Despite what many say is a demonstrated need to address the behavioral health needs of immigrants in Massachusetts — especially those affected by forced separation — there is no coordinated system to do so. While community groups often help in the immediate aftermath of a detention with direct aid and support groups, it’s rare for a social worker or therapist to be on staff. Case managers and volunteers do the best they can with limited resources.
“Accessing emotional and mental health support is especially challenging. It’s just not feasible,” said Reina Reyes, a community health worker and founder of the Community Healing Center Project. “People come to me saying they have to wait two months just to get an appointment with a psychologist. And health insurance is often just out of reach to many in the community.”
Based in East Boston, the group works with local families touched by detention. But Reyes said many immigrants are skeptical of clinical support because of worries of information sharing, as well as cultural stigma.