Ukrainian Refugee Mental Health Initiative Community-Based Mental Health Support for Ukrainian Families
The Як ти? Ukrainian Refugee Mental Health Initiative at the Edith and Carl Marks Jewish Community House of Bensonhurst bridges community-based support, Marks JCH wraparound services, and clinical mental health care.
Through groups, workshops, family activities, psychoeducation, peer support, referral guidance, and therapeutic expressive arts, the program offers trauma-informed early support for families navigating war, displacement, and resettlement.
Як ти? helps prevent individual and family strain from escalating without support and connects participants with appropriate care before distress becomes urgent. It also reduces stigma and fear around mental health care by helping families understand what support is available, how systems work, and when additional care may be helpful.
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Women’s circles
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Men’s groups
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Support groups and peer connection
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Psychoeducation workshops
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Mental health literacy and referral guidance
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Therapeutic expressive arts workshops
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Storytelling, reflection, movement, and mindfulness-based activities
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Yoga and wellness programs
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Social gatherings, family activities, community outings, and trips
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Case management and care coordination
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Benefits navigation, food assistance, and basic needs resources
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Immigration and legal service referrals
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Employment and workforce development services
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English-language learning and educational programs
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Healthcare navigation and referrals
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Domestic violence and family violence prevention and support services
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Children’s, family, and older adult programs
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Camp, afterschool, and youth programs
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Community events and cultural programming
- Laura Vladimirova, LCSW, Clinical Director: [email protected]
- Teyana Sirman, Project Director: [email protected]
- Anastasia Rovinska, Outreach and Marketing