Expert Voices

Making Differences for Survivors

By Ansam Taleb Abu Sabha, Senior Physiotherapist

Published March 12, 2025

Artwork by a former client at CVT Jordan, showing the river of life.

People often ask me why I chose to work at CVT. While it may seem like a simple question, it actually holds many different meanings.

For me, CVT stands for caring—showing kindness, compassion and concern for others. It’s about being attentive to the needs and wellbeing of our clients and taking action to support them: Providing our clients with care and attention, treating them with importance, and maintaining transparency while being vital in their journey.

At CVT, our mission is not only to provide services but to create an environment where healing can truly take place. It’s also about making a difference in someone’s life, whether through a simple act of kindness or by helping them find the strength to move forward. This commitment to healing is what motivates me every day. CVT provides an essential service that changes lives. And that, for me, is why I’m here—and why I believe in what we do.

What is happening now due to the U.S. government funding cuts is having a significant impact on CVT and the essential work we do. These cuts are affecting not just our organization but, most importantly, our clients. The cuts from the U.S. and other key donors have created uncertainty and placed extra pressure on our ability to provide essential service. For years, CVT’s doors have been open to them, providing a safe, supportive environment for recovery. But now, with these changes, those doors are closing, and we must ask ourselves: is this right?

Before CVT and attending the sessions, I felt like I was scattered in a million pieces, but now I am one body.”
-Former client, CVT Jordan

I vividly remember the words of one of our clients, whose quote deeply reflects the impact of our work. She said to me, “Before CVT and attending the sessions, I felt like I was scattered in a million pieces, but now I am one body.” This powerful statement speaks volumes about the healing process we help facilitate, and it highlights the appreciation and meaning our work brings to those we serve.

One of our clients illustrated her journey at CVT by depicting her life before the sessions as a forest with dry trees and a river. After receiving the services, her forest turned green, and the river was filled with water. For many, CVT is more than just a service provider: it’s a sanctuary, a place where they can begin to rebuild their lives.

Another client once told me, “I love to come to CVT because I feel safe.” Safe—such a profound word to describe the place where healing begins.

What will happen to us now? Who will listen to us if not you?”

But now, is there still a safe place for them? Will the forest remain green or will it dry up again? If they are left without support, what will become of them? The absence of this critical help leaves them vulnerable, and without a supportive environment, their healing and progress could be at risk. Without CVT’s services, many may feel abandoned and unable to continue their recovery journey. The progress they’ve made could quickly fade, and the growth they’ve achieved may be reversed. It’s essential to ask ourselves what will happen to those who rely on this safe space for guidance, healing, and hope.

When we informed our clients about the stop work of CVT’s services, they were both shocked and deeply saddened. During our conversations, they expressed their disbelief, saying things like, “What will happen to us now? Who will listen to us if not you?” One of them even shared, “CVT has been like a family to us.” Another client said, “It breaks my heart to hear that such a strong organization will no longer be here to support refugees.” They all conveyed how CVT had been the sole source of help, offering not only assistance but also hope during difficult times. The loss of this vital support left many feeling uncertain about their future, as CVT had been their only dependable lifeline.

CVT was the only helping hand for us, giving us hope.”
-Former client, CVT Jordan

One of our clients added, “CVT was the only helping hand for us, giving us hope.” This statement reflects the deep impact CVT has had on those it serves, providing not only crucial support but also a sense of security in uncertain times. The recent decision by the U.S. government to cut funding is a heartbreaking blow, as it directly affects the livelihoods of many refugees who relied on CVT’s services. With this cut, a vital source of aid and hope has been taken away, leaving those who depended on it to face an uncertain future. CVT has been more than just an organization—it’s been a lifeline, and its absence will be felt deeply by all those who benefited from its unwavering support.