In the face of challenging times, the Palestinian Counseling Center continues its mission of providing hope and healing to our communities. Our recent Psychological First Aid (PFA) Intervention group session stands as a testament to the strength and resilience of Palestinian women and the transformative power of collective support.
The session was held outdoors, surrounded by the beauty of nature—a perfect setting for healing. Sitting under the warm sun and amidst the spring breeze, participants found solace in the environment as they began to open up. They shared their stories, emotions, and experiences through conversation, drawing, and other creative activities. Slowly, fear and sadness began to lift, replaced by comfort and hope. The space became one of connection and understanding, where women could lean on each other and rediscover their inner strength.
Our PCC counslors guided participants through practical strategies to cope with trauma, offering tools and techniques to address emotional reactions to life’s challenges. The atmosphere was going positively - with a small celebration of the perseverance of our people in Gaza and the liberation of prisoners. Laughter, shared joy, and a renewed sense of solidarity filled the air, turning the session into a symbol of healing and hope.
Participants expressed an overwhelming desire to continue these gatherings, with one saying,
“We came in with cards filled with heavy emotions, and we’re leaving with cards that reflect hope and strength.”
By the end of the session, no one wanted to leave, asking for more time to savor the warmth and support they had found.
The PCC team was deeply moved by the transformation witnessed during this session, reaffirming the importance of psychological interventions in restoring well-being.