A Scoping Review of Psychosocial Interventions for Migrant Women With Experiences of Sexual Violence and/or Intimate Partner Violence

People with traumatic experiences of migration, sexual violence (SV), and/or intimate partner violence (IPV) are at heightened risk of mental health problems such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Group-based psychosocial interventions may offer value, fostering social support and normalisation. However, the complexity of addressing migration trauma and SV and/or IPV trauma warrants careful consideration. This review aimed to identify group-based psychosocial interventions developed for or tested with women who have experienced migration and SV and/or IPV. Studies of any design and setting were eligible, provided interventions were delivered in a group format or were known to have been delivered in a group format in other contexts. Populations under 15 years were excluded. A systematic search was conducted on April 19, 2023 across five databases: ASSIA, CINAHL, PsycINFO, PubMed, and Scopus. Two authors independently screened titles and abstracts. A wider team conducted full-text screening and extracted data on intervention details, context, and publication information. Seventeen papers met the criteria, covering 13 interventions. These included arts-based, therapeutic, and skills-focused approaches. Around half were designed specifically for women with migration and SV/IPV experiences, while the rest were established psychosocial programmes applied to this group. Tailored interventions often combined relaxation and strength-based techniques to support emotional regulation, safety, and empowerment. Hesitancy to join groups was frequently reported, suggesting that combining group with individual support may be beneficial. Implementing interventions for migrants with experiences of SV and/or IPV requires sensitivity to context and a holistic approach to recovery.