In 2020, a comprehensive series of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) trainings was delivered to Heartland Alliance International (HAI) in Iraq. These trainings were developed to enhance the skills, confidence, and well-being of staff working in both humanitarian and clinical settings. The program focused on practical, trauma-informed, and ethical approaches that could be directly applied in the field.

The first module, Introduction to Emergency MHPSS, laid the foundation for a shared understanding of psychosocial support across multidisciplinary teams. It covered core topics such as the IASC guidelines, informed consent, the psychological impact of trauma, and the distinction between specialized mental health and broader psychosocial interventions. The training also introduced basic principles of trauma-informed care and emphasized staff well-being.

A more focused training on Trauma and Trauma-Informed Care explored the theory and application of trauma interventions in humanitarian settings. Participants examined the psychological effects of trauma, the role of risk and resilience, and practical coping strategies that support both survivors and providers.

To support frontline workers in direct client interactions, a Basic Counseling Skills module was introduced. This training offered essential techniques such as active listening, building trust, psychoeducation, and self-regulation tools, aimed at improving communication with individuals experiencing distress.

Another key component was the PSS Group Model Training, which presented a structured, scalable group intervention approach for individuals with mild to moderate distress. This model integrated psychoeducation and peer support, offering field teams a replicable format for delivering mental health support in group settings.

The training series also included a specialized module on Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), tailored to support children and adolescents exposed to trauma. The curriculum walked participants through each step of the PRACTICE model, covering psychoeducation, relaxation, trauma narration, cognitive processing, and safety planning. Practical guidance was offered on adapting TF-CBT for low-resource, high-need environments.

Finally, participants received training in Interpersonal Psychotherapy Group (IPT-G), an evidence-based intervention for depression and trauma-related symptoms. The course covered IPT’s theoretical foundations and core focus areas—grief, role transitions, role disputes, and interpersonal deficits. Role-plays and case discussions helped participants practice delivering IPT in both individual and group contexts.

This project represented a vital step in strengthening the capacity of humanitarian workers to respond effectively to mental health needs in crisis-affected communities, while also promoting their own resilience and professional growth.