Brief Profile Of Dr. Susan Gitau

• Founder /Spiritual & Mental Health Director – Susan Gitau Counseling Foundation
• Mindful Self-Compassion Trained Teacher (CMSC – USA)
• Lecturer & Chair of Counseling Department at Africa Nazarene University, Kenya
• KCPA Accredited Senior Counselor Supervisor (KCPA/0116/06)
• Chairperson Kiambu County, Central Kenya
• Counseling Psychologist Consultant in Governmental and non-governmental organizations
• Certified National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) trainer on Workplace Mental Health issues
• Best Course Awardee 2023 HUF Counseling Practicum I ( Hadong Global University)

Why The Talk Show?

How would you feel when you get relieved of that pain in your heart? With an experience of 20+ years, Dr. Susan Gitau has realized that when people come from therapy, they are in so much suffering. Fortunately, a lot of changes in their lives stem from the therapy they receive.

They thrive through their agony and later thrive in areas where they are stagnated. For instance, they experience success in their personal, work, and social life. This is the reason Dr. Gitau named the show: Pain to Fruitfulness aka P2F Talk Show.

What Is The State Of Mental Health In Kenya

The Kenyan National Commission of Human Rights estimates that 25% and 40% of outpatients and inpatients consecutively suffer from mental health conditions. The most frequent diagnoses of mental illnesses made in general hospital settings are depression, substance abuse, stress, and anxiety disorders. That’s roughly 50 million people.

Well, 55% of adults with a mental illness have not received any treatment. 5.44% of adults experience severe mental illness. Over 12.1 million adults (4.8%) have reported serious thoughts of suicide.

The Kenya Mental Health Policy (2015–2030) provides a framework that guides mental health reforms in the country with the aim of ensuring that all persons have access to comprehensive, integrated, and high-quality mental health care that is promotive, preventive, curative, and rehabilitative at all levels of healthcare. The policy also highlights vital strategies for mitigating structural challenges and emerging patterns in alleviating mental health problems and disorders. Despite the availability of mental health policies and the country’s focus on addressing the gaps, Kenya has an increasing adolescent and young population with undocumented mental health needs hampering resource allocation and service provision. 

Problem Statement

With this rising number of cases of mental health burden, there is a need to have an economic approach as an intervention. One of the intervention strategies ought to be preventive. Pain to Fruitfulness Show is a mental health intervention approach that seeks to prevent and support individuals, families and communities that face or are facing mental health challenges with relevant knowledge, skills, and values applicable to the mental health and wellness of diverse populations in Kenya and beyond.

Rationale And Justification

The show will utilize economies of large-scale approach where many people will be reached with relevant information on matters of mental health. Expected outcomes include enhanced self-awareness, creating common humanity strength in shared suffering and creating space for recovery, healing, networking, and bouncing back to fruitful living. Every part of the journey of suffering will be explained by the host (s) or invited experts. Testimonies of success stories will be shared in each show.\

Objectives

The show will seek to:

1. Encourage participants’ open sincere sharing of information, personal stories and testimonies of mental health illness, struggles, recovery, and healing.
2. Have open dialogue with psychologists and psychiatrists from time to time on the issues affecting people in matters of mental health.
3. Equip participants with mindfulness and self-compassion skills to cope with difficult emotions arising from their suffering.
4. Create a network of relevant stakeholders in addressing matters of mental health affecting people.
5. Practice self-compassion exercises to enhance daily fruitful living.

Methodology

The show will kick off with an official launch in a public place like a church setting or a hotel accessible to all people. The show will be hosted by Dr Susan Gitau and her assistant counsellors Mrs Jane Wanyoike and Mrs Tina Owino when she is not around. Volunteer counsellors from her foundation will always be available to assist cases in need of one-on-one counselling services.

The show will stick to shaping a mental health recovery and healing pathway from agony to thriving and seek to showcase how the holistic person ought to operate body mind and spirit for optimum performance and daily living.

From time to time, the host will be having case presentations of participants willing to share their journey and/or have presentations on different mental health situations affecting people and how they can move from pain to fruitful life.

The show will be recorded and later posted to relevant social media platforms for those who may not be able to participate in person.

Ethical Considerations

All participants in the show will be required to sign a consent form. The participants will consent formally before sharing and the counselors will listen and guide the participants before signing the consent. Due diligence will be done to avoid FAKE STORIES and cases of participants with overwhelming emotional pain on set.

