Services

What we did in the past

The Counsellors were initially trained by the University of Jaffna for six months under the direction of Prof. D. Somasundaram. This was a sandwich course with theory and practical. In addition they were given higher training through International and local organizations in order to enhance their knowledge and skills in the psychosocial field, covering group therapy, self harm and suicide, child protection from sexual abuse and alcoholism.

Focus Group meetings of Counsellors were held to draw up plans for ensuing year as they are the implementers of such plans.

Counsellors’ Forum was established encompassing the revenue district of Batticaloa and the Kalmunai Education zone. It was a significant achievement of Aaruthal which helped to build a sense of unity and solidarity among the Counsellors and accelerate and implement Aaruthal programmes. Steps are in the offing to form similar forums in Jaffna, Vavuniya and Ampara.

Progress review and Peer Group workshops were conducted quarterly. The latter was necessitated to prevent 'burn out' effects in the Counsellors, share their experiences and rejuvenate them for further adventures. Dr. T. Gadambanathan, Psychiatrist, facilitated at these workshops

A Protocol Document was developed to govern the running of the Psychosocial Care centres.

During the period 2007 - 2009, Aaruthal assisted the children identified with psychosocial stresses through school-based on school days and centre-based activities during holidays with the assistance of Master Counsellors. The Psychosocial Care Centres have been established in the Northern and Eastern Provinces.