Explain Lay Counsellors.

Lay counselors are individuals who provide counseling and support services without formal professional training or qualifications in counseling or mental health. They are typically members of the community who have received basic training and supervision to offer emotional support, guidance, and assistance to their peers or community members facing personal, social, or psychological challenges.

Lay counselors may work in a variety of settings, including community-based organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), schools, healthcare facilities, and religious institutions. They often serve as frontline responders, providing initial support and referrals to individuals in need of counseling or mental health services.

While lay counselors may not have the same level of expertise or specialization as professional counselors or therapists, they play a valuable role in increasing access to mental health support, particularly in resource-limited or underserved communities where professional services may be scarce or unavailable. Lay counselors can offer a compassionate and culturally sensitive approach to counseling, addressing the unique needs and concerns of their community members while promoting mental health awareness and destigmatizing help-seeking behavior. However, it's essential for lay counselors to receive adequate training, supervision, and ongoing support to ensure the quality and effectiveness of their services.