Experience exchange at MHPSS Kyiv Regional Hub
Vladyslav Shelokov, President of Angels for Ukraine Charity Foundation, recently presented the organization’s mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) initiatives at the MHPSS Kyiv Regional Hub online meeting. The gathering brought together key stakeholders working to address the growing mental health needs across war-affected regions of Ukraine.
During his presentation, Vladyslav highlighted the comprehensive approach that Angels for Ukraine has developed to provide psychological assistance to those affected by the ongoing crisis. The foundation has established several programs specifically designed to reach vulnerable populations, including displaced persons, military veterans, and children experiencing trauma.
“Our mission extends beyond immediate humanitarian aid,” Vladyslav explained to attendees. “We recognize that the invisible wounds of conflict often require specialized, long-term intervention.”
The foundation has implemented training initiatives for local mental health professionals to support their upskilling and expand the network of qualified mental health professionals throughout the country. Currently, 170 professional psychologists from medical facilities, schools, and State Emergency Services have completed the training program. The Angels for Ukraine plans to expand the mental health framework activities and establish several projects: mobile psychological support units that travel to remote communities, telehealth services for those unable to access in-person care, and specialized trauma-informed therapy programs.
Participants at the hub meeting were particularly interested in potential cooperation to implement some ideas discussed during the meeting. For example, the use of both individual and group therapy approaches, which have shown promising results in helping survivors process traumatic experiences and develop resilience strategies.
The participants also discussed ongoing challenges, including resource limitations, stigma surrounding mental health treatment, and the difficulties of providing consistent care in regions experiencing active conflict. Mr. Shelokov emphasized the importance of coordination between organizations to maximize impact and avoid duplication of efforts.
Attendees also engaged in a collaborative discussion about potential partnerships and knowledge-sharing opportunities. Thus, this meeting will have a positive impact on leveraging the resources of the main actors in MHPSS to deliver better services to the affected population.
Vladyslav Shelokov was also invited to attend the meeting of the MHPSS South Regional Hub, which will be held in the next couple of weeks.
