BLITZ INTERVIEW: Psychotherapist Kateryna Savitska on how the scars of this war run deep and far.

A return to normal life for Ukraine is a formidable challenge. Not only the physical infrastructure must be fixed, but the nation's collective psyche must heal.

Where are you from in Ukraine?
I was born and raised in Lviv. I have been lucky (and hard-working!) enough to obtain three higher education degrees in distinct fields: law, international relations, and psychology, all from universities in my hometown.

What kind of work did you do previously in Ukraine?
Before the war, I worked as a psychology consultant in Lviv, counseling couples and conducting individual sessions. I see my role as a psychologist as helping to create tangible changes in people's lives, for example, preserving family relationships, supporting their mental well-being, and restoring self-esteem at work and within the family unit. I am proud that through our collaborative efforts, many families that may have been on the brink of dissolution are now thriving together.

(Kateryna Savitska in better times in Lviv)

How has the war changed your life and changed you personally?
The war has turned my life upside down, becoming a defining divide between my past and present. Moving to another country, Poland, became necessary for my safety and to seek new opportunities. During the conflict, I began working as a psychologist for refugees, dedicating myself 24/7 to assisting and supporting people. Collaborating with a Jewish organization here, I witnessed the immense heart and strength of people ready to help in the most challenging times. My journey of adaptation in a new country has not been easy. I felt like a stranger in this new environment; I needed to find my place and cope with the unknown. However, step by step, I found my niche and opened my private practice in the center of Krakow. Nowadays, I am working with clients seeking psychotherapeutic support. The war changed me as a person. I experienced the weight of trials and crises, which led to internal growth and self-discovery. Over two years, I sought solutions to seemingly hopeless situations, sometimes lost faith in myself and gained new knowledge and skills. It has been a challenging journey, but looking at how strong I have become, I feel that every step was worth taking. A new life has begun for me - a job, a place, maturity, the end of a relationship, and freedom. As I reflect on the journey thus far, I am filled with a sense of pride and gratitude for the person I have become—a testament to the transformative power of adversity and the resilience of the human spirit.

What has surprised you most about Ukrainians these past couple of years? Good or bad?
I've been pleasantly surprised by the solidarity among Ukrainians. Witnessing how people come together to support each other and extend hospitality, even to strangers, has left a lasting impression on me. While in Poland, I encountered Ukrainians from various regions who readily offered assistance in times of need. This sense of camaraderie fills me with pride for my people. However, amid these positive experiences, there have been opportunism and deceit, where individuals sought to exploit the situation or steal humanitarian aid. It's disheartening to see such behavior, but fortunately, such instances are rare, and they should not overshadow the generosity and integrity of most Ukrainians. Nonetheless, it's essential to acknowledge that a few individuals' actions can sometimes influence others' perceptions.

(Kateryna Savitska: “The war has turned my life upside down”.)

What are your plans?
In Poland, a whole new chapter of my life has unfolded; I envision myself continuing to grow and thrive here. Poland is a bustling crossroads of cultures and languages. My profession finds resonance here—aiding individuals in adapting and overcoming trauma, especially those navigating the complexities outside Ukraine's borders. But who knows, perhaps love will steer me to another country or continent? War has taught me the value of living in the present, embracing each moment with purposeful action. I opened a successful private practice in the center of Krakow. My schedule is filled three months in advance.

How do you see the war ending and Ukraine returning to a ‘normal life’?
The conclusion of the war and the return to a “normal life” represent a formidable challenge that encompasses the restoration of physical infrastructure and the healing and rebuilding of the nation's collective psyche. Beyond the battlefield, the scars of conflict run deep, permeating every facet of society, from the economy to individual households. As we envisage the path forward, it becomes evident that our journey towards recovery will be multifaceted and prolonged.
Foremost among our priorities will be the rehabilitation and support of our valiant military personnel, who have borne the brunt of the conflict. We must honor their courage by providing them with the comprehensive care and assistance they deserve, ensuring their integration into civilian life, and acknowledging their status as heroes.
Simultaneously, we confront the monumental task of rebuilding our shattered economy, compounded by the widespread destruction. Navigating the complexities of reconstruction will require us to harness our collective ingenuity and resilience.
Moreover, we must not overlook the environmental toll exacted by the war. The wanton destruction of natural habitats, the contamination of water sources, and the degradation of ecosystems represent an urgent ecological crisis that demands our attention.

Tell us one thing you don’t think people abroad know about Ukraine – but they really should?
I understand that people abroad might grow weary of constant news about Ukraine, but unfortunately, we lose lives every day. We are fighting for every minute of our nation's existence, hoping for a better future. Meanwhile, those outside Ukraine actively work to find their place in this complex world and help their homeland.

I want to express my deepest gratitude to people in Europe and the U.S. for your invaluable help and support! Each of us is experiencing the war in our country and a war within our souls. We've lost the security of our homes and our inner peace. As we walk the streets, you may not see this internal battle, but that doesn't mean it's not there.