This symposium examines the evolving role of physiotherapists in complex humanitarian and post-crisis contexts, where they address the interconnected physical and psychological needs of individuals and communities affected by displacement, conflict, and chronic violence. It focuses on three key objectives: (1) the integration of physiotherapy with mental health-informed approaches to support functional recovery and trauma-related conditions; (2) the promotion of resilience and holistic wellbeing through interdisciplinary and context-adapted interventions; and (3) the development of sustainable rehabilitation services through capacity building and training that enable physiotherapy to be delivered at scale.

Under the first objective, presenter will reflect on cases and practice examples from the Latin American region, particularly working with forced migrants, former detainees, and survivors of torture in Mexico and Venezuela. These examples will demonstrate physiotherapy-led approaches to service integration, including collaboration with mental health professionals, and highlight promising treatment outcomes. The use of telehealth to provide physiotherapy services in hard-to-reach and resource-limited settings will also be explored.

Under the second objective, the presenter will share concrete, practice-based strategies that physiotherapists can use to strengthen resilience and wellbeing among crisis-affected communities, civil society actors, and humanitarian workers. Drawing from the experience of the Centre for Victims of Torture (CVT) in Syria following liberation periods, where large numbers of former detainees were released suddenly, the session will reflect on the significant pressure placed on civil society organizations and specialized rehabilitation centres. Within this context, physiotherapists played a key role not only in individual rehabilitation but also in supporting systems to respond to increased demand.

Finally, under the third objective, the presenter will present a project in Indonesia focused on improving the competencies of physiotherapy students and practicing physiotherapists working with people in humanitarian and migration contexts experiencing mental health conditions. The study includes a systematic review of international literature, alongside primary data collection in Indonesia, to reflect both global and lower- and middle-income country perspectives. The aim is to strengthen the preparation of physiotherapists to deliver inclusive, effective, and context-responsive care.

The session highlights how person-centered physiotherapy can enhance autonomy and long-term recovery. Interactive components, including case discussions and participant reflections, will support participants in adapting physiotherapy approaches across diverse global settings and populations.

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2. Pignataro R, et al. Trauma-informed care in physical therapy: practice, education, and advocacy.

3. Dee J, et al. Physical therapy for survivors of torture: a scoping review. (2024).

4. Makawa A, et al. Understanding trauma-informed physical activity in practice. (2025).

5. Delivering trauma-focused physiotherapy interventions. (2025)

6. Heywood S, et al. Physical therapy and mental health: a scoping review. (2022)

7. Refugees’ experiences of trauma-focused physiotherapy. (2026).

8. International Organization of Physical Therapy in Mental Health. Policy statement on the role of physiotherapists in mental health. (2024).

9. World Health Organization. Rehabilitation in health systems: guide for action. 2019.