Press Release: An "Empowerment Bridge" for mountain communities' access to mental health services
A new partnership focused on supporting and empowering residents of mountainous communities was launched in Pelendri during an introductory event for the "Mountain Area Empowerment Bridge" Regional Multi-Service Center, held on Friday, September 18, 2026.
The event was held under the auspices of the Office of the Commissioner for the Development of Mountain Communities and took place in the presence of the Commissioner, Mr. Charalambos Christofinas. The Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare was represented by State Aid Officer Ms. Christofora Giatrou, while the event was also attended by the President of the Limassol District Local Government Organization, Mr. Yiannis Tsouloftas, as well as community leaders from mountain areas.
The Regional Multi-Service Center aims to serve as a support hub for mountain communities, bringing services that meet the needs of children, adolescents, adults, and families closer to the residents.
As part of the collaboration, the Pancyprian Association for Psychotherapists (PAP) undertakes the coordination of the initiative in the field of psychotherapy and the liaison with training institutes, ensuring that services are provided by appropriately selected trainee psychotherapists under systematic clinical supervision and within a clear scientific and ethical framework.
In her address at the event, Thekla Vasiliou, President of the Pancyprian Association for Psychotherapists, highlighted the importance of the initiative for mountain communities. "Today’s meeting marks the beginning of a significant collaboration that aims to bring psychotherapeutic support closer to the people of mountain communities—safely, consistently, and with respect for their actual needs," she stated.
She also emphasized the importance of cooperation among all stakeholders, expressing the Association's gratitude to the Pelendri Community Welfare Council (SKE) for hosting the event and providing the facilities, and to the Pelendri Community Council for its support and confidence in the initiative. She also extended thanks to the Commissioner for Mountain Communities Development and the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare for their contribution to promoting actions that enhance the quality of life and access to mental health services for residents of mountain areas.
Special mention was made of the Cyprus ADHD Association, whose initiative helped pave the way for this specific collaboration. As the President of the PAP stated in her concluding remarks, "I hope this collaboration will serve as a meaningful bridge of connection, care, and empowerment for Pelendri and the wider region."
The Pancyprian Association for Psychotherapists will continue to support initiatives and collaborations that expand citizens' access to quality mental health services and bring psychotherapeutic support closer to local communities.
