A Pilot CBT-Based Group Mental Health Intervention for Sexual and Gender Minority Asylum Seekers

Abstract

This study investigated the feasibility and acceptability of a culturally adapted group therapy intervention for SGM asylum seekers. From an initial pool of 16 eligible individuals contacted, 5 completed a majority of the intervention group sessions as well as exit interviews. Thematic analysis of these interview transcripts, as well as a case study of one participant, suggested that participants had a positive perception of the intervention and developed new cognitive behavioral therapy skills, including distress tolerance, cognitive flexibility, assertiveness, and self-compassion skills. Themes identified included a reduction in social isolation, enhanced solidarity, and heightened motivation for therapy engagement. Participants expressed preferences for culturally relevant discussion topics and identified the importance of privacy and personalized attention in the individual sessions that supplemented the group program. Despite logistical hurdles and variable engagement levels, the studied intervention has the potential to alleviate mental health morbidity in this underserved and vulnerable population, as well as spark interest in further engagement in therapy.