ABSTRACT
The aim of this chapter is to describe a dance/movement therapy (DMT) approach for Yazidi women from North Iraq, who survived ISIS captivity and extreme trauma. The women and part of their families were part of a starting program for survivors of the genocide against the Yazidi people. We illustrate the process of one year of joint DMT work with them, using a phenomenological approach to document, reflect, and describe this process. Four different phases of work with an interpreter within the first year of the project were identified: building trust, developing themes, re-traumatization, and stabilization. We provide insight into DMT practice, techniques used in each of the phases, and changes made to adapt to participants' needs. Excerpts of an interview with one woman illustrate the process from a participant perspective. Finally, we reflect on what we learned and discuss the implications of the experience with DMT for particularly vulnerable and traumatized refugee populations.
