RAS CLINICAL SERVICES

As someone who comes from a refugee background, you may have endured organised violence, torture, harassment, imprisonment, witnessed violence, been involved in war situation and civil unrest, experienced refugee camp life, exile and migration. If so, you could be experiencing some of the following:

• Body aches and pains


• Sleep problems and nightmares


• Recurrent memories and thoughts which are painful


• Feeling fearful, nervous or restless


• Feeling as if you are reliving past experiences


• Easily scared or startled for no obvious reason


• Frequent sadness, crying or feeling bad


• Withdrawal from social contact or other activities


• Avoidance of situations that may remind you of past experiences which were painful


• Loss of memory and concentration


• Poor appetite


• Guilt and anger


• Faintness, dizziness or weakness

RAS CLINICAL TEAM

You can:

• Talk in confidence to a trained professional, who has an understanding of the issues involved in the refugee and resettlement experience


• Be able to have an experienced interpreter who is available as needed


• Expect all R.A.S. staff and interpreters to work in ways which are respectful to you and your culture


• Receive information about other agencies involved in assisting with resettlement

OUR TEAM INCLUDES

Counsellors | Psychologists | Psychiatrists | Body Therapists | Interpreters | Refugee Community Link Workers

• We work with short-term interventions (counseling and body therapy) focused on specific problems, and help you to find solutions or create plans for yourself


• We also work in-depth in longer treatment with torture and trauma issues (counseling and body therapy)


• We offer support for people who are struggling with the emotional challenges of resettling

RAS BODY THERAPY

How can Body Therapy help me with my symptoms?

For thousands of years some form of massage or laying-on of hands has been used to heal in many different cultures. It is a common language of touch, one that can be used to relieve pain, reduce tension and increase the feeling of relaxation and safety.

What methods are used in Body Therapy?

Relaxation and Breathing Techniques: Exercises taught in session and to take home and practice when you need them the most

Reiki: A deeply relaxing form of hands-on therapy, equivalent to several hours sleep, and especially good for relieving your tension and anxiety, calming your nerves and increasing your energy levels

Body Sense: A hands-on technique integrating mind, body and soul to release traumatic and painful memories, thoughts and feelings from your body with ease

Massage: Hands-on massage works on the muscles and soft tissues of your body to reduce pain and bring about a feeling of relaxation

Physiotherapy: You may be given exercise and stretching programmes, education on posture, backcare and lifting, or specialised massage techniques, to reduce pain and strengthen your body.

Aromatherapy: We use essential oils from around the world to aid your healing and relaxation.

What happens in a typical Body Therapy session?

The therapist will ask some questions about your medical history, general health and lifestyle. An experienced interpreter will be available as needed. You will be able to discuss how the treatment may help you and any concerns you may have. You can choose whether to receive the treatment with your clothes on or being partly undressed if necessary. Usually you receive your session lying down on a treatment table. An appointment normally lasts for one hour. A male or female therapist is available. After their treatment, most clients report less pain, feeling more peaceful and light in their bodies, and having a greater feeling of relaxation and ease of moment.

RAS Clinical Activities at Mangere Refugee Resettlement Centre (MRRC)

• Rationale and Objectives for RAS Clinical Programmes - Click here to see details


• RAS Services for Quota Refugees - Click here to see details


• RAS Services for Asylum Seekers - Click here to see details


• RAS Education and Training of Staff at other agencies - Click here to see details


• RAS Interpreter Services - Click here to see details