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Beyond where it started: A look at the “Healing Images” experience Lauren Goodsmith, MPH* In March 2004, the Baltimore-based nonprofit or-ganization Advocates for Survivors of Torture and Trauma (ASTT)* * initiated a photography-based therapeutic programme for clients. Developed by a professional photographer/teacher in collabo-ration with a psychologist, the programme has the goal of enabling clients to engage in cre ative self-exploration within a supportive, group set-ting. Since its inception, thirty survivors of con-flict-related trauma and torture from five different countries have taken part in the programme, known as “Healing Images, ” using digital cameras to gather individually-chosen images that are sub-sequently shared and discussed within the group. These images include depictions of the natural and manmade environments in which clients find themselves; people, places and objects that offer comfort; and self-portraits that reflect the reality of the life of a refugee in the United States. This description of the “Healing Images ” pro-gramme is based on comments gathered through discussion with participants and through inter-views. Additional information was gathered from observation of early workshop sessions, review of numerous client photographs and captions, and pertinent organizational materials. A fundamental benefit of the programme was that it offered a mutually supportive group environment that diminished clients ’ feelings of psychological and physical isolation. Participants gained deep satisfaction from learning the techni-cal skills related to use of the cameras, from the empowering experience of framing and creating specific images, and from exploring the personal significance of these images. Programme activities sparked a process of self-expression that partici-pants valued on the level of personal discovery and growth. Some clients also welcomed oppor-tunities to share their work publicly, as a means of raising awareness of the experience of survivors. Key words: Torture survivors, therapeutic photog-raphy, group therapy, creative arts therapy, phys-ical & psychological traum