This training, delivered by Dzmitry Karpuk, a Family and Systemic Psychotherapist who has considerable experience of working with refugees and asylum seekers, is open to caseworkers assisting asylum seekers, resettled refugees and Afghan families across the East of England.
Aim of the workshop:
To develop an understanding of how to support the Refugee & Asylum seekers (RAS) population (families, adults and children) in distress by using basic skills of Psychological First Aid
Objectives:
By the end of the session, participants will:
1. Develop an understanding of psychological and emotional behaviours of RAS population resulting from significant single or complex traumas (2 main automatic distress reactions + main needs of RAS clients that help to spot early signs of mental health issues)
2. Develop an understanding of how to support RAS clients at the beginning of trauma recovery (e.g. new arrivals) by learning the main components and steps of Psychological First Aid. Also, how to make rapid assessment of immediate concerns and needs, as well as implement supportive activities and strategies (designed for non-mental health professionals and adapted for the multiple needs of RAS population).
3. Develop an understanding of how mental health professionals support traumatised clients, why some of the services can only support RAS clients who at the beginning of trauma recovery (e.g. new arrivals) and other services unable to offer this mental health support . Subsequently, it will help to understand how to make appropriate referrals.
4. Be introduced to the basic skills of managing emotional distress (simple tools that prevent further deterioration – group exercises will be offered).
5. Be introduced to secondary trauma impact and why self-care skills are super important when supporting RAS clients (or any other traumatised clients).
This workshop has both taught and experiential elements with presentations, demonstrations and small group work involved by bringing together the latest developments in supporting survivors in the aftermath of traumatic events specifically designed for non-mental health professionals.
This workshop also incorporates introduction to prevention of burnout & vicarious trauma impact. It is a well-known fact that professionals working with traumatised clients are at a high risk of being negatively impacted by their work, specifically the development of vicarious trauma. Knowledge and understanding of trauma impact can help build resilience in the workforce.