In the last five years, there has been a great deal of discussion and media coverage related to various social issues including immigration and emigration. Discourse about this topic is often focused on political concerns and lacks a thorough examination of the mental health toll the process takes on the individual.

Consider the experience of a person who leaves their home (by choice or force) to begin a life in a new land. Respond to the following questions.

1. What are some of the specific mental health needs and concerns a person may have if they are forced to leave their home (by choice or by force)?
2. What do you see as the role of mental health counselors in providing care to a person who leaves their home (by choice or force)?
3. What barriers do counselors face in helping?

Please support the points with current, peer-reviewed scholarly sources/ references.