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Unaccompanied Minors: Trauma, Mental Health, and the Realities of the US Migration Experience

Earn Continuing Education Credits (CEs): By listening to this episode, you can earn CEs if you join the Affirm Academy! To learn more and register, visit affirmmentalhealth.com, and click on the "Join the Affirm Academy" button.

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Episode Summary: In this episode of The Affirming Minds Podcast, we take a deep dive into the trauma, systemic barriers, and mental health needs of unaccompanied minors who migrate to the United States. Our guest, Brenda Punksy, LCSW, LLM, brings years of experience working with immigrant youth, offering a unique perspective at the intersection of clinical care, advocacy, and immigration policy.

Unaccompanied minors often endure dangerous migration journeys, exposure to violence, separation from family, and systemic obstacles upon arrival in the U.S. Despite these challenges, many display incredible resilience, and with the right support, can heal and thrive. This conversation sheds light on trauma-informed approaches that mental health professionals, educators, and advocates can use to effectively support these children.

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What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • Why unaccompanied minors leave their countries of origin, including the impact of violence, persecution, poverty, and political instability
  • What unaccompanied minors encounter on their migration journey, including risks like extortion, trafficking, and family separation
  • Common trauma responses in unaccompanied minors, including psychological, emotional, and behavioral manifestations
  • How systemic barriers—such as legal complexities, lack of access to care, and policy changes—affect immigrant youth
  • Culturally responsive, trauma-informed interventions that clinicians can use to support unaccompanied minors
  • How therapists can advocate for immigrant youth beyond the therapy room
  • The impact of political rhetoric and policy shifts on the mental health of unaccompanied minors and their families

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Who Should Listen: Mental health professionals and advocates who are passionate about supporting immigrant youth.

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Resources & Next Steps:

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Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The host, Shaina Siber-Sanderowitz, LCSW, is the Founder of Affirm Mental Health, an accredited CE provider. She receives financial compensation from Affirm Mental Health for the development and delivery of continuing education content. There are no other conflicts of interest to disclose.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for clinical training or treatment. If you or someone you know needs mental health support, please reach out to a licensed professional.

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