Podcasts about Military sexual trauma

Sometimes you have to name your trauma to explain your trauma. Guess what Dr. Vanessa named her trauma Join her tonight as she discusses her experiences with Military Sexual Trauma.

Rachelle, a former US Air Force First Lieutenant and Public Affairs Officer, shares her past experience with Military Sexual Trauma and now hosts the podcast "the Silenced Voices of MST" which helps to shed light on the problem to help other victims.Our library of shows can be found at www.veteranscornerradio.comJoin us on Facebook at the page Veterans Corner RadioYou can contact our host Joe Muhlberger at joseph.muhlberger@gmail.com

Send us a textIn this episode, Jean Payne, a Navy vet and MST survivor, shares her journey of empowerment. As CEO of TI Verbatim Consulting, she advocates for systemic change, including VA House Bill 2520. Jean is also the author of Reclaim Your Worth and Jean and the Magnificent Mirror, promoting self-worth and justice. 

It is the “most wonderful time of the year,” and Behind the Lines is focusing on giving back. Section 6 of the Preamble to the Texas Rules of Disciplinary Conduct reminds us that “the provision of free legal services to those unable to pay reasonable fees is the moral obligation of each lawyer as well as the profession generally.” This episode focuses on some of the ways Houston lawyers have been taking that obligation seriously and giving back to people in the Houston area who need legal help. Segment One - Hon. David Hittner: "I Wouldn't Trade That One Trial"Hon. David Hittner, Senior U.S. District Court Judge, discusses a criminal pro bono case he had as a young lawyer, including how he went about preparing for a criminal case as a civil lawyer. He also addresses how this pro bono case played a role in his confirmation hearing when he was appointed to the federal bench. The file for the case, Texas vs. Lockett, was recently formally dedicated for public exhibition at the Historic Documents Room at the Harris County Courthouse. Segment Two - Maryam Ghaffar: "My Client Felt So Validated"Maryam Ghaffar, an associate at Beck Redden and the HYLA Pro Bono and Service Committee Chair, discusses a recent Hague Convention case in which she represented the mother of a two-year-old child whose father wanted the court to order that the child's habitual residence was in Ecuador, not the United States. Maryam was appointed to this pro bono case by the Court, and it was a very fast-paced case. Segment Three - Holiday Wellness Break: Finding the Joy(BTL Interviewer Rinku Ray)Melanie Bragg of Bragg Law PC, who is also the co-chair of HBA's Wellness Committee, author of "Defining Moments: Insights Into the Lawyer's Soul" and other books, and cheerful volunteer, leads listeners through a wellness exercise designed to help find joy and reduce stress during the holiday season. Segment Four - Amy Farish: "There's Always Support"Amy Farish, a partner at Yetter Coleman who is also the firm's pro bono coordinator, discusses a lengthy immigration case she and her team handled and  encourages lawyers to try out pro bono service even if it's in an area outside of one's usual wheelhouse. Segment Five - Andrew Lehmann (HVL): "The Legal Issue Was Actually Really Simple"(BTL Interviewer Rachael Thompson)Andrew Lehmann, who runs HVL's weekly Veterans clinics at Michael E. DeBakey VA Hospital, discusses the issues they typically see and how to volunteer, and he shares recent success stories from the clinic, including a tenant's rights case and Military Sexual Trauma claim. He notes that lawyers should not feel intimidated to volunteer at the clinic or even take a case because often the legal issues are simple and the Veterans just need someone to advocate for them using legal skills that almost every lawyer has. To volunteer, sign up at https://www.makejusticehappen.org/get-involved/legalline/. Music by LudoSoundX from Pixabay.For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities.Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Wednesday at 7 AM. Leah  discusses military sexual trauma (MST) and the resources available through the VA for veterans who have experienced it. She explains MST as encompassing any unwanted sexual activity during military service, including harassment, assault, or coercion, and notes its lasting impact on individuals. Leah highlights VA-provided support, including fact sheets, MST coordinators, and various therapies like cognitive processing therapy (CPT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). She emphasizes the importance of seeking help, acknowledging the challenges of addressing MST within a military culture that often stigmatizes vulnerability. The video also introduces a mobile app and community-based vet center counseling options, urging veterans to take advantage of these resources for their mental and physical well-being.

