Page 336 - Total War on PTSD_FINAL

and our other therapies after the retreat ends. Everything during the retreat and after remains confidential, which frees them to open up and be honest with each other and the staff.
I wanted to work at the retreats because I know too many Veterans of different wars and interventions who have had difficulty adjusting to civilian and family life after or during their service. Closest to me was my beloved uncle, who served in Burma in WWII. He always carried the burdens of his experiences, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I also had a friend who never returned home from Vietnam, and several who came back scarred or extremely ill from exposure to Agent Orange. And I was horrified by the way many of our returning service members were treated after coming home. I loved the idea of the retreats as a way to finally give them the warm welcome they deserve, and of acknowledging their sacrifices.
My role in the retreats is mainly to provide massage therapy to the participants, but I also find it helpful to be present for the initial welcome ceremony (which brings some of our guests to tears) and many of the other activities and meals throughout the week. This way we can get to know each other in a relaxed setting outside of the therapy room, so they can feel comfortable and cared for by all the staff. At our initial dinner they have a chance to introduce themselves, and we on staff do so as well. We explain a bit about what we do, and let them know we are open to any questions or concerns they may have about the therapies we provide.
When our guests come for their sessions, it is essential for us therapists to be prompt and ready, and to project calmness and openness. The space should feel safe and un- distracting, without obstacles that can trip someone or make them feel hemmed in. Some
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