Refugee families in therapy: from referrals to therapeutic conversations

Abstract

Refugee families referred for therapy present a wide array of problems and expectations, not always in accordance with what therapy may offer. Major differences between referring professionals, families and therapists regarding problem definitions and solutions may complicate collaboration. Interventions that may overcome these barriers and move initial interviews into a therapeutic context are described. Three patterns regarding referral process, problem presentation and expectations (here called referral contexts) are outlined: ‘the relational’, where families ask for psychological and interpersonal assistance, ‘the unfocused’, where families are referred to therapy without expressing any wish for it, and ‘the fixed solution’, where families seek support for solutions that are not of a therapeutic nature. The interventions described form part of a negotiation where motives and interest for therapy are explored and agreements regarding further therapy are outlined.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Symptoms of Trauma and Traumatic Grief in Refugee Youth

“…Much of the published material on clinical interventions includes descriptive reports, case studies, or small cohort studies without control groups [40–42]. For example, various holistic or family interventions have been used with refugee populations but are lacking empiric evaluation [28,43–49]. …”

Interventions for Children Affected by War

“…Because war brings with it a host of stressors—resulting from direct injury, exposure to loss, and even active involvement in perpetuating violence—the presentation of emotional, behavioral, and social consequences can be complex. 127 Treatments focused on single disorders may therefore have limited application; what is likely needed, instead, is a stepped-care model that entails treatment components for multiple types of psychological problems, 59,88,128 including acute psychiatric problems.…”

Family, activity, and stress reactions in exile

“…Families, and especially families that have lived apart for a long time and undergone severe hardships, should be provided with substantial assistance both emotionally and socially (Sveaass & Reichelt, 2001). • Initiatives to develop social support systems also outside of the family context should be systematically stimulated and implemented (Barudy, 1989).…”