Revolutionizing Phobia and PTSD Treatment with Augmented Reality

Wayne State University's Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic (STARC) used augmented reality to enhance exposure therapy for phobias and PTSD, offering immersive, context-rich treatments for fears like spiders, dogs, and snakes. This innovative approach improves accessibility and effectiveness, with ongoing research extending to high-stress professions.

Dr. Arash Javanbakht with Tony, his research tarantula.

Healing Through Dance Therapy: Helping Refugee Children Cope with Trauma

In this BYU radio interview with Julie Rose, Dr. Lana Grasser discussed how dance movement therapy is being used to help refugee children, particularly those from Syria and Iraq, cope with the trauma and anxiety caused by war and displacement. Dr. Grasser shared her work helping these children express their emotions nonverbally, using movement and dance to release negative memories and develop coping mechanisms. She explained how this therapy not only promotes emotional expression but also teaches practical skills like deep breathing and mindfulness to help children manage anxiety in their everyday lives

Dr. Grasser led a dance therapy session designed to support the well being of refugee children.

A family worked with Dr. Grasser to create a "family shield" that represents their strengths and resilience.

Expanding Refugee Support Through Virtual Arts and Movement Therapy

Wayne State University graduate Dr. Lana Grasser and her team have revolutionized refugee outreach with a virtual arts and movement therapy program, originally launched in 2017. The program, helped youth cope with trauma, stress, and anxiety, expanded dramatically during the pandemic, reaching refugee families from Syria, Iraq, and the Congo. Through innovative online sessions, children engaged in therapeutic dance, movement, and art activities that foster emotional expression, resilience, and coping skills. They worked with 135 participants in the program, and it continues to thrive and adapt, providing vital support to refugee communities in southeastern Michigan.

Supporting Refugees Through Alternative Therapy: Yoga, Art, and Movement

Wayne State University's Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic (STARC) created a unique therapy program for Syrian refugees in Michigan through mindful yoga, art therapy, and movement-based interventions to address the trauma of war and forced migration. It was established in 2017 with funding from the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Foundation, these programs were tailored to be culturally sensitive while offering effective mental health support. Mindful yoga for adult women and creative therapies for children have proven successful in reducing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression, while fostering resilience and facilitating social connections. The initiative has led to significant improvements in mental well-being, equipping refugees with essential coping skills. learning how to reduce stress, build community connections, and improve their adjustment to life in the U.S. The initiative made a lasting impact on both mental health and social integration.

Dr. Grasser guided participants through a tension release exercise. Photo Credit: David Dalton.

Empowering Refugees Through Art and Movement Therapy

Wayne State University's Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic (STARC), led by graduate student Lana Grasser, used art, dance, and yoga to help Syrian refugee women and children process trauma and build resilience. With support from the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Foundation, this culturally empowering program offered a safe space for refugees to overcome mental health challenges, reduce PTSD symptoms, and form vital social connections. The program’s success made a lasting impact, fostering hope for brighter futures in their new communities.

Lana Grasser (left), one of the program organizers, and Lisa Malinowski (right), a yoga instructor, at a refugee therapy session. Credit: Sarah Leeson, Michigan Radio.

Healing the Invisible Wounds: Supporting Refugee Families in Metro Detroit

Metro Detroit organizations are stepping up to help refugee children and families overcome the trauma of displacement. Through innovative programs like dance therapy, yoga, and mindfulness, experts like Dr. Arash Javanbakht and Lana Grasser addressed mental health challenges in the growing refugee population, helping both mothers and children rebuild their lives. Discover how trauma-informed care and community support are giving hope to the next generation of immigrants in Michigan.

Dr. Arash Javanbakht (left), Lana Grasser (Right). Photo Credit: Nick Hagen.