Australian Jewish News
Melbourne clinical psychologist Dr Ida Kaplan has been made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her significant service to community health, particularly within trauma recovery.
Her dedication to helping refugee survivors of torture and traumatic events has spanned over 25 years, making a profound impact on countless lives.
Kaplan’s extensive career is highlighted by her pivotal role at the Victorian Foundation for the Survivors of Torture (VFST), also known as Foundation House. From 1995 to 2021, she served as the manager of direct services, overseeing crucial support programs for refugees. She got involved in asylum seeker issues through her interest in the psychological impact of detention. At VFST, Kaplan has assisted families to deal with the impact of their time in detention, the effects of which can include depression, psychosomatic symptoms and detrimental changes to familial relationships. In recent years, Kaplan has continued her invaluable work as a research consultant, contributing to the advancement of trauma recovery practices.
In addition to her contributions at VFST, Kaplan has played a significant role in the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). Her research efforts have been instrumental in shaping evidence-based approaches to trauma recovery. Kaplan’s academic accomplishments are equally impressive. She was a research fellow in the Department of Psychological Sciences at the University of Melbourne and a longstanding member of the Australian Psychological Society since 1975.
Her book, Rebuilding Shattered Lives: Integrated Trauma Recovery for People of Refugee Background, published in 2020, serves as a critical resource for practitioners worldwide. Her work extends beyond academia and direct service.
Kaplan has conducted peer-reviewed research on long-term detention effects, cognitive assessments of refugee children and the effectiveness of interventions for torture survivors. She has trained professionals globally, enhancing their ability to provide traumainformed care to refugees.
Internationally recognised as a pioneer in refugee trauma recovery, Kaplan’s influence has reshaped how practitioners and organisations address the needs of refugees and asylum seekers.