Healing Horizons

Why is Mental Health Support Critical for Immigrants?

Asylum seekers and undocumented individuals endure extreme levels of trauma, both in their countries of origin and during their migration. According to research, 35% to 50% of refugees experience PTSD, anxiety, and depression, and many face significant obstacles to receiving professional mental health care. Without access to trauma-informed therapy, individuals are often left to cope with severe emotional and psychological distress alone, which can have devastating long-term impacts on their well-being.

For many, the path to healing involves the provision of psychological accompaniment—a unique, culturally attuned approach where therapists walk alongside clients during their recovery journey, fostering empowerment and trust. This is particularly crucial for individuals navigating the profound uncertainty of their legal status and adjusting to new cultural contexts. With your help, we can fill this gap by providing accessible mental health care, even for those who might otherwise go untreated.

Our flagship program, Healing Horizons, is a game-changer in mental health care for immigrants and asylum seekers. It stands out with its accessible, trauma-informed care provided via telehealth. This unique feature is making a real difference in the lives of those navigating the emotional toll of displacement, trauma, and the asylum process. Volunteers, including licensed therapists and other healthcare professionals, are instrumental in this impactful initiative.We will ensure participants are paired with the best-fit therapists through our growing network of organization partners, such as MedGlobal, Tzu Chi Foundation, Olive Tree Mental Wellness, The Coalition for Immigrant Mental Health, and other practices. These partners will help expand our reach and deliver culturally relevant care.On the other hand, our community partners, such as New Life Centers, The Resurrection Project, The Illinois Coalition for Immigrants and Refugee Rights, Alianza Americas, Chicago Education Advocacy Cooperative, Trellus, Dia Nuevo Comunidad de Fe, The Chicago Refugee Coalition and The Illinois Community for Displaced Immigrants, will play a vital role in identifying individuals in need of services. These community-based organizations will connect undocumented immigrants, asylum seekers, and refugees needing services in our communities with the mental health resources offered by Caged Dreams and its partners.

Our Healing Horizons program will launch a Cohort that offers a transformative space for immigrants, asylum seekers, refugees, and displaced individuals to unite and navigate their healing journeys. Open to all participants already engaged in therapy with Caged Dreams and its partners, the cohort will allow them to connect with others who have shared experiences and gain insights from community leaders who have successfully overcome similar challenges.

Through this cohort, members will also be able to engage in Healing Justice events hosted by our partners. At these events, they can learn grounding practices and spiritual techniques to manage trauma and depression. These holistic methods are tailored to improve mental well-being and foster emotional resilience.

Benefits of Joining the Healing Horizons Cohort:

• Access to our culturally sensitive, trauma-informed therapist network.
• Participate in quarterly gatherings to share experiences, engage with peers, and receive ongoing support.
• Learn practical and spiritual techniques for coping with trauma.
• Access to our extensive network of therapists, organizations, and community resources for continuous support and growth.

Therapists and partner organizations will engage virtually with the cohort quarterly, providing participants with expert guidance, support, and resources. This virtual connection will allow professionals to share insights, help participants through their journeys, and foster meaningful collaborations.

Application Information: The application for the Healing Horizons Cohort is not open yet, but the date for the first group will be announced soon. Stay tuned for updates on how to apply and join this groundbreaking initiative.