GOCSS - The Greek Orthodox Counseling and Social Services affords members of the Greek Orthodox community assistance with psychological, social and spiritual needs of the faithful.
GOCSS Mission - To support the Greek community in Baltimore by providing bilingual services, counseling, case management, consultation and education to enhance quality of life in a manner that protects the privacy of the population it serves.
About GOCSS – Life can be difficult and overwhelming when we are confronted with emotional, physical or interpersonal problems. The Greek Orthodox Counseling and Social Services is staffed by dedicated, bilingual mental health professionals and case managers who provide confidential emotional support and case management services to each of the three Greek Orthodox Communities of St. Demetrios, St. Nicholas and the Annunciation Cathedral.
The Social Services Committee was established in 1978 to serve the Greek community of Baltimore. The enthusiasm with which the congregation received the efforts of Social Services Committee encouraged the pastor and the board of directors to reorganize the program more professionally. In 1987 the Greek Orthodox Counseling and Social Services, Inc. (GOCSS) was establish. Although housed at the AOC and funded by the congregation, it is governed by a board of directors composed of representative from the three Greek Orthodox congregation in Baltimore.
Bilingual Counseling – Psychotherapy services such as mental health and substance abuse counseling, couples and family therapy are offered by licensed mental health professionals. Peer spiritual counseling is available by a staff of bilingual volunteers under the supervision of the agency. Services are available to individual, couples and families struggling with problems such as:
- Personal, physical, and occupations crisis
- Relationship problems
- Family stress
Even through GOCSS is staffed by lay people, masters and doctorate level professionals, our counseling and support services cannot and should not be substituted for long term counseling or psychotherapy. Each individual case is carefully evaluated and if need be, the individual is referred to a more appropriate source for ongoing treatment.
Case Management – A full-time bilingual case manager assists with navigating through various social services resources for help with:
- Disability entitlements
- Social welfare benefits
- Nursing home and housing visits
- Legal referral
- Immigration assistance
- Document translation and government forms
- Assistance making doctor appointments
- Transportation to medical appointments
Education – The GOCSS maintains a commitment to improving the Greek community through outreach and education.
- English language education classes
- Education to the Greek community through workshops, health fairs, and special events.
- Consultation on education to community agencies to enrich the services they provide to members of the Greek community.
Confidentiality - GOCSS primary commitment to members of the Greek community is to offer services in a manner that protects the privacy of any individuals seeking assistance through the GOCSS. All personal information is protected with the utmost care. Each individual who request services through the GOCSS is assured of compassionate, respectful and non-judgmental services.
Appointments – To inquire about services call our confidential line at 410.752.3525 or 410.633.4378
Fees – Case management and peer spiritual counseling are provided free of charge. Fees for any professional services will be calculated on a sliding scale based on income. No one will be denied access to services because of an inability to pay.
GOCSS members:
- Kerry Agathoklis
- Koula Savvakis
- Popi Angelos
- Matthew Papathakis
- Phil Bellios
- Maria Cedrakis
- Monica Neel
- Marianna Gavrilis