I'm proud to bring you this week's episode of SASS. Proud because I have the honor of introducing you to Shannon Hough, the CEO and co-founder of Shield of Sisters, and host of the companion podcast, Invisible No More: Lady Vetrans' Stories of Military Sexual Trauma. Shield of Sisters is a non-profit organization dedicated to “helping sister service members overcome military sexual trauma.” () There is a very strong and significant impact being made by Shield of Sisters: it is the only non-profit organization and website conceived by a female military veteran for female victims and survivors of military sexual trauma. Here's more from the Shield of Sisters online homepage: The mission of Shield of Sisters is to support and empower Lady Veterans who have experienced Military Sexual Trauma by providing a sisterhood focused on healing and restoration. We create safe spaces where these courageous women can share their stories, access vital resources, and transform from surviving to thriving. We strive to foster resilience, strength, and hope, ensuring that every woman can reclaim her voice and triumph over trauma. Shield of Sisters (SOS) will one day be the premiere nonprofit organization for Lady Veterans who endured Military Sexual Trauma during their service to the United States. We will lead the way by raising awareness of this pervasive issue, collaborating with like-minded organizations, and advocating for policy changes within the Department of Defense to eliminate sexual assault in the military. Our Restoration Retreats will occur all across the United States and its territories with the assistance of regional and local SOS chapters. Shield of Sisters believes that we are duty-bound to help our sister service members overcome the weight of Military Sexual Trauma. It's time to end sexual assault in our armed services. Founder and CEO, Shannon Hough, joins me on the show this week; what a pleasure it was to get to know Shannon and hear the passion in her voice about the organization she helped develop, as well as her excitement about the recently launched podcast, Invisible No More. There's a sad aspect to the Shield of Sisters and Invisible No More platforms, and that is that there is a need for them in the first place. It's a sad reality that rape and sexual assault exist in our society. And the fact that people who are in the military, whose oath is to serve and protect our country and the people who make up our country, and whose values are supposed to supersede the malevolent intent and acts of rape and sexual assault, are sometimes the perpetrators of these horrible acts, is shocking. Especially if you're one of the victims of these atrocious crimes. The reported prevalence rate is one-in-three victims in the military. But that's of the reported rapes and sexual assaults. The actual rate is most likely higher, as most people don't report their rape or sexual assault crimes to the authorities. Another powerful aspect of Shannon is her own story of experiencing rape while in the Navy 30 years ago. And it wasn't just one rape, it was multiple times, as she was in a coercive and manipulative relationship with a person who was not only of a higher rank than her, but was also a military police officer, and who was married to someone else. And there's another shocking aspect to this horrific story that you'll have to listen to the episode to hear about.  Thank you for being here to listen to Shannon's story. After you've heard this episode, please do all you can to share this episode with everyone you know. And also, to Start By Believing…because we all know someone whose life has been impacted by rape or sexual assault. Another big favor I would ask is that you rate and subscribe to this podcast. It all helps the podcast grow, which in turn helps bring justice to victims and survivors of rape and sexual assault. By the way, it would be immensely appreciated if you would take just a few seconds of your time to please find the sexualassaultsurvivorstories page on Instagram and hit the follow button!! Thank you for being part of my audience, and please become a regular listener and subscriber! A positive rating would also be greatly appreciated! Please check out all this very important sites and links:   #arcigrey #thrivivors #thejanbrobergfoundation #janbroberg #safeinharmsway #epizonstrategy #intentionallyfearless #thelastimsorry #feelingsmall #sasspodcast #traumainformed #sexualassaultsurvivorstories #traumainformedexpert #sexassaultvictim #survivorsunite #rapevictim #sexualassaultsurvivorstories #podcast #markelconsulting #jessicapridelawfirm #gettraumainformed #safeinharmsway #projectbeloved #saan #irishangel #crimevictimsassistancecenter #coloradoassociationofsexcrimeinvestigators #girlsfightback #outdoordefense #worthfightingfor #thejanbrobergshow #thrivivors #thejanbrobergfoundation #sassyselfdefenseguide #badassselfdefense #imworthfightingfor #vawa #ashforduniversity #amandacoleman #remembermolly #fightrapeculture #forcescience

