Psychotherapeutic Interventions Used in Psychological Treatment Studies With Syrian Refugees: a Systematic Review

Abstract

The ongoing conflicts in the Middle East have led to a substantial influx of Syrian refugees, exposing them to severe traumatic experiences and contributing to a range of mental health issues. This systematic review examines psychotherapeutic interventions employed in psychological treatment studies with Syrian refugees, focusing on 22 articles identified across Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect. The review highlights the need for psychotherapeutic intervention for Syrian refugees due to the high prevalence of post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, grief, and loss which results from an increased risk of various forms of violence and exploitation. Psychotherapeutic interventions in the reviewed studies were Problem Management Plus (PM+), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), eye movement, desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR), narrative therapy, dance and movement therapy, art therapy, psychosocial interventions, and online psychotherapy. In the studies conducted with young and child refugees, various psychotherapeutic interventions such as cognitive-behavioral skills therapy, EMDR group therapy, art, dance and movement therapy, and early adolescence skills for emotions were applied. In studies conducted with adult refugees, it is noteworthy that studies frequently applied the PM+ intervention. It is seen that PM+ was applied especially in the camp environment at the beginning of the refugee process. In most of the studies, group format and face-to-face psychotherapeutic intervention were preferred. The findings emphasize the importance of tailored interventions that account for the cultural backgrounds and experiences of Syrian refugees. By addressing these barriers and implementing culturally sensitive approaches, mental health professionals can better support the psychological recovery and integration of Syrian refugees in host countries.