Mental Health For Heroes
Our Heroes deserve care, support, and a pathway to healing. The Healing Hometown Heroes Mental Health Program is committed to empowering those who serve our communities.
Our program adopts a professional and straightforward approach to mental health care. We ensure that you are paired with a Mental Health Clinician and Outdoor Mentor who aligns with your specific needs, providing confidential and personalized sessions. Healing Hometown Heroes offers up to 12 weeks of Free Mental Health Therapy, combined with our Outdoor Adventure sessions to enrich your healing process. Your mental well-being is our primary focus, and we are committed to supporting you throughout your journey.
Supporting Our Heroes Through Mental Health Challenges
If you’re living with Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) or other trauma-related mental health challenges, you’re not alone. Many of our nation’s heroes, including Veterans & First Responders, face these difficulties daily. The Healing Hometown Heroes Mental Health Program is here to provide compassionate support and specialized resources tailored to your needs.
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What Is Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD)?
CPTSD is a severe form of PTSD, often caused by repeated, long-term trauma that leaves individuals feeling helpless or trapped. This condition is common among those who have experienced:
- Combat-related trauma
- Occupational trauma from public service roles
- Domestic violence
- Childhood neglect or abuse
- Sexual abuse
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Although not yet officially included in the DSM-5 (used by many U.S. therapists), CPTSD is recognized internationally and by mental health professionals who specialize in trauma. Healing Hometown Heroes provides access to therapists who understand the unique struggles of those who serve our communities.
What Are the Symptoms of CPTSD?
CPTSD can manifest differently for everyone, but common symptoms include:
- Emotional challenges: Difficulty regulating emotions, feelings of shame, and anger issues.
- Cognitive difficulties: Flashbacks, dissociation, and intrusive memories.
- Relationship struggles: Isolation, trust issues, sexual tension, and difficulty maintaining close connections.
- Hypervigilance: Sensitivity to sounds, crowds, or other environmental triggers.
- Low self-esteem: Struggles with self-worth and a stable sense of identity.
- Risky behaviors: Substance abuse or other unhealthy coping mechanisms.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or experiencing suicidal thoughts, help is available.
Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text 988.
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How Healing Hometown Heroes Can Help?
We understand that healing requires a supportive and safe environment. Through our program, we offer:
- Trauma-informed therapy: Sessions led by professionals specializing in CPTSD and PTSD.
- Outdoor-based therapy: Activities like kayaking, biking, fishing, and hiking to promote mental wellness through nature.
- Peer support: Opportunities to connect with others who understand the challenges faced by our nation’s heroes.
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How we choose our therapist?
Choosing a therapist is a personal decision, however we’re here to help you find the right fit. Some of the things we look for in our licensed therapist are:
- What experience do they have working with veterans or first responders?
- What therapeutic approaches do they use for CPTSD?
- Can their therapy be combined with outdoor or activity-based interventions?
We also prefer for their focuses to be evidence-based therapies such as:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Trauma-focused talk therapy
Join the Healing Hometown Heroes Program
Take the first step toward healing today. Contact Us to match you with a counselor and mentor or learn more about making a difference in the lives of those who have given so much for us.
