Mourning and issues of identity in the treatment of refugees in Lesvos

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the contribution of psychoanalytic theory and technique to the understanding of the multidimensional experience of asylum-seekers, as well as in regard to therapeutic intervention with these individuals. Review of the most salient aspects of psychoanalytic thinking regarding the refugee experience underlines the significance of trauma and mourning within the specific sociocultural context of each individual refugee. Psychoanalytically informed intervention with asylum seekers focuses on the creation of a holding environment which allows expression, elaboration, reflection and working through of the asylum seeker’s current experience and the relationship of this experience to his or her past. Transference countertransference manifestations are critical in this regard. However, therapeutic intervention is often limited because of external time and financial factors, and these constraints posit particular difficulties and challenges to the psychoanalyst. These problems and challenges as well as the invaluable contribution of psychoanalytic thought in the understanding and treatment of refugees may be seen in the clinical work with Mr. A., an asylum seeker in Moria on the island of Lesvos in Greece.