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VETERANS GROUP SERIES 1
4 WEEK INTRODUCTION

Mission Statement:  Empowering all veterans on their healing journey, we offer comprehensive psycho-educational support. In a safe and inclusive space, we provide tools to navigate challenges, fostering resilience, growth, and renewed purpose. Together, we honor each veteran's journey, promoting holistic well-being and a brighter future.

 

Vision Statement:  Through transformative tools, we empower veterans to shift from suffering to healing. These strategies cultivate resilience, foster self-discovery, and forge connections. Our vision is a future where veterans, armed with these tools, thrive with purpose, breaking free from the chains of suffering to embrace lasting well-being.

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In our 4-Week Group is the first in a series being developed specifically for Veterans.

Veterans will gain insights a
nd tools to identify and address self-destructive patterns.


Developed and Presented by Robin Woolley LCSW and Karen Cayer US Army Veteran 

WHAT IS SUFFERING: 

Suffering is a complex aspect of the human condition that may result from illness, loss, trauma, or challenging life circumstances. It is deeply subjective, as individuals perceive and cope with suffering in unique ways. The experience of suffering often prompts a search for relief, healing, or meaning, and it can be a catalyst for personal growth and resilience.

Why Can’t I Change My Symptoms With My Thoughts?

Why it's tough to change symptoms with thoughts? Blame the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS controls automatic body functions, and your stress response (fight, flight or freeze) is hardwired. Trying to change things with just thoughts doesn't always work, as these responses are mostly subconscious. The Polyvagal Theory suggests that activities like mindfulness and connecting socially can indirectly help over time, showing it's not just about thinking but also a holistic approach to feel better.

The Dysregulation of the Autonomic Nervous System

Why does the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) sometimes act out of whack? Let's break it down. The ANS runs the show for automatic body functions, and when it misfires, that's dysregulation. It's like the stress response (fight or flight) going haywire. Imagine the ANS as the backstage crew, and dysregulation is when they're not following the script. This glitch can lead to issues, and understanding it helps us find ways to get things back on track. So, think of it as troubleshooting the body's behind-the-scenes system to bring balance and well-being.

Getting Triggered

Ever wonder why you suddenly feel overwhelmed or on edge? It's like getting triggered – a term tied to the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) we talked about earlier. When something sets off your stress response, it's like flipping a switch, and your body reacts, sometimes more intensely than the situation calls for. It's the backstage crew again, overreacting to a scene. Recognizing when you're triggered is the first step to regaining control. Think of it as understanding the cues your body gives you and finding ways to dial down that stress response – a bit like fine-tuning the script to better navigate life's scenes.

Supporting the Autonomic Nervous System To Calm

Ever felt the need to hit the pause button on stress and just find some calm? That's where supporting your Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) comes into play. Think of it like giving your backstage crew a breather – the ANS manages your body's automatic functions, and when it's on overdrive, finding calm can be a challenge. Techniques like deep breathing, gentle movement, and mindfulness act like a soothing director's cue, helping to balance the ANS and bring a sense of calm to the chaotic stage. So, when stress steals the spotlight, it's about guiding your body back to a more tranquil scene.

Creating an Anxiety Reduction Protocol

Your Anxiety Reduction Protocol is your tailored roadmap to ease anxiety. From mindfulness to resilience-building, it's a personalized toolkit to empower you on your journey to a calmer state. Let's map out strategies that work for you, ensuring a proactive approach to managing anxiety in your daily life.

Creating a Holistic Toolkit

Think of it as your personalized arsenal, equipped with tools that nurture your physical, emotional, and mental health. From mindfulness practices and self-care rituals to nutritional choices and positive habits, your toolkit is designed to address all facets of your well-being. Together, let's curate a collection of practices that resonate with you, empowering you to navigate life with a holistic and resilient approach. Your toolkit, unique to your needs, will serve as a resource for achieving balance, fulfillment, and lasting well-being.

Unity Through Rules:
Building Respectful Bonds in Our Veterans Group

To foster a secure and thriving environment for all, we kindly ask for the cooperation of each group member. We require all participants to acknowledge and adhere to the following guidelines:

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  • Commitment to the 4-Week Process:

    • I commit to actively participate in the 4-week psychoeducational program, recognizing that consistent attendance and engagement are essential for personal growth and the success of the group.

  • Confidentiality and Respect:

    • I agree to maintain strict confidentiality regarding the personal information shared by fellow group members. I will respect the privacy of others, refraining from discussing outside the group and protecting the trust within the cohort.

  • Punctuality and Accountability:

    • I commit to being punctual and attending all scheduled sessions promptly. I understand that my timely participation is crucial for the cohesion and effectiveness of the group. In the event of an unavoidable absence, I will communicate in advance.

  • Responsibility to Group Members:

    • I acknowledge my responsibility to contribute positively to the group dynamics and foster a supportive environment. I will actively listen, offer empathy, and provide constructive feedback when appropriate, understanding that each member plays a crucial role in the overall well-being of the group.

  • Active Engagement and Openness:

    • I pledge to approach the psychoeducational sessions with an open mind, actively engaging in discussions and exercises. I recognize that my willingness to share my experiences and challenges contributes to the overall learning and healing process for both myself and fellow group members.

All sessions take place on Zoom, providing the convenience of joining from the comfort of your home.

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As a participant, you'll receive handouts, exclusive web content access, and a complimentary copy of the book "Stop Suffering, Start Healing."

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Secure your spot in the group by registering for one time payment of $160 through this link.

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Stop Suffering
Start Healing

Each participant will be recieve a copy of the award-winning book authored by our group facilitators, Robin Woolley LISW and Karen Cayer, a US Army Veteran.

 

The book, titled "Stop Suffering, Start Healing: An Easy-to-Use Resource for Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma," provides accessible guidance for navigating these challenges.

Empowering veterans is not just a mission; it's a commitment to guide each individual towards healing, resilience, and a brighter future. Join us on this 4-week journey – where understanding, support, and the right tools pave the way from suffering to lasting well-being.

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