In the words of Sofia Tsutsashvili: “When a woman speaks out about violence, she is already taking an important step.”

“I was born in the Pankisi Gorge, in the village of Omalo, to a Kist family. Later, I moved to Dumasturi, where I continued my schooling. “After finishing secondary school, I chose to study psychology at university. A field that had always fascinated me and that I wanted to make my profession. At the time, I already had my first child, and I had my second during my psychology studies. Balancing motherhood and university was challenging, but my mother helped by looking after the children while I attended lectures. She has always supported me, both emotionally and financially. A university graduate herself, she teaches Russian at the school in Dumasturi. Her support has been crucial throughout my life. Even now, when I go to work, I rely on her to look after my children. Without her, I could not have achieved so much.

After earning my bachelor’s degree, I pursued a master’s in clinical psychology. As soon as I finished my studies, I started working as a psychologist at the Akhmeta Crisis Centre, where I have been for almost two years.

My mornings start early: I get the children ready for school, see them off, then prepare for work myself. On the way, I pick up my colleagues and drive them to Akhmeta. It takes us about half an hour, but it is always enjoyable to spend that time together.

My job is to provide counselling to women who come to the Crisis Centre. First, I use a risk and needs assessment tool to identify their situation, and I try to make them feel safe and build rapport with them. Then I match them with the services they need, such as psychological counselling, legal assistance or social work support.

The most common form of abuse is psychological violence, though physical and economic violence are also widespread. Unfortunately, women often face other pressures, not only from their husbands but also from their in-laws. In some cases, after divorce, mothers are denied access to their children—an experience that causes immense stress.

The women who come here appreciate the Centre’s friendly environment. For Kist women in particular, it means a lot that I come from the same community and speak their language. It makes it easier for them to seek help and to trust us. I have also lived through many of the experiences they share, which helps me to better understand their needs, how to approach them and what kind of support to provide. I know that even one wrong word can cause harm, but a sincere expression of empathy can empower them even more.

For many women, the Akhmeta Crisis Centre has become a place of refuge, a space that helps them escape violence and rebuild their lives. This means so much to me. I am happy to see them find the courage to take bold steps forward. In moments like those, I feel that we may even have saved someone’s life.

I believe that these survivors will raise their daughters differently. They will teach them that violence should never be tolerated. When a woman begins to speak out about violence, she is already making an important move. That is why every woman should be brave and set an example for others to follow.”