Training in Art Activities & Trauma Support: essential primary healthcare services for conflict affected populations in Iraq

This 2-module Training was provided to 12 local counselors and 2 Health Managers of Medair, all working in Kirkuk, Telefar, Mosul and Sinjar, where they offer psychosocial support groups within Medair's project on Essential Primary Healthcare Services for conflict affected populations.

The goals of this Training were for the participants to get acquainted with the basic theories about trauma and trauma support, leading to a better interaction and communication with and support of the target groups. Another goal was to experience different art activities (focused on stabilization), how to reflect on them and how to apply them, in order to use them with their target groups.

Anne provided psychoeducation about psychotraumatology, neurobiology, trauma-sensitive support and the influence of art while working with traumatized target groups. She also conducted various individual and group art exercises (all focused on stabilization) and reflection on these exercises, group dynamics, re-orientation and breathing exercises. Furthermore, Anne supervised the participants while they were practicing themselves providing psycho-education and art activities in small groups.

During the time in between the 2 modules, Anne provided remote supervision to the participants, who were applying their new knowledge and activities with their target groups.