Abstract: This exploratory study examines the mental health knowledge and training
needs of refugee-serving community based organizations in a Midwestern state. A survey
was administered to 31 staff members at 27 community based organizations (CBOs) to
assess the ability of staff to recognize and screen for mental health symptoms that may
interfere with successful resettlement. Of the 31 respondents 93.5% (n=29) see refugees
with mental health issues and 48.4% (n=15) assess refugees for mental health symptoms
– primarily through informal assessment. Mainstream organizations were more likely
than ethnic organizations to have received training related to the mental health needs of
refugees. Results indicate that while refugee led CBOs recognize mental health symptoms
of refugees they may be less likely to assess mental health symptoms and refer for
treatment. Policy recommendations for improving CBO services to refugees are offered.