Ukrainian Psychiatric Association (UPA) is the only NGO in Ukraine that is systematically active in lobbying for the necessary reforms of psychiatric services in the country. It also monitors - from the human rights perspective - the quality of psychiatric services in Ukraine, and provides free expertise and counselling. For about 10 years, the UPA Expert Committee offers free counselling to all in need of help and support in legal, medical and social issues connected with mental health and psychiatric disease problems. UPA works with individuals and their families; provides legal support, and if necessary, represents the interests of psychiatric patients before judicial bodies. Beyond this, UPA is active in the public and media.