When Will The Show Be Conducted

Every second Saturday of the month is an online P2F Talk Show

Every second Saturday of the month.

View the launch of the talk show in our events directory.

Platform

YouTube channel (online users)

Zoom meetings.

In-person (venue TBA) every month

Expected Outcome Benefits

• Participants will experience enhanced self-awareness in matters of mental health.
• Enhanced compassion for people with mental health challenges.
• Creating one big mental health champion’s voice to ensure everyone has access to mental health services.
• Creating a zero stigma and discrimination tolerance space for persons struggling and/or living with mental illness
• Bold testimonies will inspire more people to look at mental illness as a disease like any other and learn to share about their challenges too.
• P2F seeks to reach as many people as possible to prevent and offer support to those living with mental health challenges.
• Volunteer counsellors will be present to offer free counselling therapy services during the in-person event.

Challenges

Due to financial challenges, the show will hold a minimum of 100 participants during the launch sponsored event by the Susan Gitau Counseling Foundation.

Future Plans to F2F

To reach out to partners and well-wishers to facilitate more volunteers, speakers, coaches and other mental health specialists on board who can support the pain to Fruitfulness talk show Metal Health project

P2F Motto

Share to Heal

Reach Out To Dr. Susan Gitau

Dr. Susan Gitau (Producer and Director P2F Mental Health Talk Show)

Founder Susan Gitau Counseling Foundation.

Lecturer Africa Nazarene University

X @dr. susan gitau

Face: Susan Gitau Counseling Foundation

In the heart of Kiandutu, Thika Town, a beacon of hope is shining brightly, casting its warm glow over the lives of the vulnerable. The Susan Gitau Counselling Foundation (SGCF), a non-profit organization spearheaded by the compassionate Dr. Susan Gitau, has launched the Moyo Wa Huruma Project at Kyanjau Primary School. This initiative, which began on the 11th of November 2023, aims to provide essential provisions, mental health services, and a sense of security to the children of Kyanjau and its surrounding areas.

A Vision of Holistic Wellbeing

At the core of Moyo Wa Huruma is the commitment to addressing the multifaceted needs of the community. Dr. Susan Gitau, a renowned figure in the field of counseling and trauma therapy, founded SGCF with a vision to make a positive impact on the lives of those grappling with adversity. The Moyo Wa Huruma Project aligns seamlessly with this vision, reflecting the organization’s dedication to holistic well-being.

Community-Centric Support

The beneficiaries of this heartwarming project are the children of Kyanjau Primary School and the neighboring vicinity. These young souls, often facing socio-economic challenges, are now finding solace in the form of basic provisions such as clothing and nourishing food. Beyond material support, SGCF is extending its expertise in mental health services, offering counseling to address the emotional scars that may linger in the hearts of these resilient youngsters.

The Power of Collaboration

The Moyo Wa Huruma Project is not a solitary endeavor. In the spirit of unity and collective responsibility, the Rotary Club Nairobi has joined hands with SGCF to inaugurate this noble cause. The Rotary Club’s involvement underscores the significance of collaboration in creating a lasting impact on communities in need. Together, SGCF and Rotary Club Nairobi are amplifying their outreach, ensuring a more extensive reach and a more profound influence on the lives touched by Moyo Wa Huruma.

Sustaining Hope Through the Holiday Season

As we navigate the holiday season, a time traditionally associated with joy and giving, the Moyo Wa Huruma Project is a poignant reminder that compassion knows no bounds. The project will run until the holiday season concludes, ensuring a sustained period of support for the children and families involved. The festive season, which can be particularly challenging for those facing adversity, is now infused with a renewed sense of hope and camaraderie.

The SGCF Team: Architects of Change

The SGCF team, comprised of dedicated counselors, interns, and passionate volunteers, is at the forefront of this benevolent initiative. Their unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of the vulnerable is the driving force behind the success of Moyo Wa Huruma. These individuals, armed with empathy and expertise, are creating a safe space for healing and growth within the community.

Donate and Volunteer Today

• Your financial contributions can make a real difference. Visit SGCF’s Donation Page to contribute and support the Moyo Wa Huruma Project.
• Join our team of volunteers and lend your skills to make a lasting impact. Explore Volunteer Opportunities and be a part of positive change in the lives of the vulnerable.

Individual counselling is a pivotal component of the services offered at the Susan Gitau Counselling Foundation. Our organization, committed to improving the community’s well-being, recognizes the significance of personal mental health.

