
- Right to confidentiality
- Right to dignity and self-determination
- Right to non-discrimination
The materials were translated into Turkmen and Russian and submitted to the central methodology commission of the Ministry of Education. The goal is to incorporate them into the curriculum of the Medical State University’s Department of Medical Psychology and Psychiatry, the State University’s Department of Psychology, and Nursing schools.
For more information, please contact.
Dr. Kemal Goshliyev Reproductive Health Specialists at goshliyev@unfpa.org
