Sajha Dhago – An Art Based Trauma Healing Intervention

Sajha Dhago, a non-profit organization established on March 29, 2022. We provide a unique group recovery program for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence, natural disasters, war, conflict, and displacement. By blending traditional practices with modern trauma-based treatments, we ensure flexible and culturally sensitive care for trauma survivors.

At Sajha Dhago, we offer a path for survivors to rediscover deep and lasting psychological well-being. Many carry the emotional scars of violence and trauma, often in silence, for years. We’re here to help them heal, rebuild, and thrive once more.

What We Do

Our program is based on neuroscientific as well as socio culturally appropriate intervention which is originally developed by Common Threads Project (CTP), USA. It runs the sessions among the traumatized group of people by uniting the tradition with best activities from trauma informed therapy, bodywork, and psychoeducation.

Our trained clinical group under our supervision forms therapy groups of 15 to 20 people who have experienced Sexual Gender Based Violence (SGBV). These people then undergo 14 sessions of therapy process which involves the creation of a story cloth as well as traditional art based trauma therapy interventions. These group of people provides mutual support and safety and enables the multi-dimensional work of trauma recovery.

Our History

In 2014, Common Threads Project was piloted to serve refugee populations in Nepal. It was supported by UNHCR and organized by Transcultural Psychosocial Organization (TPO) Nepal. Nepali mental health staff have been trained, supervised and mentored to become group facilitators with level of high expertise. Over the past 9 years these specially trained Nepali clinicians have become a Center of Excellence for this unique methodology. We have conducted circles to serve populations in need including refugees communities in Nepal, earthquake affected women, sexually exploited girls and women, teen girls and women who have endured sex trafficking, forced and early marriage, and other forms of SGBV and persecuted members of LGBTQI+ community. We have witnessed evidence-based outcomes such as significant symptom reduction, improvements in functioning, reductions in shame and stigma, and building of community.

mission

Our mission is to support women and children survivors of SGBV in healing through training, interventions, and research.

vision

We envision a world free from violence, ensuring survivors of sexual and gender-based violence have access to survivor-centered care for lasting recovery.