One in fifty male veterans report having experienced military sexual trauma (MST), but not much research has been done around the best treatment to help these men heal. Dr. Jonathan Yahalom, a psychologist, explains how MST symptoms feed into the lack of research and what his own studies show on how to treat male survivors. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/theyd-rather-go-back-to-combat-men-facing-their-military-sexual-trauma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What if the key to healing trauma was a treatment that most dismiss or avoid?In this episode of "The Few With Boo, host Boo speaks with Matthew “Whiz” Buckley, a former U.S. Navy fighter pilot, about his experience in the military, the world of trading, his struggles with mental health, trauma, and addiction, and founding the No Fallen Heroes organisation to combat veteran suicide.Matthew shares the transformative potential of sacred plant medicines like psychedelics for treating PTSD and depression in Veterans and First Responders, while confronting the stigmas and barriers around these therapies, especially in highly regulated fields like aviation.This episode will make you rethink healing, the definition of success, and the boundaries of modern mental health treatments. Ready to shift your perspectives on trauma, addiction recovery, and the pursuit of a meaningful mission? Tune in now!Key Lessons:1. Embrace Transformative Experiences - Don't be afraid to let life-changing moments reshape who you are, even if it means rethinking beliefs you once held dear.2. Redefine Success - Stop measuring your worth by money or status alone. True satisfaction comes from doing work that improves people's lives in a meaningful way.3. Confront Stigmas - Have the guts to challenge unfair preconceptions, especially in careers with strict rules, that prevent people from getting help they could really benefit from.4. Heal Past Wounds - The No Fallen Heroes Foundation offers comprehensive healing solutions to at-risk groups like Vets and First Responders disproportionately affected by PTSD, depression and suicidal thoughts.5. Shift Cultural Narratives - Help shift society's mindset by spreading accurate info on the real-world advantages of alternative treatments, while calling out misinformation from opposing groups. Learn More:  Visit The Few With Boo website to find additional resources, related episodes, and more valuable content from Matthew Buckley. https://www.fewpodcast.comConnect with Matthew Buckley:  Website: http://www.topgunoptions.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ematthewbuckley/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/official_whizbuckley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TopGunOptions/Learn more about the No Fallen Heroes Foundation:Website: https://nofallenheroesfoundation.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nofallenheroes/Interested in learning more about alternative healing approaches for those impacted by trauma? Tune in to this powerful episode!Be sure to subscribe to The Few with Boo Podcast so you never miss insights from inspirational guests.P.S. Feeling inspired by our topics on healing and personal growth? We'd love to hear from you! A rating and review goes a long way in helping us share these meaningful discussions with a wider audience. 

She has worn multiple hats as it relates to the military and veteran communities. She's a military brat (dad served in the Army), she served in the U.S. Navy and is a married to a now retired Army serviceman). If that isn't enough of an understanding of the military life, Shannon Hough is also the mother of a service member. Having a daughter serving in the U.S. Marine Corps (Sempere Fi) Shannon Hough has experienced life tied to various branches of the military as well as different roles (daughter, wife, service member, veteran, and mother. Sounds to me like there's not much of a perspective she won't understand. Which is why you won't hear me say, "Shannon, you just don't get it," because...well, why would I? She would probably tell me, "Okay, Tiffany, you can go now." That's not why this episode has the title that it does. You'll have to hear explain this title. Shannon Hough has also served as a mayor - TWICE! Not two consecutive seats. Not in the say city or even same state. The first place she was a mayor was while she and her husband live in California. They've since moved to Wisconsin (Cheese Head!) where she also served as mayor in smalltown, USA. If that isn't enough political affiliation, Shannon has also served as a congressional staff member and as a city administrator. Shannon holds an MPA and MBA from Norwich University. It sounds to me like there isn't much Shannon can't do! But herstory doesn't end there. There's so much more to her story. Shannon endured a...tell you what...I don't want to tell her story her in the show notes. It's her story to tell, not me. While Shannon was serving as a congressional staffer, she encountered several service members who needed help dealing with their own trauma - similar to her own. As it is with many people who decided to create a nonprofit or helping organization, Shannon Hugh founded "Shield of Sisters" as a way to help her sisters in service - the numerous lady veterans that endured MST. Shannon's passion is helping others find restoration and supporting her sister service members. She is an avid reader, loves to cook and spend time with her family, including her dog Zeus.  __________________________________________________  "When I decided to create Shield of Sisters, I was broken. I had dealt with my trauma for over 30 years. Some would say that I had no issues, I have been fairly successful in my life. I was surviving; I wanted to thrive. I was tired of letting my past dictate my present and future. I contacted various people to see what we could do to change not only my path but the paths of my sisters. The restoration retreat created a new way of thinking for me. You may ask, how can 2.5 days change years of pain? It does! I went into the retreat a bit skeptical and came out 2.5 days later ready to share this breakthrough with my fellow sisters who have survived MST. You're not in this alone." – Shannon Hough ____________________________________________________ Shield of Sisters: Helping sister service members overcome Military Sexual Trauma (https://www.shieldofsisters.org/) LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-hough-mpa-mba-4513567a/) Shield of Sisters is a 501(c)(3) Non-profit Organization • EIN 88-4176126 • DUNS 118924053 You are not alone. We're here for you. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mettle-of-honor/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mettle-of-honor/support

