Serving Afghan Newcomers Experiencing Emotional Distress

The experience of sudden and unexpected displacement can be an emotionally destabilizing experience.For some newcomers, the enormous weight of trauma, grief, isolation, and pressure to integrate can feel too heavy to carry. Helpers who interact with newcomers on a regular basis may be the first people to notice something is wrong.

This workshop will help learners identify and recognize the signs of emotional distress, initiate a conversation to talk with and support the newcomer in distress, and know when to get additional assistance.This workshop is recommended for volunteers, community leaders, professional helpers, and others committed to fostering a welcoming environment for Afghan newcomers. Participants do NOT need a mental health or social work background to participate in this training.

This training will be facilitated byAlison Burke, MSW, LGSW. Alison is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has spent most of her career working with asylum seekers, asylees, and refugees. She moved to the DC metro area in 2012 after graduating from the University of Kansas. Throughout her career, Alison has provided therapy, case management, advocacy, training, and program oversight. Her approach to social services is mental health-informed and client-driven.