Art and music therapy for children affected by war
Strengthening the psychosocial wellbeing of Ukrainian families
To support families of children with disabilities during the war, ARQ introduced art and music therapy in Ukraine. These low-stigma, culturally relevant methods were shared through peer-to-peer groups, helping parents manage stress, reduce isolation, and build supportive networks while strengthening their own and their children’s psychosocial wellbeing.
The project was designed to address the need of Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) specialists working with children with special needs and their families for an approach to address psychosocial distress that was evidence-based, easily adapted to the Ukrainian culture, and associated with relatively low levels of stigma. Regular check-ins with participants allowed for an adaptive approach that met the needs of war-affected populations.
Capacity building for long-term impact
To ensure the sustainability of the approach, the project included:
- A Training of Trainers (ToT) model for ECI specialists
- The development and translation of manuals on art and music therapy
- The training of parent peer focal points who are now using and sharing these tools with others in their communities.
Art and music therapy: a low-stigma, high-impact approach
Art and music therapy approaches have long been used globally, including in humanitarian settings, to support children and adults affected by psychotrauma and adversity. In Ukraine, where psychotherapy still carries Soviet-era stigma and verbal expression of emotional distress is uncommon, creative therapies offer a more acceptable and effective form of support. Through group-based sessions, these therapies helped:
- Alleviate war-related psychosocial distress
- Build social connection and solidarity among families
- Provide parents with tools to support their children’s emotional wellbeing in everyday life.
Self-help and social support through Parent Peer Focal Points
Reaching parents of children with disabilities can be challenging, not only due to the heavy demands of caregiving but also because of persistent stigma surrounding disability and mental health. The peer-to-peer model offered an effective and inclusive solution. Parent Peer Focal Points played a key role—not only in supporting facilitation but also in building trust and encouraging participation. Their shared experiences helped create safe, relatable spaces for learning, reflection, and mutual support.
From participant to peer leader
Parents reported that the sessions helped them better cope with stress and fostered a stronger sense of community. Many also began using the creative techniques at home, improving everyday interactions with their children and contributing to their overall wellbeing.
One of them is Alla, mother and peer leader of a Parent Peer Focal Point group: 'I came to the training during a period of great loss. After my husband died, it was hard to find meaning in life, and I needed support. I realised that life goes on and that I can find new colours in it. I learned to work with my own emotions, let go of pain, and accept new opportunities. Now I support women who have also lost loved ones, tell them about art therapy, and share my experience. Thanks to the training, I feel like I'm coming back to life again.'
In collaboration with the Peace of Mind Foundation
This project was implemented in close collaboration with the Peace of Mind Foundation, whose mission is to provide mental health relief to children affected by war, which aligns strongly with our own. By supporting frontline organisations that use art and therapeutic approaches, the Foundation enables vulnerable children and families to process trauma through creative expression. We are grateful for this partnership, which has expanded access to low-stigma, culturally relevant psychosocial support in Ukraine. Together, we are working towards a shared vision of healing, resilience, and restored hope for families affected by conflict.
For more information, please contact Megan Bahmad.
