Family Counselling

The Diocese of Cochin is committed to supporting families through professional psychological counselling, therapy, and pastoral care. Two key institutions serve this mission — the Ashray Center and CMHM India.

The Indian word Ashray means refuge — and this Charitable Trust aspires to be a refuge for those who have lost their lives’ significance.

Ashray Center for Psychological Counseling, Psychotherapy & Training

Ashray Center for Psychological Counseling, Psychotherapy, and Training was founded in the year 1999 by the then Bishop of Cochin, Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Kureethara, who wanted to find solutions for the growing family & marital problems and the alcoholic dysfunctions in Cochin. It was initially situated at the Alpha Pastoral Centre, Edakochi.

In 2012, these small services were extended under the directorship of Rev. Fr. Xavier Karuvalli. Then in 2016, the center was renovated and the service areas were re-modified under the guidance of Fr. Chilton Fernandez, the clinical psychologist.

In 2018, Ashray was recognized by the Indian Government as a “Public Charitable Trust” (Reg. No.: SRO/EKM180/IV/2018), opening possibilities for both public and private service.

The Head Office is at Alpha Pastoral Centre, Edakochi – 682 010, with branches at Mattancherry, Cheriakadavu, and Poomkavu.

CMHM India – Catholic Mental Health Ministers

CMHM India is an approved ministry under the CBCI Commission for Healthcare, based in Bengaluru, India. It serves as the Indian chapter of the Association of Catholic Mental Health Ministers.

The leadership team comprises priests, religious, professionals, and laypeople, working together to fulfill their mission of compassionate mental health ministry.

Members of CMHM India are encouraged to live a life of service and presence, embodying the spirit of the Good Samaritan as mentioned in the Gospel of Luke.