In this article, we delve into the importance of individual counselling, how it benefits those in need, and the role it plays within our mission. As a non-profit, we aim to provide accessible, professional support for individuals seeking to improve their emotional health and well-being.

Personalized Support

Every individual’s experiences and challenges are unique. Our experienced counselors provide personalized support tailored to your specific needs, addressing concerns ranging from anxiety and depression to stress and trauma.

Emotional Well-Being

Emotional well-being is essential for overall health. Our counselling sessions are designed to help you manage your emotions, find coping strategies, and foster resilience, contributing to a happier, healthier life.

Confidential Space

We provide a safe and confidential space for you to share your thoughts and feelings openly, without fear of judgment. Our commitment to privacy ensures that you can express yourself freely.

Problem Solving

Individual counselling equips you with problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of your issues. By identifying and addressing root causes, our counselors help you navigate life’s challenges more effectively

Empowerment

Our goal is to empower individuals, enabling them to take control of their lives and make positive changes. We believe in your capacity for growth and change.

Conclusion

Well-being is not a destination; it’s a continuous journey. At the Susan Gitau Counselling Foundation, we support individuals in their journey towards a healthier, happier life. Our individual counselling sessions are designed to help you explore your emotions, develop resilience, and improve your mental health. We believe that everyone has the potential for growth and personal transformation. By working with our experienced counselors, you can embark on a path to emotional well-being, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.

In the hustle and bustle of life, stress can often become overwhelming. At the Susan Gitau Counselling Foundation, we recognize the importance of mindfulness and stress reduction in promoting emotional well-being. In this article, we delve into the significance of mindfulness practices and stress reduction techniques and their role within our organization’s mission.

As a non-profit dedicated to enhancing the community’s emotional health, we provide accessible, professional support for individuals seeking to find peace, reduce stress, and regain control of their lives.

Stress Management

Mindfulness and stress reduction are powerful tools in managing the challenges of modern life. At the Susan Gitau Counselling Foundation, we emphasize their importance.

Emotional Resilience

These practices enhance emotional resilience, helping individuals bounce back from life’s setbacks and adversities.

Improved Focus

Mindfulness techniques promote better concentration and clarity of thought, allowing individuals to be more present and productive in their daily lives.

Emotional Well-being

By reducing stress, individuals can enjoy greater emotional well-being, fostering a happier, more balanced life.

Life Satisfaction

Mindfulness and stress reduction contribute to a heightened sense of life satisfaction and contentment.

Final Thoughts

Mindfulness and stress reduction are integral to our mission at the Susan Gitau Counselling Foundation. We understand that in today’s fast-paced world, finding peace and reducing stress is essential for individual and collective well-being. Our professional counselors are ready to assist you in discovering a more serene, balanced life. Whether you’re dealing with stress, seeking emotional resilience, or simply looking to enhance your well-being, our organization is dedicated to making a positive impact on your emotional health. Finding peace and balance is at the heart of what we do.

The journey of healing from trauma and grief is often challenging, and at the Susan Gitau Counselling Foundation, we understand the importance of trauma and grief counselling in facilitating recovery.

In this article, we explore the significance of trauma and grief counseling and its central role within our organization’s mission. As a non-profit dedicated to enhancing the community’s emotional health, we offer accessible, professional support for individuals dealing with trauma and grief, helping them find solace and emotional healing.

Emotional Healing

Our experienced therapists guide individuals through the process of emotional healing, helping them work through the pain, sadness, and confusion associated with trauma and grief.

Resilience Building

Counseling aids in building emotional resilience, enabling individuals to cope with their experiences and move forward with their lives.

Support and Understanding

Our therapy provides a safe space for individuals to express their feelings, fostering empathy, and understanding as they work through their trauma or grief.

Coping Strategies

Our therapists equip individuals with coping strategies and tools to manage their emotions and navigate the challenges they face.

Conclusion

Trauma and grief counseling is at the core of our mission at the Susan Gitau Counselling Foundation. We understand that healing from trauma and grief is essential for individual and collective well-being. Our professional therapists are ready to assist you in your journey towards emotional healing and resilience. Whether you’re dealing with traumatic experiences, seeking solace, or simply looking to process your grief, our organization is dedicated to making a positive impact on your emotional health. Healing and resilience-building are at the heart of what we do.