In this episode I talk with the inspirational Kimberly Clark, a Navy veteran who used her biggest obstacles to find opportunities for empowerment and recovery. Kimberly talks about her horrific childhood and military sexual trauma experiences, her battles with addiction, and her road to recovery that made her an inspiration to those going through similar difficulties.Because of her dedication to her own recovery, Kimberly has learned about the therapeutic benefits of Brazilian jiu-jitsu and the job of a peer support specialist, where she uses her personal experiences to help other veterans get well. Her writing and speaking engagements as a motivational speaker and author highlight her message of resiliency and the potential to overcome adversity.Kimberly provides insights about the value of therapy—especially EMDR—as well as the ability of regularity and discipline to help people stay focused and move forward in their healing process throughout the entire episode. Her story is not just one of overcoming but also of using her past as a foundation to build a future where she continues to inspire and support others through her advocacy, speaking engagements, and written works.Her you tube link herehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWR9xjwqGR-DC_w_Vn7tZYgIf you would like to donate to the running of the podcast and leave an energetic exchange that would be completely wonderful.https://tinyurl.com/366hv625You can get my book here as a paperback or audio or e book, which is a raw and honest dialogue of how I went from completely using allopathic medicine to manage a diagnosis of epilepsy, to only using a small amount of medicine and managing the rest with lifestyle choices and other wonderful plant medicines and supplementshttps://lainiechait.com.au/shop-main/If you have a story that you think other people will benefit from and you would like to be on the podcast then contact me at electrogirl55@gmail.com orFind me on FBhttps://www.facebook.com/lainie.chaitA little side note:I am not a practitioner of health professional. These shows are meant to create food for thought for people going through similar situations. Planting seeds of information about things that perhaps you never knew could and might assist in treating and managing the symptoms associated with your diagnosis.Alternative treatments are out there to be used, alongside allopathic medicine, or instead of.That part is completely up to you, but gaining knowledge is the first part in empowering yourself back to health.In love, light and electricityLainie

This is a much needed conversation on military sexual assault. We talk about the main issues with MST, how it is handled, the aftermath, and how it leads to a vicious cycle of homelessness, incarceration, and re-victimization. These are tough topics but are necessary for change. Thank you Lakeydra for all you do in our community and beyond!Link to her Page: https://linktr.ee/_mskeysThank you for pressing play on this small veteran podcast. If you enjoyed leave a little love with a review. It would not only help me reach more veterans but also make my whole week!

Episode 99 iwith Chris Bowers…Director of Programs  withLeashes of Valor. Leashes of Valor is a non-profit in Fredericksburg, Virginia that trains service dogs for post-9/11 veterans. These highly trained dogs help veterans who have experienced PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, or Military Sexual Trauma.  Chris joined the show to share his story and give us the background about the organization. You can learn more about their staff, their mission, and how to donate leashesofvalor.org/.

IN THE NEWS American Legion National Commander: Task Force Movement: more than a job program THIS WEEK'S GUEST Newly crowned Ms. International World, Air Force veteran Terace Garnier has found the resilience to overcome obstacles including childhood rape, Military Sexual Trauma and homelessness. She found success as the first Pentagon correspondent for Newsy, an artist, a mentor and advocate for fellow veterans and now, an author with a new book “No Longer Silent” just released on Veterans Day. RAPID FIRE Soldiers Unpaid: National Guard Hasn't Paid Out Thousands of Enlistment Bonuses Seen UFOs as a government worker? The Pentagon wants to hear from you Watch Marines fire rocket from ‘creepy' robot goat available on Amazon Special Guest: Terace Garnier.

