Meet our counselor, Karmen. Combining her professional expertise in psychology with a heartfelt commitment to her faith, she has spent years walking alongside Lebanon’s youth, offering them guidance and hope. Through her years of work at the Manara Youth Center and her current role in our School Ministry, she continues to impact young lives. In this interview, she shares her journey, her passion for mental health, and how she integrates her faith into her calling.
Was there a defining moment or experience in your life that sparked your passion for mental health?
When I graduated from college, I wanted to choose a major that I loved—not just for financial gain. I wanted to do something that positively impacted those around me. In tenth grade, I decided to pursue psychology, even though it wasn’t very popular in Lebanon at the time. Therapy was stigmatized, but I wanted to help others deeply and understand my own journey better.
How did your story with YFC Lebanon start?
I came to faith during my first year of college and decided that my identity as a Christ follower would shape everything I did, including my profession. I told the Lord I would use my specialization for His glory. Just a few months before graduation, someone from my church told me YFC Lebanon was looking for a counselor. I applied immediately and started working at the Manara Youth Center one month after graduating. It felt like the Lord’s affirmation, as I had just completed an internship counseling students at the Nazarene Evangelical School.
What part of your work feels like a calling rather than just a job?
I see God’s calling in the way my work impacts youth. When I started studying psychology, I committed it to Him, and He has used it ever since. The fruits of my work—though sometimes slow to appear—are evidence of His involvement. Witnessing positive changes in the lives of youth confirms that this work is more than a job; it’s a ministry.
What lessons from your time at Manara Youth Center have shaped your current work?
At Manara, I counseled youth from diverse and challenging backgrounds. Many faced immense struggles, yet I learned that sometimes they don’t need solutions; they just need someone to listen and understand them. Parents often dismiss their emotions, saying things like, “You’re exaggerating” or “Toughen up,” but when someone validates their feelings, it matters deeply. In the School Ministry, I work with youth from a different demographic, but their needs are similar. They crave understanding and love, though their struggles vary.
What are some standout moments or achievements in your role?
Recently, I conducted two mental health events at YFC’s Axis Youth Center (in Zahle) about unboxing emotions. Afterward, three teens sought counseling, including one who initially rejected the idea. This was a breakthrough moment. Another highlight was returning to counseling youth at one of YFC’s partner schools after a long absence (due to the recent war) and seeing how eager the teens were to talk to me. Their excitement reminded me that I was making a difference in their lives. I’m also encouraged by the possibility of starting a trauma healing curriculum in Zahle, which could open doors for youth to explore questions like, “If God loves me, why do I suffer?”
What surprising lessons have youth taught you?
Each youth is unique, even when facing similar challenges. They’ve taught me to approach every individual differently, which requires creativity and adaptability. I’ve also learned how knowledgeable they are. Some come to me already self-diagnosed. This has shown me that they don’t need information as much as they need understanding and support. Through their stories, I see how God has a unique plan for each person. Walking alongside them, whether they are believers or not, is a privilege.
How do you help youth draw closer to God?
While I work professionally, I seize opportunities to share my faith. If a youth brings up God, I speak openly about Him. For non-believers, I might gently suggest that their deepest needs point to a need for God. For believing youth, my counseling often includes biblical principles. Non-believers lack the hope we have in Christ, and while psychological techniques are valuable, true healing ultimately comes from God.
How do you stay motivated and grounded in emotionally intense situations?
This work is my passion, which helps me recharge rather than drain. However, I do experience fatigue, especially when faced with difficult stories I can’t change. To stay grounded, I rely on my close circle for emotional support and occasionally see a specialist myself. My relationship with God is also crucial. I pray for the youth and trust that God is ultimately in control of their lives.