DOrSU Faculty Offers Free Psychological Consultation for Women

Dr. Rose Anelyn V. Ceniza, a clinical psychologist and faculty member of Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU), provided free psychological consultation and counseling services to victims and survivors of violence against women and children (VAWC) during a one-day wellness and self-care event today, March 10, at the Sambuokan Hall, City Hall Compound.
Organized by the City Government of Mati through the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), the event was part of the National Women’s Month (NWM) celebration and aimed to offer professional mental health support to those affected by abuse, violence, or trauma.
Dr. Ceniza ensured that participants received the necessary psychological assistance as part of their recovery process. The event also featured free legal counseling, medical checkups, and self-care services such as haircuts, manicures, and pedicures.
A dedicated mental health advocate, Dr. Ceniza has led various psychosocial support programs in partnership with government agencies and non-government organizations. She previously spearheaded “Kalig-on,” a community-based Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) initiative for young adults and currently serves as the resident psychologist of SELAH: Davao Oriental Mental Wellness Hub at the Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center (DOPMC), the first wellness center in the country exclusively for healthcare workers.
Her participation in the NWM 2025 event highlights DOrSU’s commitment to advancing mental health services, particularly for vulnerable women. The universityโs Center for Gender and Development (CGAD) continues to implement initiatives focused on gender equality, women’s rights, and psychosocial support.
The City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) emphasized that integrating mental health services with legal and medical assistance is crucial in supporting survivors of violence and trauma. They also expressed gratitude to Dr. Ceniza and DOrSU for their significant contribution to mental health advocacy in the city.
The City Government of Mati aims to sustain similar wellness and self-care initiatives in the future to ensure that victims and survivors receive continuous support for their well-being. (DOrSU PIO)