SVO veterans from 9 regions have been trained in peer counseling

The Center for retraining veterans of ITS University "Synergy" has completed the training of the first group of equal consultants, the university's press service reported. Among the graduates are participants of the special operation from nine regions of Russia.: Moscow, Kemerovo, Tambov, Rostov, Vologda, Arkhangelsk and Murmansk regions, the Republics of Sakha and Mari El.

The course is intended for participants of the SVO who have personal combat experience and have gone through the path of adaptation to civilian life. Equal consultants will become a link between veterans and the professional assistance system. They will help former military personnel in a situation of psychological crisis, help to stabilize their emotional state and prevent secondary traumatization, as well as help their wards in finding the right specialists.

"The main feature of peer counselors is that it is easier for a veteran to open up to someone who has been through combat himself. We do not aim to replace professional psychologists and doctors, but we provide an opportunity to establish trusting contact, which often begins with real help. The first issue showed that this approach is in demand," said Vadim Lobov, President of Synergy Corporation.

The training course for peer counselors includes modules on the neurobiology of trauma, the philosophy of peer counseling, dialogue skills without an expert position, crisis support, self-regulation and self-help techniques, as well as practical development of these skills.

"When working with veterans, it is very important to give an opportunity to speak out. We are the people who have traveled the roads of war, and our experience is similar to that of a veteran who came to a consultation. Not everything can be told to a person who has not seen the war. Not everything can be shared even with loved ones, with family. But something has to be done, somehow it is necessary to let out the emotions, experiences, and sometimes the fear that remains in the soul. Not everyone will go to a psychologist right away. This is where peer consultants come to the rescue," said Vitaliy Turovets, a participant in the program.

Equal consultants will be able to work in regional branches of the Defenders of the Fatherland Foundation, veterans' organizations, rehabilitation centers, as well as in the HR departments of companies to adapt the mobilized returning to their jobs. In addition, they will be able to become curators of academic groups at Synergy University, where veteran students study, and work in the university's employment department as adaptation specialists.