100 Yazidi Women & Girls Graduate from Farida Global’s CBT Healing Program
Over the course of three months — from April to July 2025 — 100 Yazidi women and girls who survived genocide, captivity, and displacement walked together through a journey of healing.
This was not just a series of sessions.
It was a return to self.
It was sisterhood in motion.
It was transformation.
Facilitated by Farida e.V., and in partnership with Bellwether International, this Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) program provided a safe, survivor-led, and trauma-informed space for healing, learning, and reclaiming control over their lives.
“At first, I could not speak. I had only fear inside me. Now, I can name my feelings. I even sleep better.” – A 25-year-old participant from Sharya
“I used to say: ‘No one understands me.’ Today, I say: ‘I understand myself.’” – CBT group member, 26 years old
“After practicing the breathing exercises, I was able to sleep without nightmares for the first time in years.” Another participant of the sessions.
Each woman attended 8 intensive CBT sessions focused on:
- Grounding and emotion regulation
- Challenging trauma-based thoughts
- Rebuilding trust and self-worth
- Coping with anxiety, depression, PTSD
- Reconnecting with their bodies, identities, and futures
They shared, cried, laughed, reflected — together.
From guided imagery to cognitive re-framing, each week planted seeds of change.
And now — they graduate.
The Results Speak for Themselves:
- 100 Survivors completed all 8 sessions
- Participants reported a clear drop in distress and greater self-confidence
- Engagement scores averaged 7–9/10, showing deep connection to the process
- Women expressed a strong sense of community, many calling this “the first space they felt truly safe in”
“I came to learn how to breathe. I leave knowing how to live.” – 40-year-old CBT participant
These women are not victims.
They are voices. They are wisdom. They are strength.
And this is only the beginning.
At Farida Global, we don’t just offer therapy.
We offer a path forward. One filled with resilience, sisterhood, and justice.
With the generous support of Bellwether International, we’ll continue this mission — one story, one survivor, one breakthrough at a time.
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