Mental Health and Wellbeing

Therapy Services 

Many refugees and asylum seekers who come to this country have witnessed and experienced human rights abuses, including violence, humiliation, persecution, torture and imprisonment, as well as loss and displacement.   Experiences endured by refugees are often traumatic and can negatively impact mental wellbeing.  

Humanistic counselling is a therapeutic approach that focuses on the individual's unique experiences, emotions, and personal growth. It places great importance on the inherent worth and potential of every person, fostering a non-judgmental and empathetic environment. Our humanistic approach is grounded in the belief that everyone has the capacity for self-discovery and positive change.  

We offer:  

• Individual counselling in person and telecounselling (either Video or telephone)  

• Psychoeducation workshops and Groups  

Our team of volunteer counsellors have a wealth of experience from different theatrical models, such a psychodynamic, integrative, human givens and  but all work from a humanistic/Person-centred approach.     

We will be running  a group called Exploring Anxiety, run in collaboration with local community gardens. Participants meet outside in nature and use the environment and the support of others to explore their anxieties and develop tools to assist combating their anxiety.  

We run workshops to help with sleep and sleep difficulties, trauma, stress and low mood. 

Health and Wellbeing 

Refugees and asylum seekers face multiple challenges in accessing healthcare: 

• low income 

• health stigma 

• complex systems 

• not knowing where to start 

• Language barriers 

At Refugee Action Kingston, our advice team helps clients to access healthcare, including: 

• Blood pressure testing 

• Mental health support 

• Cancer screening 

• BMI checks 

• Tackling social isolation and loneliness 

• Domestic abuse support 

We have also provided the following wellbeing events: 

• Women’s health events 

• Outdoor gym activities 

• Weekly ‘Walk and Talk' event 

• Men’s football for mental health 

• Art sessions 

• Yoga, cycling and running events 

Refugee Action Kingston Stories – Nafisa* 

Our client, Nafisa (name changed), had been suffering from a dental abscess for two years. She managed to be seen by someone who told her that it would cost her £150 for a private extraction. She couldn't afford it, even though the pain had become unbearable. She attended one of our sessions and finally opened up about the issue. We arranged for her to have an appointment the next day. She is now aware of where to go for help, should the issue come up again.

*name changed  

Registration

Before seeing a counsellor you will need to register with us. Once you are a registered client, you can make an appointment to see an adviser who will then refer you to the counsellor.

Help outside of office hours

If you suffer from mental health problems, you should tell your GP (doctor) as they are the best people to help you.

If it’s an emergency you should telephone the emergency services on 999 or visit your local hospital.

If you would like to talk to someone about how you’re feeling, you can call The Samaritans at any time and for free on 116 123.

Kingston iCope also offers a service you can access.

How to book an appointment

To book an appointment call 020 8547 0115 or email admin@refugeeactionkingston.org.uk.