Group therapy model for refugee and torture survivors

Area of Science:

• Trauma Studies
• Social Psychology
• Community Health

Background:

• Torture survivors often experience complex trauma requiring specialized support.
• Existing therapeutic models may not fully address long-term community integration and empowerment.
• The Center for Torture and Trauma Survivors developed a unique group therapy approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the Center for Torture and Trauma Survivors' therapy group model.
• To present two distinct variants of this model: the Bashal group and the Bhutanese multi-family group.
• To illustrate how group therapy can extend to community healing and social advocacy.

Main Methods:

• Descriptive analysis of the therapy group model.
• Case study approach detailing the Bashal group (African and Somali women) and the Bhutanese multi-family group.
• Examination of group cohesion development and transition to community initiatives.

Main Results:

• The therapy model facilitates group cohesion, leading to the formation of social community clubs or organizations.
• The Bashal group evolved into a socio-political club for African women.
• The Bhutanese family group developed into a community organization, demonstrating successful community integration.

Conclusions:

• The described group therapy model effectively supports torture survivors' long-term recovery and empowerment.
• Group therapy can serve as a catalyst for community healing, social advocacy, and sustainable community development.
• The model's adaptability is shown through successful implementation in diverse cultural contexts.