Counselling in Calgary for Those Departing and Returning from Field Work
Humanitarian aid workers dedicate their lives to helping others in some of the most challenging environments in the world. Whether preparing to leave for a field assignment or returning home after time abroad, these individuals often face unique mental health challenges that require specialized support. At Solasta Counselling and Psychological Services, we offer tailored counselling services for humanitarian aid workers, both in person and virtually throughout Alberta. Our therapist, Sarah Choudhry, specializes in supporting those in this field, drawing from her extensive experience both as a psychologist and a former aid worker.
The Unique Mental Health Challenges Faced by Humanitarian Aid Workers
Humanitarian aid work can be immensely rewarding, but it often comes with high levels of stress, trauma exposure, and intense emotional experiences. Those preparing for a field assignment may feel overwhelmed by the unknown, worried about family relationships during their absence, or anxious about adapting to challenging environments. Meanwhile, returning aid workers often struggle with reintegration, grief, or even symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Common concerns that humanitarian aid workers may face include:
- Pre-departure anxiety: Concerns about leaving loved ones, adapting to new cultures, or facing unexpected dangers in the field.
- Trauma exposure: Witnessing violence, displacement, or suffering can lead to emotional distress, even for those accustomed to high-pressure environments.
- Moral injury: Aid workers may struggle with feelings of guilt or helplessness when confronted with overwhelming needs they can’t fully address.
- Isolation and reintegration challenges: Returning home may bring feelings of disconnection, a sense of “reverse culture shock,” or difficulty relating to friends and family who may not understand their experiences.
These complex emotional experiences require compassionate and specialized therapeutic support to help aid workers build resilience and maintain their mental well-being.
How Counselling in Calgary Can Support Humanitarian Aid Workers
At Solasta, Sarah offers dedicated counselling for humanitarian aid workers in Calgary and across Alberta. Sarah’s unique background as both a Registered Provisional Psychologist and a former pharmacist with Médecins Sans Frontières allows her to deeply understand the physical, emotional, and psychological toll that this work can bring.
Sarah’s expertise includes working with trauma, anxiety, depression, and cultural concerns—issues that often overlap with the experiences of humanitarian aid workers. Her therapeutic approach integrates multiple modalities to provide personalized support, including:
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): A powerful trauma-focused therapy that helps clients process distressing memories and build emotional resilience.
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): An effective method for helping aid workers manage difficult emotions, such as anxiety or guilt, by fostering mindfulness and self-compassion.
- Client-Centered Therapy: Sarah provides a warm, non-judgmental space where clients feel safe exploring their emotions and concerns.
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): This approach equips aid workers with practical coping strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts.
Counselling for Aid Workers Preparing for Departure
For those about to embark on a field assignment, pre-departure counselling can provide vital mental preparation. Sarah offers guidance on:
- Developing healthy coping strategies for stress and anxiety.
- Strengthening communication skills for working in high-pressure, multicultural environments.
- Managing feelings of guilt or worry about leaving family and loved ones.
By addressing these concerns in advance, humanitarian aid workers can enter their assignments feeling more grounded and prepared for the emotional demands of their work.
Counselling for Returning Aid Workers
Returning home after a field assignment often presents unexpected challenges. Feelings of disconnection, grief, or culture shock are common. Sarah supports returning aid workers by:
- Helping them process traumatic experiences through EMDR and other trauma-informed therapies.
- Providing strategies for rebuilding relationships with loved ones after a period of separation.
- Supporting individuals as they reintegrate into everyday life, work, and social routines.
Sarah’s personal experience with humanitarian work gives her a unique ability to empathize with these challenges and provide practical tools for healing and growth.
Virtual Counselling for Humanitarian Aid Workers Across Alberta
At Solasta Counselling and Psychological Services, we recognize that humanitarian aid workers may not always be able to attend in-person sessions. For this reason, we offers secure and confidential virtual counselling for clients across Alberta. Whether you’re located in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, or a more remote community, Sarah’s services are accessible to support your mental well-being.
Why Choose Solasta Counselling for Humanitarian Aid Worker Support?
Our practice is dedicated to providing empathetic, client-focused care that prioritizes your unique experiences and mental health needs. Sarah brings a combination of psychological expertise and firsthand humanitarian experience, making her especially equipped to support those navigating the emotional complexities of this field.
If you are a humanitarian aid worker preparing for deployment, currently on a field assignment, or adjusting to life after returning home, we invite you to connect with Sarah. Together, we can build the skills and emotional resilience needed to support your well-being as you continue your vital work.
Contact Solasta Counselling and Psychological Services in Calgary
For compassionate support tailored to humanitarian aid workers, contact Solasta in Calgary. We offer both in-person and virtual therapy options to meet your unique needs.
Book an appointment today with Sarah Choudhry to start your journey toward greater emotional well-being and resilience.