This month, we are pleased to feature the contributions of our Psychologist, Genesis Dejan. Genesis joined the Eleison team in 2023 with over a decade of experience working as a psychology instructor, therapist, group work facilitator, and trainer. He previously served as the Chairperson of the Cebu Normal University (CNU) Psychology Department, Director of CNU Testing Center, Chapter Executive Manager for the Philippine Mental Health Association, and a clinician serving for survivors of abuse and exploitation.
At Eleison, Genesis facilitates our Connection and Recovery after Exploitation (CARE) Groups program, a support group and psychoeducation program designed specifically for youth survivors of human trafficking and sexual exploitation. He conducts Community Mental Health Education (CMHE) workshops for survivors, service providers, and community members. Additionally, he provides crisis intervention services, addressing the urgent needs of survivors in acute crisis through the provision of counseling, safety planning, psychosocial support, and connection to emergency services. In a recent interview, Genesis explained how working on these programs provides deep personal meaning:
“Providing crisis intervention to survivors of gender-based violence and human trafficking is perhaps the most immediate and intense part of my role. Being present for someone in their most critical moment of need and helping to stabilize and restore a sense of safety is both humbling and deeply fulfilling. Equally meaningful is facilitating the CARE Groups sessions for child survivors. Children are often the most overlooked in trauma recovery conversations. Being able to create a safe, nurturing space where they can begin to process their experiences and reclaim their sense of joy and identity is something I treasure deeply.
“I also find great purpose in facilitating our Community Mental Health Education sessions across different communities. Mental health stigma remains a significant barrier to healing, particularly in marginalized communities, and being able to shift perspectives and open doors to help-seeking behavior feels like planting seeds that will grow far beyond our direct reach.”
In describing his experiences as a member of the Eleison team, Genesis highlighted the importance of working alongside a team of individuals who share his commitment to serving clients in their time of greatest need:
“My favorite part of working at Eleison is the privilege of sitting with people in some of their most vulnerable moments and witnessing their resilience firsthand. Whether I am providing crisis intervention to survivors of gender-based violence and human trafficking, facilitating CARE Groups sessions with children at the shelters, engaging communities through our Community Mental Health Education program, or contributing to research through Project Luwas, every day reminds me of why this work matters. There is something profoundly meaningful about being part of an organization where every team member is genuinely committed to the dignity and healing of the people we serve.
“Eleison’s services do not just address symptoms; they restore dignity, build resilience, and create pathways toward genuine healing and empowerment. I am incredibly grateful to be part of this team and this mission.”
We express our gratitude to Genesis for his dedication and commitment to serving the community. We are proud to create an environment in which our team members find deep personal and professional fulfillment in their roles.
