Panel Discussion 19 - Expanding Access to Cognitive Behavioral Therapies in Areas of Crisis: Global Training and Dissemination Efforts

In regions affected by conflict and crisis, access to evidence-based mental health treatment is critical yet often limited. This panel brings together experts leading large-scale training and dissemination initiatives in Cognitive Behavioral Therapies (CBTs) for trauma in Israel, Syria, Myanmar, and Ukraine. Moderated by Dr. Katy Dondanville, Director of the STRONG STAR Training Initiative, the discussion will highlight innovative strategies to increase access to PTSD treatment and suicide prevention efforts in crisis settings.
Dr. Jonathan Huppert will discuss the Hebrew University Center for Trauma Recovery’s collaboration with the Israeli Ministry of Health, which has trained over 500 public sector clinicians—in CPT, WET and other evidence-based therapies for PTSD, significantly expanding treatment capacity.
Dr. Phyu Pannu Khin, founder of Resilient Myanmar, will share insights on training community health workers and volunteers in trauma-focused interventions, emphasizing the role of mental health education in survivor advocacy and peacebuilding efforts.
Dr. Dina Abdelrahman, an Egyptian American physician and licensed professional counselor, will present her work with the Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS), which has trained providers in Jordan, Turkey, and Syria in CPT, demonstrating the effectiveness of remote consultation models in war-torn regions.
Dr. Tetiana Nickelsen, Research Assistant Professor at Texas A&M University, will discuss ongoing efforts to train a cadre of Ukrainian clinicians/scientists ensuring sustainable mental health support in a nation under siege.
This session will explore lessons learned in training, dissemination, and implementation, offering a roadmap for expanding access to CBTs in high-need settings.