After moving to Kyiv from war-torn eastern Ukraine, 14-year-old Maria withdrew into herself. Once cheerful, open, and curious, she became a girl hiding behind her phone screen, avoiding friends, and even pulling away from her mother’s hugs.

Her mother, Olena, couldn’t find a way to reach her, so she turned to psychologist Nataliia Lypchak at our Hope and Healing Center in Kyiv.

At their first session, Maria barely spoke. But Nataliia was able to create a safe space where the girl slowly began to open up and express her feelings. Behind Maria’s silence were fears — of change, loneliness, losing her home and her friends.

With gentle support, emotional stabilization exercises, and gradual social reintegration, our specialist helped Maria adapt to her new reality and regain interest in life.

Today, she has a friend she goes to art class with. There’s laughter, support, and a belief that even after loss — life goes on!

Thank you, @novaukraine, for supporting those who have endured the horrors of war. Together, we’re helping them return to life.

Psychological consultations are held as part of the “Public Health System Recovery and Resilience (PHS R&R)” program.