Reflecting on the Success of the Accidental Counselling Workshop for Palestinian Community Leaders
This past October, as part of Mental Health Month, Gaza Association Australia partnered with STARTTS to deliver a Free Accidental Counselling Workshop for Palestinian community leaders. Held on October 16 and 23, the workshop was designed to equip leaders with skills to handle trauma-related distress among community members, particularly those with refugee backgrounds. Here’s a look back at what happened during this impactful event.
Highlights of the Workshop
1. Recognizing and Responding to Refugee Trauma
Participants learned how to identify signs of trauma and distress, especially prevalent among refugees who have experienced displacement, loss, or conflict. The training focused on understanding trauma’s impact on mental health and how to respond in a compassionate, culturally sensitive manner.
2. Trauma Recovery Techniques
Through hands-on exercises, attendees practiced trauma-informed approaches that are respectful of cultural differences. This segment emphasized creating a safe and supportive environment, allowing individuals to feel understood without judgment.
3. Developing Key Communication Skills
The workshop offered role-playing scenarios where participants practiced active listening, empathy, and validation. These skills are essential in accidental counseling, as community leaders often find themselves in situations where people open up unexpectedly.
4. Containment Strategies for Intense Emotions
A crucial part of the training focused on helping leaders manage and contain intense emotional responses. Participants learned techniques to ensure that people in distress feel safe and grounded, without overwhelming themselves in the process.
5. Emphasizing Self-Care for Community Leaders
Supporting others in trauma recovery can be emotionally taxing. The workshop concluded with a segment on self-care, where leaders learned strategies to manage their own mental well-being. This helps them sustain their ability to support others over the long term.
Impact on the Community
Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the practical skills and cultural insights gained. Leaders left the workshop feeling more confident in their ability to support community members, especially during unexpected counseling moments. This training has strengthened Gaza Association Australia’s network of support, enabling leaders to provide safe, empathetic spaces for individuals dealing with trauma and stress.
Moving Forward
The success of this workshop has set a foundation for ongoing mental health support within the Palestinian community. Gaza Association Australia is committed to continuing this work, recognizing the essential role mental health plays in building resilient and supportive communities. Stay tuned for more initiatives focused on mental health, trauma recovery, and community well-being.
