Trauma-focused treatment of asylum seekers

Abstract

Trauma treatment is most successful when several conditions are met: including the stabilization of (i) external circumstances, such as secure residence status, work or other meaningful occupation and social network, as well as (ii) internal conditions, such as stable personality and physical health. Almost none of these positive factors apply to asylum seekers in Austria. The author’s work with the residents at the care facility Verein Projekt Integrationshaus shows how in their present situation (lack of protective factors and with the presence of risk factors) group interventions and treatments can be carried out.The residential care facility Verein Projekt Integrationshaus in Vienna specializes in the accommodation, care and treatment of mentally and chronically ill asylum seekers and refugees. Under the given circumstances, psychological stabilization, skill building and strengthening of self efficacy are considered to be the main treatment goals.The article describes how a project for women aims to achieve these goals. The groups are working with integrative concepts, with a special emphasis on the following aspects: variety of methods used, group skills, and establishing daily routine. Finally, the challenges of the process and the positive effects of the group are discussed.