Considerations for Facilitating Refugee Acculturation through Groups

ABSTRACT

Globally, there are 70.8 million forcibly displaced people made up of 41.3 million internally displaced, 25.9 million refugees, and 3.5 million asylum seekers. Refugees have significant mental health needs and face multiple barriers to obtaining adequate mental health care. The acculturation process can complicate and exacerbate mental health symptoms. In this article, the authors discuss relevant cultural factors and present possible group interventions to address acculturation with refugee groups.

KEYWORDS:

• Refugees and migrants
• acculturation
• group interventions

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Shadin Atiyeh

Dr. Shadin Atiyeh is a Clinical Lecturer at Wayne State University and the Employment and Economic Empowerment Programs Director at Jewish Family Services of Washtenaw County. She holds a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision and a Master’s in Community Counseling. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Michigan, National Certified Counselor, Approved Clinical Supervisor, and Certified Career Counselor.

Devika Dibya Choudhuri

Dr. Devika Dibya Choudhuri is a Professor in the Counseling Program at Eastern Michigan University. A licensed professional counselor in Michigan and Connecticut, she has over 20 years of experience working with clients individually, as well as in couples, families, and groups. She specializes in cross cultural and diversity issues, as well as trauma, assault and abuse and is a National Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Approved Clinical Supervisor and Certified EMDR Therapist.

Tahani Dari

Dr. Tahani Dari is an Assistant Professor in the department of Counselor Education at the University of Toledo. Dr. Dari is a National Certified Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor and K-12 Licensed School Counselor. She has experience serving as a school counselor for K–12 students and as a practitioner in various settings. Dr. Dari’s scholarly interests are focused on advancing topics in school counseling, conducting community-based participatory research, and working with and advocating for diverse client populations (particularly youth).