Reflection and Self-Study Group

In our work environment, we are daily confronted with questions and issues that possibly cannot be answered unambiguously and which perhaps result in our resignation.

For those of us who wonder:

• If our practices are adequate
• If they have a substantial effect on the users of our services
• If there are anthropocentric (person – centered) or disability-illness centered
• If the rights of our fellow human beings who have been classified or declared "mentally ill" are being respected
• If our education, training and experience are sufficient or whether we need additional

We can discuss and express our concerns in a reflection and self-study group. Anima’s employees took the initiative to seek out other students or professionals from the mental health field who would like to:

• train continuously without being exploited by "authorities"
• be informed on issues that concern them
• Form an opinion on what is happening in the mental health field

The Reflection and Self – Study Group has no subject restrictions. It neither is managed nor controlled by anyone – not even by the agency’s administration – and it is not censored. It is a group primarily concerned with our own mental health...

Training and Internships

Having undertaken a difficult and ambiguous task, we almost immediately realized that the training of mental health professionals is probably the most important means to achieve our goals.

For this reason Anima:

• Promotes on-the-job training programs and collaborates with a Vocational Training Centre to secure certified training for its employees,
• Designs and implements specialized training programs, mandatory for volunteers who will take action at the Psychosocial Rehabilitation Unit,
• Supports - sometimes financially - staff training in additional educational settings (Masters Programs, etc.)
• Undertakes designing and implementing educational and experiential training programs for employees of other associations, upon request.
• Enables students to carry out their internship in the field of rehabilitation, raising community awareness, organizing events, providing support services at home and / or scientific research under the guidance of trained professionals. Those interested, need to consult with their educational institution and our organization in order to determine the standard procedures (appoint an instructor and internship supervisor, establish timetables, determine educational goals, etc.).
• Offers the opportunity to European Union’s University and Educational institution students to carry out their internship through the ERASMUS program.
  
  
  

Psychosocial and Rehabilitation Unit

ANIMA’s first and foremost basic activity is the Psychosocial Rehabilitation Unit "Anima", located in Acharnes which has been operating since May 29, 2006.

The especially designed and equipped area of 650 square meters hosts 15 men and women formerly confined in the Psychiatric Hospital of Attiki "Dromokaiteio" and - at least for the duration of their stay - this place, is their home.

Having recognized that the main problems our unit’s residents face are chronic institutionalization and confinement, and not their "mental illness", we continuously work with them in a daily basis in order to help them regain the lost time and to "relearn how to live."

If you would like to get to know us, you may contact us and ask to be a part of one of our yearly planned social events or become a volunteer with us.