A six-day training in Tsaghkadzor strengthened the capacity of psychologists and social workers from Armenia’s penitentiary institutions to plan and facilitate group therapy sessions that support the reintegration of inmates. Supported by the Council of Europe, the programme engaged national and international experts to provide participants with practical guidance, interactive exercises, and hands-on simulations designed to enhance rehabilitative practices in penitentiary institutions.

As a result, participants improved their skills in managing group dynamics, fostering trust and encouraging meaningful engagement among inmates. They deepened their understanding of trauma-informed, ethical, and evidence-based approaches to group therapy— essential elements for creating a safe and structured environment that promotes psychological growth and behavioural change.

The training further enhanced participants’ ability to design and adapt group interventions that meet the specific needs of inmate populations, ensuring greater consistency and effectiveness of psychosocial support within penitentiary institutions. Through peer learning and reflection, participants also identified strategies to maintain professional resilience and collaboration, contributing to a healthier and more supportive workplace culture.

Participants highlighted the practical value of the training in providing tools and approaches that can be immediately applied in their daily work, reinforcing the role of structured group therapy as a key component of rehabilitation and reintegration for people deprived of liberty.

This event was part of the Council of Europe project “Further Strengthening the Protection of the Rights of Persons Deprived of Liberty”, implemented under the Action Plan for Armenia 2023–2026.