Research – call for participants
Experiences of trauma therapists working with refugees: A reflexive thematic analysis

Experiences of trauma therapists working with refugees: A reflexive thematic analysis

In interested in participating, please see the poster for further information and contact details here.

Rationale of the study

While much research examines the psychological impact of trauma on refugees, less attention has been given to the therapists who work with them. These professionals are regularly exposed to distressing accounts of war, torture, and displacement, placing them at risk of vicarious trauma (VT). In the UK, therapists also face pressures from high caseloads, limited resources, and systemic barriers such as the refugee dispersal policy. Alongside these challenges, some therapists report vicarious post-traumatic growth (VPTG) — positive personal development resulting from trauma work. Despite growing interest in VPTG, there is little research exploring this dual experience within the UK refugee context. This study aims to address that gap by examining the lived experiences of therapists working with refugees in UK.

Aims and Research Questions

This study aims to explore the lived experiences of trauma therapists working with refugees in the UK, focusing on how they are emotionally and professionally impacted by their work. Specifically, it seeks to identify the perceived challenges they face and the opportunities for growth that may arise from engaging with client trauma. The research questions are: (1) What are the experiences of therapists working with refugees?
(2) What are the perceived challenges and opportunities for post-traumatic growth among these therapists?

Implications

Findings will deepen understanding of vicarious trauma (VT) and vicarious posttraumatic growth (VPTG), inform training and supervision, and support culturally competent, sustainable practice in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy. The study seeks to reduce burnout risk, promote resilience, and highlight the need for systemic and individual supports in refugee mental health services.

Participation and Data Collection
Participants will take part in a single online semi-structured interview via Microsoft Teams, lasting approximately 60–90 minutes, audio-recorded with their consent. The interview will include eight open-ended questions with prompts to explore emotional and professional experiences, perceived challenges, and growth. Data will be gathered in a flexible yet focused format to encourage rich qualitative responses. Interviews will be arranged at a mutually agreed time, recorded, and transcribed verbatim. All data will be pseudonymised, securely stored on password-protected computer, and destroyed in accordance with the University of Roehampton’s retention policy.

Inclusion Criteria

• Aged 30–60 years.
• Minimum one year’s clinical experience working with refugees.
• Registered/accredited with Â鶹ԭ´´, UKCP, or HCPC.

Exclusion Criteria

• Not professionally registered/accredited.
• Trainee therapists.
• Self-reported severe psychological distress, trauma, or PTSD.

Ethics
The study has received ethical approval from the University of Roehampton Research Integrity and Ethics Committee and will follow the British Psychological Society (BPS) Code of Ethics and Conduct and the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (Â鶹ԭ´´) Ethical Framework. Participants will receive an information sheet and consent form before participation, and informed consent will be obtained prior to interviews. Participation is voluntary, with the right to withdraw at any point before data analysis without providing a reason.