Family is the cornerstone of our lives, and at the Susan Gitau Counselling Foundation, we recognize the profound impact of family dynamics on our emotional well-being. In this article, we explore the significance of family therapy and its central role within our organization’s mission.

As a non-profit dedicated to enhancing the community’s emotional health, we are committed to providing accessible, professional support for families seeking to strengthen their bonds, resolve conflicts, and navigate life’s challenges together.

Conflict Resolution

Families often face internal conflicts. Our experienced therapists assist families in resolving issues constructively, promoting harmony within the household.

Communication Enhancement

Effective communication is key to a healthy family. We work with families to improve their communication patterns, allowing for open, honest discussions.

Strengthening Bond

Our therapy provides a safe space for individuals to express their feelings, fostering empathy, and understanding as they work through their trauma or grief.

Coping with Life Transitions

Families often face challenges during major life changes. Our therapy provides guidance and support during these transitions.

Conclusion

Family therapy is at the core of our mission at the Susan Gitau Counselling Foundation. We understand that strong, healthy family relationships are essential for individual and collective well-being. Our professional therapists are ready to assist your family in building a more cohesive and fulfilling life together. Whether you’re dealing with conflicts, communication challenges, or seeking support during transitions, our organization is dedicated to making a positive impact on your family’s emotional health. Building stronger bonds and nurturing unity is the heart of our work.

Nestled in the heart of Thika, Kenya, the Susan Gitau Counselling Foundation embodies a dedication to improving the well-being of our diverse community. In this article, we delve into the profound significance of our community outreach program and its central role in our organization’s mission.

As a non-profit committed to fostering growth, resilience, and unity, we provide accessible, professional support to individuals and families, making a profound impact on those who call Thika home.

Educational Support

We have proudly helped pay school fees for students in colleges, primary, and secondary schools across different counties in Kenya. This support extends the opportunity for a brighter future to those who may otherwise be left behind.

Empowering Vulnerable Populations

Our outreach efforts extend a lifeline to teen mothers, providing emotional support, education, and essential resources to help them reclaim their lives and provide a better future for their children.

Mental Health Awareness

Our outreach initiatives also focus on raising awareness about mental health and reducing the stigma surrounding emotional well-being, initiating conversations that lead to healing and support within the community.

Conclusion

Community outreach is not just integral but foundational to our mission at the Susan Gitau Counselling Foundation in Thika, Kenya. We understand that our diverse community is stronger when we work together, uplifting each other and promoting well-being for all. Our professional teams are unwavering in their dedication to continuing our community outreach programs and initiatives, bringing hope, opportunities, and change to those who need it most. Fostering unity, growth, and resilience is not just at the core of what we do; it’s the heart of our community.

Education is a fundamental pillar of well-being, and at the Susan Gitau Counselling Foundation, we are committed to making it accessible to all. In this article, we explore the significance of our scholarships and grants program and its central role in our organization’s mission. As a non-profit based in Thika, Kenya, we recognize the importance of empowering individuals through education, ensuring they have the opportunity to build a brighter future.

Financial Assistance

We provide scholarships to students at different educational levels, from primary schools to colleges, making education accessible to those who may face financial barriers.

Empowering Dreams

Scholarships and grants open doors for students, allowing them to pursue their dreams and ambitions, irrespective of their socio-economic backgrounds.

Education for All

Our program encourages inclusivity, ensuring that education is accessible to a wide range of students, regardless of their fields of study.

Supporting Talents

We believe in supporting students who show promise and talent, nurturing their abilities and potential.

Take Away

Scholarships and grants are at the heart of our mission at the Susan Gitau Counselling Foundation in Thika, Kenya. We understand that education is a cornerstone of individual and collective well-being. Our programs are designed to provide opportunities and financial assistance to those in need, ensuring that education is accessible to all. Whether you’re a student looking for support or someone who wishes to contribute to educational empowerment, we invite you to join us on this transformative journey. Together, we can build a more educated, thriving community, fostering growth and prosperity for all.

At the Susan Gitau Counselling Foundation, our mission to enhance well-being extends beyond our counseling services and community outreach programs. We’re dedicated to fostering a community of support, where individuals from diverse fields and backgrounds come together to make a positive impact. In this article, we explore the various opportunities available for interns and volunteers who wish to join us on our transformative journey.

From counselling and psychology to ICT, electrical engineering, and more, we welcome the diverse talents and skills that can help us create a stronger, more resilient Thika and Kenya at large.

