Following the opening remarks delivered by Asst. Prof. Nurten Elkin, Social Worker Sultan Öztürk provided detailed information about the Yeşilay Counseling Center (YEDAM) and its scope of services.
Organized with the aim of increasing public awareness of addiction prevention and intervention, the “Getting to Know YEDAM” event brought together participants with the long-established history of Yeşilay and the comprehensive services offered by YEDAM. During the event, YEDAM’s operational model—which provides free and confidential support in the field of addiction—was explained in detail.
The Long-Standing History of Yeşilay
Founded in 1920, Yeşilay is one of Türkiye’s most well-established non-governmental organizations working in the field of addiction prevention. Since its establishment, Yeşilay has adopted scientific and human-centered approaches in combating alcohol, tobacco, substance, technology, and gambling addictions. In addition to preventive activities, Yeşilay aims to improve individuals’ quality of life through counseling and rehabilitation services.
Who Does YEDAM Serve?
The Yeşilay Counseling Center (YEDAM) provides free, confidential, and professional support to individuals experiencing addiction and to their families. Services are offered in the areas of alcohol, substance, tobacco, gambling, and technology addictions, using both individual-centered and family-oriented approaches.
The 115 Counseling Hotline
The most accessible way to reach YEDAM is through the 115 Counseling Hotline. This hotline can be called free of charge from anywhere in Türkiye, where psychologists and social workers provide counseling services and, when necessary, make referrals for face-to-face sessions.
Biopsychosocial Intervention Program
The biopsychosocial intervention program implemented at YEDAM is based on a holistic approach that addresses not only addictive behaviors but also psychological, social, and environmental factors. Through this program, individualized support plans are developed in accordance with each client’s specific needs.
Psychological Support and the Counseling Process
The counseling process is conducted through regular sessions led by expert psychologists. All sessions are carried out in accordance with confidentiality principles, and individualized psychological counseling is provided based on the needs of the client.
Social Work Support and Home Visits
In addition to psychological services, YEDAM also offers social work support. Social workers assess clients’ social needs and provide appropriate referrals. When deemed necessary, home visits are conducted to monitor and support the process in the client’s living environment.
Group Therapies and YEDAM Workshops
Social support plays a crucial role in addiction recovery. In this context, group therapy sessions are organized at YEDAM to encourage experience sharing and to strengthen social connections among participants.
Moreover, YEDAM Workshops aim to enhance clients’ productivity and personal development. Through workshops in areas such as handicrafts, gastronomy, and various vocational skills, individuals are supported in increasing their social participation and self-confidence.
The “Getting to Know YEDAM” event once again emphasized that individuals are not alone in their struggle with addiction and highlighted the significant role of Yeşilay and YEDAM’s comprehensive, free, and accessible support services for society.
