IOWA CITY, Iowa (KWWL) — As more refugees begin to call Iowa home, some organizations say the resources for them are lacking, including mental health services.

Every year 650 to 700 refugees are resettled here in Iowa, according to the U.S. Committee for Refugees.

Learning a new language, working through the immigration system while trying to build a new life is no easy task. That’s why IC Compassion in Iowa City has kicked off a new support program.

Program Manager, Noemi Ford says the idea to create IRCC, Iowa Refugee Counseling Center came after IC Compassion noticed a need for affordable and accessible mental health services.

From naturalization ceremonies to the work done by the Iowa City Catholic Worker House and throughout the history of Iowa, refugees have always bee a part of the communities. However, some say the services for them are still lacking.

“I think most cities or states first provide the basic necessities, which is obvious, shelter, food, safety, legal documentation, childcare, job. Mental health is an afterthought,” said Ford.

That’s why when IC compassion reached out saying the need for counseling was immense, Ford quickly got to work kicking off IRCC in September.

“This population is present every day in our community yet the systematic approaches have not been built up to serve their needs so the need is tremendous,” said Ford.

It’s a free service thanks to the help of University of Iowa graduate students like David Drustrup.

“A lot of folks come in and they’re telling us that they haven’t had the opportunity to get counseling services. for a lot of people, this is the first time coming in,” said Drustrup.

It’s a way for the students to get hands-on experience while refugees don’t need to worry about insurance.

“I’ve probably sat down formally one on one with ten. And we have groups with younger kids and that varies,” said Drustrup.

As the word of the program spreads the demand continues to increase.

“I think it’s pretty amazing already the interest we have received from the community both in health systems, such as the hospital system, the community mental health system. As well as the public school system, and that’s on top of all of the individuals that IC compassion has referred to us,” said Ford.

Drustrup says as a mental health professional he couldn’t think of a better way to spend his time.

“Leaving home, and these fears and everything that comes with leaving your home country and refugee status and seeking asylum. It’s a difficult process and so having our services here within IC Compassion has helped a lot,” said Drustrup.

Right now the program relies on three students, all working part-time. However, Ford says the goal is to expand the services. To do so they need licensed therapists who are willing to donate about 5 hours a week to help service the population.

To inquire about counseling services for refugees or immigrants reach out to IC Compassion at 319.330.9883.

Appointments can also be made online, here.