Empowering Narratives Trauma Therapy for Ukrainian Refugees in Norway with Narrative Exposure Therapy

What this Trial Is About

This research investigates the effects of Narrative Exposure Therapy NET, a short-term trauma-focused therapy, on PTSD and depression symptoms in Ukrainian refugees living in Norway. The study also aims to train Ukrainian health workers in Norway to deliver NET. NET has shown promise in reducing PTSD symptoms in people affected by war and organized violence, making it a relevant approach for this vulnerable group displaced by conflict. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive immediate NET treatment or to a waitlist control group that receives treatment after the initial participants treatment and re-assessment. NET involves structured sessions where individuals reconstruct their life story to process traumatic memories, supported by trained health professionals who complete a standardized digital training and supervised practice. The study includes baseline assessment, post-treatment evaluation shortly after therapy ends, and a 6-month follow-up. During the study, participants will complete validated questionnaires in Ukrainian or Russian to assess PTSD symptoms, depression, dissociation, and trauma exposure. These assessments occur at baseline, immediately after treatment, and six months later. Data collection is conducted through interviews with therapists to ensure quality and understanding. Safety procedures are in place for participants with high depression or suicidal scores. The total study duration includes training, treatment, and follow-up phases, with careful data protection and ethical oversight.

Empowering Narratives