"You Feel the War When You Live Near It, in a Frontline City." Why Psychologist Sofiia Stetsenko Helps Children in Sumy

Author:

Ksenia Chykunova

Despite daily shelling, thousands of children still live in the city of Sumy, which is located close to the border with Russia.

They study remotely, often cannot spend time with their peers, and lack a safe space to share their emotions.

For this reason, in November 2024, the Voices of Children Foundation launched a new regional center where children and their parents can receive psychological support.

The local team is not really big—coordinator Nadiia and psychologists Yevheniia and Sofiia. Since opening, they have already helped more than 100 children.

Psychologist Sofiia Stetsenko has worked at the center since its launch. Despite everything, she loves her profession and deeply desires to help others.

By the 10th grade, I already knew where I wanted to study, and my choice disappointed my Ukrainian language teacher. But I am happy with my choice. I studied at Sumy University. Since then, I have had 12 years of practice,

says Sofiia.

Sumy has always been home for Sofiia. She was born, grew up, studied, and gained experience here. After Russia's full-scale invasion began, she fled the city for a short period but decided to return home despite everything.

"When you live near the war, in a frontline city, you feel it. It may not be visible in patriotic slogans plastered on every street corner, but the spirit of love for our country and unity is here. More people here are willing to help and support us than those against us."

The psychologist explains that every resident of Sumy has their own reasons for staying here—as well as their own ways of maintaining mental health while enduring constant shelling.

I have my own small rituals that help me and bring joy and happiness. These are the things I can do mindfully. Making my favorite coffee and cooking my favorite food. These are simple things that we often overlook but that keep us going. I also see a psychologist. Oh, and I almost forgot—the cat. He helps, too,

says Sofiia.

Sofiia learned about the Voices of Children Foundation last year while looking for organizations that help children and adults cope with stress. She explains that at the time, she felt this need and understood that others in her community likely did as well. She wanted to be helpful: "I felt frustrated that we didn't have anything like this in Sumy. Then I met a professional in the field who worked at the Foundation—and for me, it was like the stars aligned."

The Sumy Center is a safe space for children to relax. Each child comes here with their own experiences and needs. For some, the priority is live communication; for others, it is overcoming anxiety and finding support.

"Every experience is unique. Our task is to find the tools to help children become more self-reliant—some benefit from breathing techniques, some from tapping, and others from grounding exercises. At the center, children find friends, learn to communicate, and socialize. Once, a parent asked us: 'What do you do to them that they come out so happy?' And they really do leave happy. That is the greatest gratitude we could receive."

Sofiia explains that their work often goes beyond just supporting children. The Foundation's psychologists work not only with children but with their parents as well. After all, if a child receives help at the center but does not get support at home, progress is unlikely.

"People's attitudes toward psychology have changed significantly, and I'm glad about that. More people realize they need to care for their mental and psychological space just as much as their physical health."

War leaves its mark. Some people turn to the Foundation because of loss, others because of anxiety or fear. The specialists at the center find personalized strategies tailored to each case. "We dream of expanding our team and growing. We want the center to be alive and needed. I want to see my city successful, peaceful, and comfortable for its people."

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