Evaluation of spiritual counseling and guidance services for disaster victims Kahramanmaraş example

This study aims to evaluate the experiences of disaster victims regarding spiritual counseling services and the effects of these services on individuals following the earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaraş on February 6, 2023. The research examined the role of spiritual support in increasing the emotional resilience of individuals in the traumatic process following the earthquake. Within the scope of the study, how the disaster victims define their religious and spiritual needs, the adequacy of the services provided for these needs, their experiences during the support process, and the effects of the services on psychosocial recovery are discussed. In the research conducted with qualitative methods, data was collected from earthquake victims through semi-structured interviews and the findings were structured with the phenomenological design. A descriptive analysis approach was preferred in the analysis process of data obtained from interviews with a total of 22 people. The collected data were analyzed according to themes using MAXQDA 2024. Within the scope of spiritual support services provided in the disaster region; It was determined that prayers and worship were organized, morale-boosting and motivational activities were organized, spiritual social service activities were offered, and Quran courses were held for adults. According to the findings, individuals receiving MDR services stated that this support made significant contributions to coping with the traumas they experienced, and that spirituality was a powerful resource, particularly in alleviating problems such as insomnia, fear, helplessness, and uncertainty. Furthermore, the attitudes, empathic approaches, and culturally appropriate religious practices of spiritual counselors were key elements that increased the effectiveness of the support process. Keywords: Disaster, Earthquake Victim, Spiritual Counseling and Guidance, Spiritual Support