About one in three women in the military -- and one in 50 men -- experience sexual assault or harassment. We hear from Dr. Christine Calmes, a Veterans Administration doctor, about specialized treatment. Then Erica Carpenter and Dr. Paula Smith-Benson, two women vets who overcame the trauma, talk about their experience and how they use their strength to help survivors thrive. Links: MD Veterans Healthcare, Dr. Calmes, head of Military Sexual Trauma program can be reached at 410-637-1231, Veterans Crisis line / call 988 press option 1Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.org 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his sbdawes@wypr.org 410-235-1472

Powerful podcast today with Shannon Hough. Shannon is a proud Navy Veteran and Founder of Shield of Sisters nonprofit that helps Women veterans that were Raped/ and or Sexually assaulted while in service. 1 in 3 women that served have either been raped or assaulted. Shannon shared her service and story. This topic is very sensitive but the MIL/Vet community isn't really talking about it. We have to use our voices. 

To wrap up our special series, we talk with Lincoln County, S.D. Service Officer Susan Irons, and Bay Pines VA HealthCare system Military Sexual Trauma Coordinator Lisa Shoemaker to learn more about how those who have experienced Military Sexual Trauma can get help at VA. In this series, be aware we will be discussing topics that are sensitive and potentially triggering, so pause and take a break as needed, and remember you can always reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1. Special Guests: Lisa Shoemaker and Susan Irons.

In the penultimate episode in our special series on Military Sexual Trauma, our guests from the Department of Defense Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO) – Acting Director Dr. Nathan W. Galbreath and Senior Prevention Adviser Dr. Andra Tharp – discuss how DoD is addressing the issue of MST and highlight specific actions being taken to prevent and respond to sexual assaults. In this series, be aware we will be discussing topics that are sensitive and potentially triggering, so pause and take a break as needed, and remember you can always reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1. Special Guests: Dr. Andra Tharp and Dr. Nate Galbreath.

Navy veteran Lindsay Church, is founder and executive director of Minority Veterans of America and Army veteran Rebekka Eshler is president of Transgender American Veterans Association. The pair continues our special series with a discussion of the prevalence of Military Sexual Trauma in the LGBTQ+ community and how their organizations are addressing the issue. In this series, be aware we will be discussing topics that are sensitive and potentially triggering, so pause and take a break as needed, and remember you can always reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1. Special Guests: Lindsay Church and Rebekka Eshler.

Have you ever told yourself a story, or held a belief, that limited what you could do? In this episode, transformational coach Caroline Rena helps us explore the relationships between narratives and our own beings. Our conversation takes us on a journey through Jungian archetypes, generational differences, and the super power of being an empath. Introductions (0:00) Defining 'Empath' and 'Highly-Sensitive' (4:20) Narrative Therapy and Our Minds and Bodies (8:43) How Different Generations Deal with Feelings (18:35) The Hero's Journey, Archetypes, and Our Psyches (29:29) Personal Development and Our Relationships (37:15) Transformational Coaching (46:09) Caroline Rena is a Transformational Coach who helps people heal from trauma and uncover the truth of who they are. She is also a Writer, Poet, Singer/Songwriter and loves traveling. Her experiences in healing from Trauma/Complex PTSD, Military Sexual Trauma and Harassment, among other things, through the nervous system, has helped her to expand her ability to be a Master at Holding a Safe Space for others to heal. She uses what she has come to understand about how the body must be part of the healing process, not just the mind. Caroline also has the ability to meet people where they are, so they can make a positive impact on their lives by learning how to work with anxiety, depression, grief, or whatever may be coming up for them and keeping them stuck.Connect with Caroline at: carolinerena.com YouTube @carolinerena TikTok @carolinerena Linktree All Things Narrative cultivates personal development through storytelling. Become more purpose-driven by learning how to better understand and communicate your life story. Offerings include: The ‘Live A Meaningful Story' Coaching Program, workshops for organizations, storytelling classes, the All Things Narrative Podcast, 1-on-1 Narrative Coaching, speaking engagements, and facilitating storytelling events. Led by award-winning Narrative Practitioner Derrick Hatch, we will be your guide towards telling and living a meaningful story. Learn more at allthingsnarrative.com and schedule a FREE consultation to see how we can support you! Like us on Facebook @allthingsnarrative Follow us on Instagram @allthingsnarrative Read my Film Diary (including reviews and rankings) on Letterboxd @derrickhATN

Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Ross Whitmore served under "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" and faced many challenges as the first openly gay Air Force officer but still managed to build a successful career as a Medical Commander and a member of the Surgeon General's staff. Rashan Legard joined the Army in 2011 after graduating from college and was assigned to the 3rd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, Special Troops Battalion (STB) at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. Both men share their experiences, the retribution that followed and how they found healing, hope and the drive to help others. In this series, be aware we will be discussing topics that are sensitive and potentially triggering, so pause and take a break as needed, and remember you can always reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1. Special Guests: Rashan Legard and Ross Whitmore.

In this episode, two survivors discuss how they are transforming their personal experiences into a mission to create culture change and prevent and support individuals affected by Military Sexual Trauma. U.S. Navy Reserve Lt. Cmdr. Andrea Goldstein, a member of American Legion Post 84 in Hudson, N.Y., formerly served as the principal adviser to the Secretary of the Navy on integrated prevention efforts. In that capacity she led the Navy's sexual assault, sexual harassment, and suicide prevention and response efforts. Dr. Athena Ives, a Marine Corps sexual assault prevention specialist and forensic criminologist, did her doctoral dissertation on how military culture affects MST. These women share their inspiring journeys as well as the strategies, resources, and support systems they have developed to help survivors and prevent future incidents. In this series, be aware we will be discussing topics that are sensitive and potentially triggering, so pause and take a break as needed, and remember you can always reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1. Special Guests: Andrea N. Goldstein and Athena Ives, PhD.

In the first episode of our special series on Military Sexual Trauma, we welcome Tara Galovski, PhD, the Director of Women's Health Sciences at the National Center for PTSD and Amy Street, PhD, National Director of Military Sexual Trauma in the Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention. Both women have done extensive research on mental health, women's health, and Military Sexual Trauma. Our discussion gives an overview of the MST issue, examines how ongoing efforts to address the problem and highlights resources for those who need assistance. In this series, be aware we will be discussing topics that are sensitive and potentially triggering, so pause and take a break as needed, and remember you can always reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1. Special Guests: Amy Street, PhD and Tara Galovski, PhD.

Few things can derail your life, like sexual trauma. It can trigger an onslaught of physical and emotional symptoms, making functioning at work and in relationships difficult.  Tragically, it's all too prevalent in the military. Studies show that 33% of female veterans and nearly 2% of male veterans screened positive for military sexual trauma (MST). This means that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 50 men respond “yes” to experiencing MST when screened by their VA provider. Yet the military's power structure often discourages people from reporting MST and getting the help they need. They worry that their superiors may not believe them or that there will be retribution.  There is hope and help for survivors of MST. While the military still has a long way to go, they are working to make it easier for survivors to report sexual trauma. And regardless of whether the survivors reported the trauma directly after the event, the military is opening up more ways for survivors to qualify for the help they need.   If you are a survivor of military sexual trauma, it's time to stop suffering in silence. Out of fairness to yourself and those around you, it's time to claim the VA benefits you are legally entitled to for what you suffered and put yourself on the path to recovery. Let's dive in! Do You Need VA Claim Help? WE'RE THE EXPERTS! If you need some help with your VA disability claim, join VA Claims Insider Elite TODAY and get started on your VA disability claim for FREE: https://vaclaimsinsider.com/elite-membership/ ***Audio Timestamps*** ⏩ 00:00 VA Claims Insider Introduction  ⏩ 12:26 A Sensitive and Difficult Topic ⏩ 14:01 What is Military Sexual Trauma (MST)? ⏩ 15:14 Submitting a Fully Developed Claim ⏩ 15:50 Myth #1: MST Has to Be Reported to Be Verified ⏩ 17:08 Myth #2: MST Has to Be Filed as Its Own Claim ⏩ 17:58 Myth #3: MST Claims are Just as Easy to Win as PTSD Claims ⏩ 18:59 Myth #4: You Have to Have All of the Markers of MST ⏩ 19:30 MST Evidence and Markers ⏩ 28:23 MST Resources ⏩ 32:37 If You're Already Rated For a Mental Health Condition ⏩ 34:37 Education and Preparation ⏩ 37:28 Questions Answered by VA Claim Experts ⏩ 53:51 Need VA Disability Claim Help?

