Federation-Wide Counselor and Social Worker Empowerment Retreat Held in Nevis

The Nevis Island Administration (NIA) Department of Social Services’ Counselling Care Unit orchestrated a professional retreat for counsellors and social workers from across St. Kitts and Nevis, marking Counselling Awareness Month. Themed “Empowering to Empower,” the retreat aimed to acknowledge the crucial role of mental health professionals while providing a dedicated space for rest, reflection, and rejuvenation. This initiative underscores the NIA’s commitment to fostering a robust and supported network of mental health professionals equipped to address the evolving needs of their communities.

The retreat served as a vital platform for inter-island collaboration, bringing together practitioners in a supportive environment. This facilitated the sharing of experiences, reconnection with colleagues, and prioritization of personal well-being. With a pronounced emphasis on self-care and capacity building, the event highlighted the increasing need for wellness among those dedicated to caring for others. The very nature of counselling work, often emotionally demanding and draining, necessitates such opportunities for respite and mutual support.

Ivorcia Browne, representing the Nevis Department of Social Services’ Counselling Care Unit, stressed the significance of the annual retreat, describing it as a much-needed opportunity for counsellors and social workers to de-stress, connect, and provide mutual support. Recognizing the emotional toll of their work, the retreat offers a safe space for open dialogue about professional challenges and fosters a sense of community among those who often bear the weight of others’ burdens. This annual tradition serves as a testament to the NIA’s dedication to supporting the well-being of its mental health professionals.

Kim Singh, Deputy Director of Social Services, reiterated the Ministry of Social Development’s commitment to bolstering the counselling profession throughout the Federation. She emphasized the dual nature of the theme, “Empowering to Empower”, highlighting the necessity for professionals to cultivate their own resilience in order to effectively support others. Recognizing the inherent challenges of the profession, including navigating complex emotional terrain and carrying the weight of others’ struggles, Singh emphasized the importance of the retreat as a means for professionals to recharge, reflect, and reconnect with their purpose.

The retreat program, facilitated by Therapist Michelle Blake, focused on practical strategies for personal wellness, stress management, and professional sustainability. Under the banner of “Strengthening Ourselves to Strengthen Our Care,” Blake’s interactive sessions equipped attendees with valuable tools to fortify their emotional health and maintain grounding in their demanding work. This focus on practical skills development further underscores the NIA’s commitment to providing tangible support and resources to its mental health professionals.

The retreat received overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants, who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to disconnect from daily responsibilities and engage in meaningful dialogue with colleagues from across the Federation. In a world where mental health is an increasingly pressing concern, both globally and within the Federation, initiatives like this retreat exemplify the NIA’s proactive approach to building a more resilient and well-supported network of professionals prepared to address the complex and ever-growing mental health needs of the community. The emphasis on self-care, inter-island collaboration, and practical skill development reflects a comprehensive strategy to ensure the long-term effectiveness and well-being of those on the frontlines of mental health care.