Integrative community therapy (ICT) emerged from within a Favela in Fortaleza, inside the ‘4 Varas’ project, as a response to the suffering of a displaced population experiencing extreme precariousness and poor mental health. Thus, a methodology for group facilitation was born, structured by rules and a stable sequence of steps. From these local roots, ICT has adapted to a variety of contexts around the world. The authors describe the principles, objectives, and development of ICT, including how it achieves its goals and helping to develop sound self-esteem, rebuilding damaged social bonds, and restoring cultural values. It acts as a resilience space for both individuals and community. The latest developments in ICT research are discussed. The studies confirm that ICT is relevant in primary care, prevention, and rehabilitation, and physical and mental health promotion. It improves the relationships between the population and professionals. Urgent public policy action is required that considers specific medical and psychosocial intervention which will improve public and population health.
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