Sarah Blum has experienced first-hand the traumas of war, having served as a surgical nurse in the Vietnam War. She also has experienced another form of trauma faced by many veterans: military sexual trauma. Sarah wrote about MST in her book, Women Under Fire: Abuse in the Military, and continues to travel the nation advocating […]

Stephanie Gattas enlisted in the Navy at 18.  Her eight years of service left her with many new skills, but also the pain and guilt of MST.  She founded The Pink Berets, a non-profit organization, in 2015 to provide support through holistic programs for survivors.  She explains to host Jim Fausone how thousands of people have been helped by The Pink Berets.org and how to reach out and help.

Joining Cheri is Bob Horrell, Co-Founder/Executive Director of the Military Animal Project. The Military Animal Project provides military veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury, Military Sexual Trauma, Anxiety and Depression – comfort, support, companionship, and a means to heal provided at NO COST to the Veteran. They offer a unique opportunity to positively impact the lives of many of our Nation's Warriors. Northern Nevada Equine & Dog Training Facility located at 14035 Red Rock Road, Reno NV. MilitaryAnimalProject.com Sageintl.com 051523

Physician Assistant and prior C&P examiner Leah Bucholz discusses Female Sexual Arousal Disorder and VA Disability.Leah Bucholz discusses Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD), a common condition among female veterans that often leads them to seek VA service connections. She explains how FSAD can be associated with other service-connected disabilities like PTSD, depression, anxiety, and the side effects of medications like SSRIs. FSAD falls under the broader category of female sexual disorders, which also includes disorders related to sexual desire, aversion, orgasm, and pain. Treatment options vary, including counselling, specialized therapies, and sometimes medications like intranasal prolactin or low-dose testosterone, although the effectiveness and appropriateness of these treatments can vary. Leah emphasizes that women with FSAD, related to their military service, may be eligible for special monthly compensation under the category of loss of use of a reproductive organ, similar to erectile dysfunction in men. This compensation is usually around $110 monthly, in addition to any other service-connected benefits.If you would like more information on our services including Independent Medical Opinion Letters often referred to as nexus letters and records review, please check us out here: https://www.prestigeveteranmctx.com/#veterans #va #medical

Partner Chicago Regional Office Veteran Benefits Administration Panelists:Louis Jones is a US Air Force Veteran and Chicago Regional Office Rating Veteran Service Representative Holly G Dorsey, US Army Staff Combat Iraqi Veteran and Chicago Regional Office Veteran Service Coordinator.

Partner Veteran Legislative VoicePartner:Stephanie Kalota - US Army Reserve Sergeant First Class Veteran and Founder/Creator of Veteran Legislative Voice 

Partner Veteran Legislative Voice Partner:Stephanie Kalota  - US Army Reserve Sergeant First Class Veteran and Founder/Creator of Veteran Legislative Voice

"The only way to great work is to love what you do!" Today we speak with someone who truly does great work. Amy Tiemeyer is powerful, kind, humble, honest and selfless human being. She has decided to continue her service after her contract ended by working independently and by working with the Travis Manion Foundation Manion foundation. Today we will dive into her back story and explore her reasoning for volunteering and to discuss the effect we can have on others. Warning: As a survivor of Military Sexual Trauma she will be speaking on first hand experiences from her time in the Military good and bad and I as always encourage every listener to use discretion as some of this episode may not be suitable for children under the age of 18 and some of this may be triggering to listen to. I promise if you choose to listen through you will gain some new perspective. Head over to our Facebook Page and lets keep this conversation or you can reach out over instagram @thisiseddielowery TMF: https://www.travismanion.org/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/offthedeependwitheddie/support

This week's Urban Valor episode features Marine veteran Rebekah Dorko. Rebekah grew up poor in San Diego with four sisters and was homeless for a period. She talks about her mother having a mental breakdown, loading all 5 girls in a vehicle, and attempting to run people over at a gas station. Rebekah experienced physical and mental abuse from her biological parents and in the foster care system. She enlisted in the Marine Corps, thinking becoming a Marine would help her cope with the trauma she endured as a kid. However, Rebekah ended up experiencing severe Military Sexual Trauma and talks about being taken advantage of on several occasions during her enlistment.*Urban Valor acts as a conduit for veterans to share their stories and experiences in their own words without censorship. Please respect all veterans' views, opinions, or experiences, even if you disagree. ✅ Please "LIKE" this video to show support to Urban Valor and/or Rebekah✅ Please "COMMENT" any questions you have- we'll respond ASAP!✅ Please "SUBSCRIBE" to NEVER miss a video from Urban Valor!#veteran #military #urbanvalor #marinewomen

