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The resettlement process can be extremely difficult for children, particularly when they need to discuss sensitive or potentially traumatic subjects. Using play and play-based methods is a research-proven way to help children feel comfortable and safe, with a sense of agency over their own stories. In this blog post, we explain why play is critical […]
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Play can be a powerful tool for making spaces feel safer and more welcoming to children. Creating a safe space is especially crucial when working with newcomer children, who experience the stresses of displacement and resettlement. Those working with this population, from therapists to caseworkers, can use play to help children understand complicated processes and […]
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Trauma-focused evidence-based interventions (EBIs) can support healing for children and families who have experienced forced displacement. Most EBIs, however, weren’t designed with newcomer communities in mind. Adapting an EBI to the community you serve helps you reach target outcomes, build trust, and extend care to people that services often miss. Whether you’re a practitioner, a […]
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This document summarizes the state of available evidence regarding the reciprocal impacts of mental health and economic integration among resettled populations.
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Hosted on July 29th, 2026, the training was delivered by ​​Jasmine Griffin, MA, LPC, Training Officer, Switchboard, and Kristen L. Guskovict, MS, LCSW, Independent Consultant Webinar Overview People resettling to the United States often face grief and loss at multiple points along their journey. In the most serious cases, this includes the death of loved […]
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The Annual Survey of Refugee Service Providers (ASRSP) Pilot surveyed 346 refugee service providers across the U.S. in January 2025 to capture insights into their professional experiences, well-being, and working conditions. This report highlights key findings on burnout, mental health, direct service delivery, workplace safety, and organizational conditions, alongside actionable insights and Switchboard resources for […]
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Professionals working with refugees and other newcomers are often driven by a strong sense of responsibility, but unrealistic expectations and unclear boundaries can lead to burnout and reduced effectiveness. Trauma-informed care (TIC) reminds us that client support and staff well-being are deeply interconnected. The four tips below offer guidance for maintaining empathy and clear professional […]
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Substance use concerns among newcomer youth in shared living environments require a thoughtful, non-clinical response that balances household stability with individual support. This tip sheet is designed for service providers and caregivers supporting newcomer youth in foster homes, group homes, independent living settings, or other communal placements. The resource walks through six practical steps: setting […]
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This tip sheet provides practical guidance for service providers and caregivers, such as foster parents. It focuses on supporting the mental and behavioral health of newcomer teens and emerging adults, including youth in the Unaccompanied Refugee Minor (URM) program. This guidance is not a clinical or diagnostic tool. Instead, it encourages noticing changes, listening with […]
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Hosted on April 1st, 2026, the training was delivered by Jasmine Griffin, Training Officer, Switchboard; and Maya Wahrman, Training Officer, Switchboard. This webinar is Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) ACE-approved to offer 1.5 Continuing Education (CE) credits. Complete the knowledge check and surveys to get your free CEs today! Newcomers often encounter complex, […]
