On June 18, the International Forum of Psychologists, Chaplains, and Theologians titled “Healing the Wounded Soul: An Integrated Approach to Addressing Moral Injury in Military Personnel” was held at Mariupol State University in Kyiv. The event brought together professionals in psychology, pastoral care, medicine, and social support to discuss approaches to addressing moral injury, supporting people in experiencing loss, and developing effective practices of assistance in the context of war.
Among the experts were members of the “Dialogue in Action” team as well: facilitators Olena Kopina and Dmytro Fedorchak.
Dmytro delivered a workshop titled “The Theological and Psychological Support of Grief: Working with the Body and Memory.” The workshop explored the process of grieving loss, the role of memory in bereavement, and the bodily dimensions of experiencing pain. Together with participants, Dmytro also discussed safe forms of support for people who are experiencing loss or prolonged uncertainty.
Olena’s workshop, Prevention of Burnout Among Helping Professionals: Psychohygiene for Chaplains and Psychologists – Self-Regulation Practices, Spiritual Retreats, and Supervision in the Context of War", was dedicated to those who support others on a daily basis. Participants discussed tools for strengthening inner resilience, as well as the importance of supervision, self-regulation, and replenishment in professional practice.
The Forum created a space for interdisciplinary dialogue among professionals from the fields of psychology, theology, and medicine. Rather than searching for “right” answers to complex human experiences, participants came together around a shared commitment to accompanying people living through loss, moral injury, and prolonged uncertainty.
We express our gratitude to Mariupol State University for organizing the event and for the opportunity to contribute to such important professional discussions.
We also extend special thanks to the co-organizer and inspirer of the Forum, Father Job (Olshanskyi), a participant of the “Community Building and Effective Engagement” program supported by the Robert Bosch Foundation. We are glad to see how partnerships and shared values grow into new professional initiatives and spaces of support.
