ABSTRACT
The maxim of “a stitch in time saves nine” needs to be borne in mind when thinking about and planning therapeutic work with refugees. Many professionals could be helpful in that process, among them general medical practitioners as the first line of contact, then schools, and psychotherapists. Therapists are more likely to attend to people who are experiencing psychological and emotional problems, but there are others involved in hospitalization, religious counselling, or other assistance who might also need to be able to understand the cultural context of the psychological presentation. Family therapists and systemic therapists, social workers, doctors, counsellors, and psychotherapists are among the group. Psychotherapists are more familiar with those who present problems of relationships, or finding meaning in life after personal trauma and loss. Therapists coming from traditional psychoanalytic backgrounds to work with refugees and asylum seekers face a considerable challenge. Therapeutic intervention with a family can prove more helpful than individual help.
