The Ministry of Women, Community, and Social Development, in collaboration with Soul Talk Samoa, has successfully conducted a groundbreaking two-day training session on Spiritual Family Counseling (Pastoral Counseling). 

This event brought together village representatives from 22 districts in Upolu, taking place at the Women, Community, and Social Development Office Hall in Tooa Salamasina from 17-18 September 2024.

The training aimed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge to provide emotional, mental, and spiritual support to families and individuals within their communities. 

By addressing pressing challenges such as grief, stress, and mental health issues, the program sought to foster healing, resilience, and emotional well-being throughout the villages.

Participants emerged from the sessions with newfound confidence in their roles as community support leaders. Many expressed how the training had deepened their understanding of their responsibilities. 

One representative shared, “This training has given me a clearer understanding of how to approach families in my village who are struggling with emotional pain. I now feel more prepared to help them find peace and healing.”

The initiative also emphasised the importance of creating supportive and resilient community networks. “I realise now that our role goes beyond just listening; we can guide our people to mental and emotional well-being through the power of spiritual counselling,” reflected another participant. 

This focus on practical counselling tools is expected to significantly reduce emotional distress and abuse within communities while promoting overall mental wellness.

Looking ahead, the ministry has planned monthly follow-up sessions to ensure ongoing support for the village representatives. 

These check-ins will guide them on implementing counselling techniques and address any challenges that may arise in their roles. 

Additionally, the initiative is set to expand, with similar training sessions planned for representatives in the districts of Savai’i, further extending the impact of this vital work across Samoa.

Through this commitment to training and support, the Ministry of Women, Community, and Social Development and Soul Talk Samoa are laying the foundation for healthier, more resilient communities, ensuring that emotional well-being remains a priority for all Samoans.