Ms Margaret G. Frank from Boston said these children's symptoms of post traumatic syndrome, whether victims or perpetrators of violence, could be subtle, manifesting themselves in varying levels of anxiety or aggression, and group therapy could have a positive effect in the development of these young people as adults.
Dr Bonnie Buchele from Kansas, president of the American association, said the conference in Cultra, Co Down, was a "mutual experience from which we can all learn".
Dr Raman Kapur, director of the North's voluntary mental healthcare provider, Threshold, said the gathering was an important part of developing effective ways to treat people with mental disorders. His paper, The Troubled Mind of Northern Ireland, contended that human relationships between people involved in the Troubles were characterised by paranoia and suspicion. "Through a number of different workshops this conference offers delegates a unique opportunity to work with our international partners to explore the therapeutic use of groups and `talking therapies' in the treatment of mental illness in Northern Ireland."
It was essential, he added, to involve the health and social services trusts, academics, social workers, nurses and other professionals in a joint approach to ensure the highest standards and widest possible treatments.
"The conference is an example of our commitment to group therapies as a cost-effective means in managing conflict, whether in small groups, individuals or society as a whole. It is part of a process which continues to raise the profile of mental health and its treatment as it is still a taboo subject," Dr Kapur said.