Mental Health & Psychosocial Support Program Launches Weekly Circles
This month, RTI launched weekly Mental Health & Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) circles — safe, confidential spaces where community members can come together to process trauma, share experiences, and support one another through the emotional weight of displacement.
Facilitated by trained peer counsellors from within the refugee community, the circles combine trauma healing techniques, stress management exercises, and open group discussion. Sessions are held weekly in a quiet community space designed to feel welcoming and non-clinical.
Why This Program Matters
Displacement takes a profound emotional toll that is often overlooked amid the more visible challenges of housing, income, and legal status. Many community members have never had access to mental health support that reflects their language, culture, or lived experience — until now.
What the Circles Include
- Trauma healing support groups
- Stress management and life skills training
- One-on-one counselling and referrals for more intensive needs
- Mental health awareness workshops to reduce stigma
- Peacebuilding and conflict prevention sessions
Early feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the circles as the first time they've felt truly heard since arriving in Nairobi.
How You Can Help
MHPSS facilitator training, safe venue space, and outreach materials all require ongoing support. Consider sponsoring a support group session via our Get Involved page.