Learning from the Past to Build for the Future: Reflections on Psychosocial Support Programs in War-torn Countries

This article addresses the healing process and impact on both individuals and communities as they attempt to heal from the traumatic violence of war and occupation. The psycho-social healing models presented integrate a knowledge of systems, political history, and their relationship to culturally appropriate healing strategies that are fueled by commitments to human rights and social justice. The models cited address issues of safety, the use of the arts, the power of narrative, and the importance of reconnecting and forging community bonds. The models in this article reflect a restorative justice perspective, an approach that promotes healing through a cooperative process, This process engages community members in groups that provide safe spaces to address conflict , harm, and reconnection with self and others. The original article was presented at a conference in the Occupied Palestinian Territories in 2008 and expanded to include observations and experiences during a 2014 trip to Palestine