Detecting and Responding to Mental Health and Family Violence Issues

This session, titled "Training for the Trainers – Detecting and Responding to Mental Health Issues," was specifically designed for mental health workers, social workers, Imams, and community leaders. By equipping trainers with a robust framework for early detection, intervention, and the establishment of therapeutic relationships, the session aimed to enhance community capacity in addressing mental health crises and family violence.

Expert Profiles

Nazila Isgandarova

• Background: MPS Program Director with a Ph.D. from the University of Toronto; Doctor of Ministry in pastoral counselling, marriage and family studies from Wilfrid Laurier University; Master of Social Work from the University of Windsor.

• Accomplishments: Recipient of prestigious awards including The Order of Vaughan and multiple research awards for her work on domestic violence against Muslim women.

• Current Role: Assistant Professor at Emmanuel College, Victoria University (University of Toronto), teaching courses on mental health, psychopathology, and psychotherapy.

• Publications: Author of Muslim Women, Domestic Violence, and Psychotherapy: Theological and Clinical Issues (Routledge, 2018) and Islamic Spiritual Care (Pandora Press, 2019).

Kashmala Qasim

• Background: Operations Manager at the Khalil Center; holds an undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Toronto and a Master’s in Neuroscience from McMaster University; completed the Taleem ul Quran Diploma course from Al Huda Institute.

• Experience: Former lecturer at the Department of Psychology at the Islamic Online University and recipient of Level 1 Pastoral Counselling training from the University of Toronto.

• Current Role: Pursuing a Ph.D. in Psychology at York University while working as an Educator with the Khalil Center. Her research focuses on developing Islamically integrated peer support groups for mental health in Muslim women and understanding the Qur’an’s role in shaping perceptions of mental well-being and empowerment.

Session Objectives

• Detection and Early Intervention: Provide a comprehensive framework for identifying mental health crises, with an emphasis on recognizing the early signs of distress and family violence.

• Culturally Integrated Counseling: Explore how an Islamically integrated model of counseling and therapy can enhance the effectiveness of mental health interventions.

• Capacity Building for Trainers: Equip trainers—including mental health professionals, social workers, Imams, and community leaders—with practical tools and strategies to establish effective therapeutic relationships and respond compassionately to crises.

Key Discussion Points

1. Framework for Detection and Intervention

Both experts outlined a structured approach to detect mental health issues:

• Identification of Early Warning Signs:
  Nazila Isgandarova emphasized the importance of recognizing subtle cues—ranging from changes in behavior and mood to signs of family tension and violence—that often precede more severe mental health crises.

• Risk Assessment Tools:
  They discussed the use of culturally sensitive screening tools that can be integrated into community programs, allowing for early identification of at-risk individuals.

• Crisis Intervention Strategies:
  The speakers provided step-by-step guidelines on how trainers can intervene promptly and effectively, ensuring that individuals receive the support they need before issues escalate.

2. Islamically Integrated Model of Counselling and Therapy

• Integration of Spirituality and Psychology:
  Both experts highlighted that mental health interventions in the Kashmiri context must be sensitive to cultural and religious values. By incorporating Islamic teachings and spiritual practices into counseling methods, the approach becomes more relatable and acceptable to the community.

• Establishing Therapeutic Relationships:
  Kashmala Qasim discussed practical techniques for building trust and empathy with clients, including active listening, non-judgmental support, and the use of Qur’anic verses that inspire hope and resilience.

• Addressing Family Violence:
  Nazila Isgandarova drew on her extensive research on domestic violence against Muslim women to underline the importance of addressing not just individual mental health but also the dynamics of family violence. She provided insights into creating safe spaces where victims can share their experiences and access specialized support.

3. Training the Trainers

• Capacity Building:
  The session was designed as a "training for the trainers" model. Both speakers stressed the importance of equipping community leaders, Imams, and mental health workers with practical skills and tools to disseminate knowledge within their communities.

• Interactive and Collaborative Learning:
  The experts encouraged the use of role-playing, case studies, and interactive workshops as methods to build competence and confidence among trainers.

• Sustainable Support Systems:
  Establishing peer support networks and continuous professional development was highlighted as essential for ensuring long-term success in community-based mental health interventions.

Interactive Q&A Highlights

During the Q&A, participants raised several critical issues:

• Tailoring Interventions:
  Questions were raised about how to adapt standardized mental health interventions to meet the unique cultural needs of Kashmiri communities. Both experts reiterated the need for flexibility and cultural sensitivity in program design.

• Resource Limitations:
  Trainers discussed the challenges of limited resources in remote areas and explored potential solutions, including partnerships with local NGOs and government agencies.

• Integration with Religious Guidance:
  Many queries focused on how to balance clinical approaches with Islamic spiritual guidance. The panelists provided examples of successful integration, such as using specific verses from the Qur’an to offer comfort and direction during therapy sessions.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

The session on "Detecting and Responding to Mental Health and Family Violence Issues" offered critical insights for professionals working in Kashmiri communities. The key takeaways include:

• Early Detection is Crucial:
  Recognizing early signs of mental distress and family violence can prevent crises from escalating.

• Culturally Integrated Approaches Work Best:
  Combining clinical expertise with Islamic spiritual values ensures that interventions are both effective and culturally resonant.

• Empowerment Through Training:
  Equipping community leaders, Imams, and mental health workers with the right tools and knowledge is essential for building a robust support system.

• Ongoing Collaboration:
  Continued interprofessional collaboration and community engagement are vital for sustaining long-term mental health and safety in families.

Final Thoughts

This session, led by Nazila Isgandarova and Kashmala Qasim, provided a vital platform for discussing innovative, culturally tailored approaches to mental health and family violence. By training the trainers with an Islamically integrated model of counselling, the discussion paved the way for more empathetic, effective, and sustainable mental health interventions in Kashmiri communities.

The detailed framework and actionable strategies presented in the session serve as a valuable resource for all stakeholders committed to advancing mental health awareness and support, ensuring that those in crisis receive the care and compassion they deserve.

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