Internship Opportunities

We offer internships in fields such as counseling and psychology, providing students with valuable hands-on experience, guided by our professional counselors. Additionally, internships in ICT, electrical engineering, and more allow students to apply their skills to real-world projects, gaining insight into their chosen careers.

Diverse Engagement

We encourage volunteers and interns from various disciplines, as their unique skills and perspectives enrich our community’s well-being efforts.

Volunteer Support

Volunteers play a pivotal role in helping us reach our goals. They assist in community outreach, supporting our various programs, and providing a helping hand where it’s needed most.

Conclusion

Volunteer opportunities are at the heart of our organization at the Susan Gitau Counselling Foundation in Thika, Kenya. We understand that the strength of our community lies in its diversity, and we are dedicated to welcoming and empowering individuals from all walks of life. Our professional teams, together with our interns and volunteers, work tirelessly to make a positive impact. Whether you’re seeking an internship in counseling, psychology, ICT, electrical engineering, or simply want to volunteer your time and skills, we invite you to join us on this transformative journey. Together, we can build a more resilient and prosperous community.

Global Impact and Affiliations

Dr. Gitau’s influence transcends national borders. As a member of the East African Standby Force, she plays a pivotal role as a trauma expert in peacebuilding efforts. Her affiliation with the Centre for Mindful Self-Compassion (CMSC) in the USA further exemplifies her global involvement in promoting mental and emotional well-being.

Conclusion: A Guiding Light in Counselling and Charity

Dr. Gitau’s influence transcends national borders. As a member of the East African Standby Force, she plays a pivotal role as a trauma expert in peacebuilding efforts. Her affiliation with the Centre for Mindful Self-Compassion (CMSC) in the USA further exemplifies her global involvement in promoting mental and emotional well-being.

In the picturesque counties of Muranga and Kiambu in Kenya, the Susan Gitau Counseling Foundation (SGCF) stands as a testament to the transformative power of counseling and charity. At the helm of this noble endeavor is the visionary founder, Dr. Susan Wambui Gitau, a distinguished academic, trauma specialist, and counseling psychologist. Her profound commitment to her community and her expertise in counseling psychology have created ripples of positive change, healing emotional wounds, and empowering individuals to navigate life’s challenges.

Educational Journey and Experience

Dr. Gitau’s journey in the field of counseling psychology is marked by a stellar educational background. Armed with a Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology and a wealth of professional certifications, she brings a deep understanding of the human psyche to her practice. Her specialization in trauma counseling, mindful self-compassion, and mindfulness equips her with the tools to guide individuals towards healing and self-discovery.

The Birth of Susan Gitau Counselling Foundation

Driven by her passion for counseling and community welfare, Dr. Gitau founded SGCF. This non-profit organization serves as a sanctuary for those grappling with trauma and emotional distress. Through SGCF, Dr. Gitau and her team provide counseling services that instill hope, restore resilience, and empower individuals to rebuild their lives.

Recognition and Accolades

Dr. Gitau’s unwavering dedication to her profession and community has garnered widespread recognition. In 2018, she received the prestigious Mashujaa Award, a testament to her outstanding contributions to academic and social community service in Kiambu County. Additionally, her role as a peace ambassador for Muranga and Kiambu Counties underscores her commitment to fostering peace, security, and healing within her community.

Supporting SGBV Survivors: A Vital Initiative

One of SGCF’s cornerstone initiatives revolves around supporting survivors of gender-based violence (SGBV) in Kiambu County. SGCF serves as a lifeline for these survivors, offering counseling, resources, and unconditional support. Dr. Gitau’s advocacy for vulnerable individuals shines through in this crucial endeavor, emphasizing the importance of empathy, understanding, and empowerment in the face of adversity.

Global Impact and Affiliations

Dr. Gitau’s influence transcends national borders. As a member of the East African Standby Force, she plays a pivotal role as a trauma expert in peacebuilding efforts. Her affiliation with the Centre for Mindful Self-Compassion (CMSC) in the USA further exemplifies her global involvement in promoting mental and emotional well-being.

Conclusion: A Guiding Light in Counselling and Charity

Dr. Gitau’s influence transcends national borders. As a member of the East African Standby Force, she plays a pivotal role as a trauma expert in peacebuilding efforts. Her affiliation with the Centre for Mindful Self-Compassion (CMSC) in the USA further exemplifies her global involvement in promoting mental and emotional well-being.