Counseling House “Aku Temanmu”, is an organization providing the first mental health consultation service in Serang, Banten. The organization was established by Dompet Dhuafa Banten out of concern for social issues and in support of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) goal to improve welfare through easier access to mental health services. It also serves as a model for volunteer movements focused on mental health issues.

In December 2023, Dompet Dhuafa disbursed Zakat funds amounting to IDR 29,350,000 to support the activities of Counseling House “Aku Temanmu”. These activities include Volunteer Upgrading 1, Rumah Konseling Class, Aku Temanmu Goes to School, Pendampingan Konselor Sebaya, Youth Conselor Camp, and Volunteer Upgrading 2.

The funding for Counseling House “Aku Temanmu” by Dompet Dhuafa USA has been running since early 2024. From January to May, various activities were done, benefiting 1,452 individuals.

From January to May 2024, several activities were implemented by Counseling House “Aku Temanmu”, including:

Volunteer Upgrading 1

This activity aims to enhance knowledge and skills in the mental health volunteer movement in Indonesia. Through this activity, Counseling House “Aku Temanmu” achieved the involvement of 37 new volunteers in the mental health volunteer movement. Each volunteer experienced improvements in knowledge and skills regarding volunteerism and mental health.

The volunteers participated in a series of workshops, training sessions, and hands-on activities designed to equip them with the necessary tools and understanding to support individuals facing mental health challenges.

Additionally, the program emphasized the cultural context of mental health in Indonesia, ensuring that volunteers were sensitive to local customs and practices. By engaging with experienced mental health professionals and participating in peer discussions, the volunteers built a strong network of support and collaboration.

As a result, the volunteers not only gained valuable skills but also developed a deeper sense of purpose and commitment to the mental health cause. Their newfound expertise allowed them to effectively contribute to the community, offering compassionate support and spreading awareness about mental health issues. The success of this initiative highlights the potential for grassroots movements to make a significant impact on public health and well-being.

Rumah Konseling Class

Rumah Konseling Class is a mental health education seminar with contemporary themes, designed to be engaging and attractive for participants. This seminar was held every three months. In this event, 75 participants were involved in the Rumah Konseling Class #18, presented by Psychologist Marsya Oktriana Poetri, M.Psi with the theme: Self Harm “Is It the Only Way Out?”

The event aims to provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals can openly discuss their struggles and seek guidance. Throughout the seminar, Marsya Oktriana Poetri offers valuable insights into the causes and consequences of self-harm, emphasizing that it is not the only solution to emotional pain.

Rumah Konseling Class trying to make a positive impact on the community, breaking down stigmas associated with mental health and empowering individuals to seek the help they need.

Counseling Service

This regular activity, and still going on, is held from Monday to Friday, provides both online and offline consultation services. Whether you prefer the convenience of a virtual meeting or the personal touch of face-to-face interactions, Counseling House “Aku Temanmu” caters to everyone’s needs. The dedicated team of counselors is always ready to lend a compassionate ear and offer professional guidance on various issues, ranging from mental health to academic stress.

These services can be accessed through a link on the Instagram page of Counseling House “Aku Temanmu”. By making these services easily accessible, Counseling House “Aku Temanmu” aim to foster a supportive community where individuals feel empowered to seek help and improve their well-being.

Aku Temanmu Goes to School (AGTS)

Aku Temanmu Goes to School (AGTS) is a mental health education seminar aimed at raising students’ awareness of the importance of mental health in school environments. From January 2024 to May 2024, Counseling House “Aku Temanmu” conducted AGTS in 7 schools in Serang City, Cilegon City, Tangerang Regency, Serang Regency, Pandeglang Regency, and Lebak Regency.

With the various activities that have been carried out, Counseling House “Aku Temanmu” remains committed to improving the mental well-being of the community in Serang and its surroundings.

Dompet Dhuafa USA hopes that the support we provide will help Counseling House “Aku Temanmu” reaches more individuals and communities, giving them access to quality mental health services. We hope these programs continue to grow and have a broader positive impact, inspiring more people to care about mental health issues.