Toward a Community-Based Approach to Healing: A Case Study of the Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture

Abstract

This paper provides insights about the operations of the Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture (CCVT). It argues that unlike clinical approaches to health care, the Centre's strategy is unique in that it is oriented toward "breaking the circles of silence and building circles of solidarity." The CCVT provides direct services to clients as weIl as providing linkages to other services, including networking with lawyers and officiaIs involved in the refugee determination process. The paper draws attention to the needs of victims of torture and specific groups such as women, and the many reasons why there is often a time delay before they seek services.