Training for therapists treating refugees ‘inadequate’

Therapists in Ireland have warned that training may be inadequate for treating refugee clients.

A new study found that therapists may be apprehensive and unprepared when supporting refugees.

They said they needed appropriate supervision to prevent vicarious trauma, burn-out and compassion fatigue.

The study was carried out by academics at University of Limerick (UL), Dublin City University (DCU) and Mary Immaculate College Limerick.

The research involved interviews with therapists with a range of experience – from no experience to extensive experience – in treating refugee clients, exploring therapists’ perspectives on and preparedness for supporting adult refugees with trauma-related interventions.

The study found the need for therapist training and teaching to reflect the culturally diverse needs of refugees, and the requirement for therapists to address personal biases, issues of white privilege and “saviour” mentalities, and address systemic…