Iran House restores hope, dignity, and belonging to survivors of torture and trauma through inclusive, holistic care that honors each person’s journey toward healing.
Our Story
Iran House was founded to meet a critical need: survivors of torture often lack the psychological support required to heal and reintegrate. Amid stigma and isolation, we create a safe haven- a place of understanding, belonging, and care. Our mission is to support healing, restore dignity, and empower survivors to rebuild their lives. Because everyone deserves a home where recovery can begin.
Our Approach
Our multidimensional approach addresses mental health, physical care, legal support, reintegration, and advocacy. Because survivors often face ongoing stigma and dehumanization, coordinated care is essential to breaking cycles of trauma. Through education and awareness, we foster understanding- while our integrated programs provide survivors the tools to heal, rebuild, and move forward.
Who we Are
Azadeh Afsahi
Founder and President
Azadeh Afsahi is a psychotherapist, international speaker, and founder of Iran House, a program under Houses Inc., dedicated to building healing homes and trauma-informed safe spaces for survivors of political violence. Drawing on her clinical expertise and frontline advocacy, Azadeh works directly with individuals who have been targeted for their beliefs or activism, supporting survivors as they rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
A United Nations speaker, Azadeh brings a rare intersection of mental health, human rights, and lived experience to global conversations on trauma, resilience, and justice. Her work centers on transforming trauma into empowerment- advocating not only for immediate protection and psychological care, but for long-term pathways toward healing and human dignity.
Beyond her professional work, Azadeh is a mother of three who loves being at home, cooking, hosting, spending time with friends, and embracing adventure.
“For every exhumed skeleton, there is a still-beating but broken heart; and all of them, the dead and the living, deserve respect and justice.”
— Dr. Reicherter
Mahshid Nazemi
Director of Communication
Mahshid Nazemi is a committed human rights advocate and political refugee whose lived experience deeply informs her work. Forced to flee her home due to political pressure, her journey has strengthened her resolve to fight for freedom, justice, and the protection of fundamental rights.Her work focuses on supporting refugees, survivors of violence, and justice seekers. With unwavering dedication, she amplifies the voices of the oppressed and advocates for individuals facing repression and systemic violations.
Her activism and personal story were recently featured in Le Monde, highlighting her advocacy and resilience.At Iran House, Mahshid plays a key role in shaping communications that elevate survivor voices and advance the organization’s mission to provide healing, dignity, and belonging.
Tara
Trauma-Informed Clinical Psychologist
Tara is a clinical psychologist with a doctorate in psychology and specialized training in CBT, ACT, and Metacognitive Therapy. Her practice centers on trauma recovery, emotional regulation, and healing—particularly among women impacted by violence and children navigating serious health challenges.
With years of experience in diverse clinical settings, Tara has provided one-on-one therapy, collaborated within multidisciplinary teams, and supported survivors in safe house environments. She is also an active contributor to suicide prevention initiatives and community-based mental health education.
Grounded in evidence-based approaches and guided by compassion, Tara is dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their lives with resilience, clarity, and hope.
Ally
Director of Medical Services & Education
Ally is a Clinical Pharmacist with over a decade of experience providing compassionate, patient-centered care across diverse settings. Trained in Sweden and licensed in both Sweden and the United States, she brings a global perspective to medication safety and interdisciplinary care, with deep experience supporting vulnerable populations. Her expertise includes complex medication management, psychotropic care, IV and chemotherapy compounding, and alcohol and opioid withdrawal support-always grounded in evidence-based, humane treatment.
At Iran House, Ally leads Pharmacology, Education, and Awareness initiatives, providing medication guidance, mental health advocacy, and one-on-one consultations. Driven by empathy and service, she is passionate about helping others heal and regain stability. Outside of work, Ally enjoys reading, photography, travel, and spending time in nature.
“Healing begins with safety, respect, and the power of being heard.”
"Azadeh's ability to remove shame, cultivate hope, and promote compassionate dialogue empowers others to reclaim their dignity and embrace healing."
— Helping Those in Need
"Azadeh’s dedication to uplifting communities and advocating for justice is evident in everything she does, from survivors of torture to organizing solidarity movements and providing direct aid to those in need."
— Black Women Lead
Our Services
Mental Health Support
We provide specialized psychological services, including trauma counseling and group therapy, to help survivors heal from the emotional scars of trauma. We are here to remind them of their resilience and support them in understanding and adapting to the changes in their lives, helping them navigate a new reality shaped by their experiences.
Physical Health Services
In collaboration with local healthcare providers, we deliver essential medical support to survivors, including ongoing care for injuries resulting from trauma.
