Presenters: Hamidullah Akbari, Registered Psychotherapist, New Beginnings Clinic, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), and Asma Sleihat, Registered Clinical Social Worker, New Beginnings Clinic, CAMH.
Date: February 22nd, 2022
Description:
Having to flee from war and discrimination, and establishing safety and stabilization in a new country can be challenging. Increased vulnerability due to precarious status, struggling to get basic needs met and other post-migration stressors particularly during the pandemic can contribute to emotional distress. This webinar will provide an opportunity to understand historical and cultural nuances when working with refugees from Afghanistan. Participants will learn skills and strategies to increase emotional safety through trauma-informed principles, and identify when to refer to health care professionals and additional community supports.
Presenter biographies:
Hamidullah Akbari is a registered psychotherapist with the New Beginnings Clinic at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in Toronto. Hamidullah has been supporting individuals and families of diverse backgrounds with their mental health needs. He uses cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy and solution-focused counselling as well as cultural adaption and trauma-informed approaches when clients present with mood and anxiety challenges and mental distress related to immigration, refugee claim and resettlement.
Asma Sleihat is a registered clinical social worker and is currently a Masters of Social Work student at the New Beginnings Clinic, CAMH. Asma has more than five years of experience working with refugees who have a history of trauma. She uses cognitive behavioural therapy, solution-focused, strength-based, and trauma-informed approaches.
