The Hospitaller Order of St John of God is a Catholic Order providing compassionate care to the most vulnerable in 55 countries around the world. They have worked in Korea since 1958, when they established a clinic in Gwangju. Since then, their services have expanded to include a general clinic, a psychiatric hospital, a hospice care centre, a daycare centre for the elderly, a centre for clients with Alzheimer’s syndrome, and a substance abuse and addiction centre. In addition, they provide a variety of outreach and healthcare education programmes.

 

In Seoul, the Order has 3 centres for clients with learning difficulties, offering residential and respite care, as well as group homes fostering independent living.

 

In both Gwangju and Seoul, the following specialist counselling services are provided:

 

1) Counselling the families of persons with physical or learning disabilities,

 

2) Support to those suffering substance addiction or mental health issues.  

 

3) Grief counselling for those who have experienced the suicide of someone close to them.

 

4) Individual counselling/support programs for students experiencing stress or psychological problems.

 

Today, the Order of St John of God in Korea strives to increase the scale, scope and relevance of its services, to assist those experiencing difficulties in today's society, or struggling to adapt to contemporary challenges.