Legal Assistance
Survivors often face complex legal challenges, from advocating for their rights to addressing issues of accountability and justice. Our legal team provides expert guidance and representation, ensuring survivors receive the support they need to navigate these hurdles.
Reintegration Programs
Rebuilding a life after trauma can be a monumental challenge. We provide educational and vocational programs designed to help survivors regain their independence, rebuild confidence, and develop practical skills for social and economic reintegration.
How to Access Our Services
If you or someone you know needs support, we’re here to help. Simply fill out our application form, and we’ll guide you to the services that best meet your needs.
Stories of strength and survival
Our survivor stories shine a light on the resilience, courage, and strength of individuals who have faced unimaginable challenges and found hope and healing through our support.
“The torture and abuse I endured at the hands of the regime brought me to a point where I believed suicide was my only solution. The severity of the torture and delays in receiving surgery left me unable to walk. I had no hope for the future and trusted no one because every time I trusted someone, I was betrayed.
One day, a friend who knew some of my struggles introduced me to Iran House.
For me, the House of Iran was not just a clinic! It felt like entering a new family—a place where I could finally trust again. With their support, I was able to undergo surgery and begin rebuilding my life from the ground up.
Honestly, in one word, the House of Iran has been so vital to my life and health that even my daughter talks about my therapist every day during her playtime. She eagerly awaits our weekly therapy sessions so she can send a kiss to my psychoanalyst.”
— Dariush Omran, former political prisoner
"Thanks to the emotional and psychological support I received at Iran House, my condition has improved day by day. Knowing that I am not alone, that I am understood, and that I can express myself freely has helped me come to terms with my past and better accept myself.
My hope for the future has grown immensely. I am deeply grateful to Iran House."
— Ali, former political prisoner
"I am a political prisoner who was imprisoned during Mahsa Amini's revolution. During my imprisonment, I was tortured and diagnosed with bipolar disorder. The mental and physical scars left me in constant fear, and I eventually fled Iran to save my life. I could not bear the thought of being killed.
Before finding Iran House, I struggled with suicidal thoughts every day. Iran House revived my will to live. It gave me a sense of hope and support that I had lost entirely.
My name is Davood Hadadi Nya, and I am forever grateful to Iran House for giving me a reason to keep moving forward."
— Davood Hadadi Nya, former political prisoner
"My name is Saeed, and I am part of the LGBTQ+ community—a community that is punishable by death in Iran. I have faced unimaginable challenges, including being tortured and enduring the trauma of three suicide attempts.
With the help of dear Azadeh, I was able to begin overcoming these struggles. They provided excellent emotional support and fully understood me with all my psychological pain. For two years, they provided therapy, bringing peace and security into my life, and they continue to support me to this day."
"During the 2022 Mahsa Jina uprising, I was arrested, tortured, and fled Iran to seek asylum in Turkey, facing immense challenges. Without work or support, I was determined not to burden my retired father, struggling amid Iran's economic crisis. Iran House was a lifeline, helping me find a job and restoring my hope. Now, I dream of escaping Turkey, pursuing education, and one day helping rebuild my homeland, especially Balochistan, when Iran is free. Iran House has given me the belief that this future is possible."
Impact Reports
Through our comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach, we have supported hundreds of survivors on their journey to healing. Our upcoming impact reports will showcase the tangible difference we’re making-from lives transformed to communities empowered and strengthened. Stay tuned for more details.
Volunteer with Us
Join us in making a lasting impact. We’re seeking dedicated individuals-therapists, legal professionals, healthcare providers, translators, and general volunteers-to share their time and expertise. Together, we can support survivors and drive meaningful change.
Your support transforms lives. Every contribution directly funds critical services for survivors. No matter the size, your donation makes a meaningful impact. Donate today and be a part of the change.
Explore resources specifically designed to support you, including trauma recovery guides, legal assistance information, and tools to aid your journey. These resources are here to empower you as you navigate the path to healing and justice. Coming soon
For the Community
Access educational materials designed to empower allies and advocates in supporting survivors of trauma. Explore and download toolkits on advocacy, legal rights, and raising awareness, and join us in driving meaningful change.
Stay updated with the latest news and developments from Iran House. Explore interviews, press releases, and stories that highlight our work and shed light on the broader human rights landscape. Stay connected and informed.
Afghanistan House
Iran House is just the beginning. Our vision extends beyond borders, creating safe spaces for healing and support wherever they are needed. Next, we aim to establish Afghanistan House-a sanctuary dedicated to survivors of trauma and torture. Together, we can build a global network of dignity and recovery.
Coming Soon
Contact us
Whether you need support or want to learn more about our mission, we’re here for you. Reach out to connect with us- survivors, advocates, and allies are all welcome.
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