Music Therapy in Refugee Reception Centres
A significant part of CREA THERA INTERNATIONAL Belgium's work takes place in refugee reception centres across Flanders and Brussels.
Children, young people, and adults living in these centres have often experienced a difficult and traumatic journey before arriving in Belgium. Life in a reception centre is frequently marked by uncertainty, stress, and long periods of inactivity. The lack of meaningful daily activities can negatively affect emotional well-being, behaviour, and social development.
To address this need, CREA THERA INTERNATIONAL offers group music therapy sessions based on the principles of Community Music Therapy. Music is used as a powerful tool to foster connection, encourage emotional expression, strengthen resilience, and build a sense of community. The sessions form part of a longer therapeutic process and, whenever possible, conclude with a performance for fellow residents, staff members, and family.
Our Approach
During our music therapy sessions, we use a variety of methods, including:
Body percussion
Group music-making
Improvisation
Musical games and activities
Call-and-response exercises
Opening and closing songs
Group reflection and evaluation
Where We Work
Poelkapelle
At the Poelkapelle reception centre, group music therapy sessions are held every two weeks for approximately 30 children and young people aged 6 to 14. The sessions are part of a long-term therapeutic programme that, whenever possible, concludes with a performance.
Molenbeek
CREA THERA INTERNATIONAL also provides group music therapy sessions in Molenbeek for approximately 20 children and young people aged 6 to 14. Most sessions are conducted in French, as the majority of participants are French-speaking or are learning French.
Wingene
In Wingene, we work with 10 children and young people aged 6 to 14, as well as 10 adults. The music therapy sessions provide opportunities for connection, self-expression, and personal growth.
Sanapolis – Sijsele
At Sanapolis, we work with approximately 10 Ukrainian children aged 6 to 14 who live at the centre with their families. The music therapy sessions are currently on hold.
Bruges
In Bruges, we support a small group of children aged 4 to 8. The sessions are tailored to their developmental stage and help strengthen their emotional, social, and creative development.
Watch the documentary below to learn more about our work in Poelkapelle.