The war in Ukraine means that more and more psychotherapists who can deal with the most severe traumas of patients are needed.

Recurring anxiety, tension, helplessness, overwhelming fatigue, and constant replaying of nightmarish images and events are typical symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They usually appear within weeks or months of a tragedy. The interest of psychologists in our Foundation’s training course “Basics of PTSD therapy for Ukrainian refugees in Poland” suggests that an increasing number of war refugees are suffering from this syndrome. 

During two rounds of four-day free workshops held in Warsaw, dozens of Ukrainian-speaking therapists learned, among other things, how to recognize and properly diagnose PTSD.

In the practical sessions, there were presented examples of therapy methods. They vary according to the age of the sufferers. The form of care for the traumatized person and forms of support for their next of kin were also discussed.

In addition, the trainees had the opportunity to exchange information about their daily work with their patients. Supervision support was also provided to all participants.

The workshop was conducted by Katarzyna Podleska, an excellent psychotraumatologist who is an author of original training on crisis intervention, psychological first aid, communication, and methods of coping with stress. From 2016 to 2017 she trained dozens of psychologists and psychiatrists in Ukraine in working with traumatized patients. She regularly works with Polish rescuers and firefighters in communication and support for victims of accidents and disasters.

The project ‘Basics of PTSD therapy for Ukrainian refugees in Poland’ is co-financed by the International Visegrad Fund.

The project ‘Basics of PTSD therapy for Ukrainian refugees in Poland’ is co-financed by the International Visegrad Fund.