Kimberly Clark is a recovered addict and Navy veteran, choosing every day to be healed and operate in her purpose. Kimberly spent over 10 years in active addiction after a military sexual trauma and being diagnosed with severe PTSD. She was in and out of jail, rehabs and psychiatric units trying any and everything to get her life together. After almost losing her life, being on life support in 2020, on January 3, 2021 her life was saved. Now, she is a passionate Mindset Coach, Certified Peer Support Specialist, published author, motivational speaker, and state leader for a national veteran suicide awareness non-profit organization –www.mission22.com More information about Kimberly: YouTube: Motivation From the Heart - YouTube Website: https://kimberlycares.org/ Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/kimberlyclarkmotivates Book: Stuck Between Pleasure & Pleasing God – Amazon: Stuck Between Pleasure & Pleasing God: Clark, Kimberly Nicole: 9798218010737: Amazon.com: Books

Kimberly's lived experience exceeds most people's imagination. She has lived through and survived multiple traumas including rape, narcissistic abuse, emotional abuse, trauma,  MST, PTSD, Addiction and alcoholism. Not only did she survive it, she advocates for other women and veterans who are still suffering. Kimberly was in active addiction for over a decade including in and out of jail, rehabs and psychiatric units but now Is a Certified Peer Support Specialist for the Louisiana department of Behavioral health,  the Louisiana State Leader for a national non-profit organization that raises awareness to Veteran Suicide, a published author, Motivational Speaker and most importantly a mother. She loves to speak about EMDR therapy, which changed her life. Kimberly wants to reach as many people as possible with her message of hope. My book, Stuck Between Pleasure and Pleasing God, is available on Amazon. https://amzn.to/3NIkOZI To book me for speaking engagements you can go to www.kimberlyclarkwrites.com or email me at kimberlyclark7books@gmail.com Full Transcript below! Link Tree Website: https://dswministries.org Email: diana@dswministries.org Social media links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DSW-Ministries-230135337033879 Twitter: https://twitter.com/DswMinistries YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxgIpWVQCmjqog0PMK4khDw/playlists Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dswministries/ https://dswministries.orgsubscribe-to-podcast/ Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts, Pandora, Stitcher, Listen Notes Keep in touch with me! Email subscribe to get my handpicked list of the best resources for abuse survivors! https://thoughtful-composer-4268.ck.page #abuse #trauma Mentoring https://youtu.be/WWgkERpkIoY An easy way to help my ministry: https://dswministries.orgproduct/buy-me-a-cup-of-tea/ A donation link: https://dswministries.orgdonate/ Affiliate links: Can't travel to The Holy Land right now? The next best thing is Walking The Bible Lands! Get a free video sample of the Bible lands here! https://www.walkingthebiblelands.com/a/18410/hN8u6LQP Get one free month of Blubrry podcast hosting with the promotional code: FAITHFUL http://create.blubrry.com/resources/podcast-media-hosting/?code=FAITHFUL Get quality podcast guests and interviews from PodMatch! Get paid to be a host! Sign up below: https://podmatch.com/signup/faithful Visit my friends at the Heal Thrive Dream Boutique for some cool T-shirts, jewelry and other merch! Simply share the discount code we created just for you and receive a 10% discount on your order!  DIANA98825  https://www.htd-boutique.com/ Bible Study Notebook From Karen Robinson! Check it out!  https://www.htd-boutique.com/products/bible-planner-for-survivors-includes-prayer-requests-sermon-notes-bible-study-notes-and-other-note-pages-to-enrich-your-spiritual-life Kimberly Clark [00:00:00] Diana Winkler: Hello, thanks for stopping in to listen today. I am grateful for your support. I aim to be a positive place for you to come to hear some fantastic guests, hear some music, and get some tools to help you heal. It is a crazy world out there right now, and it's especially made worse by social media, don't you think? [00:00:31] I have been following the takeover of Twitter and I'm not sure what's gonna transpire in the next few months as far as content creators go, but just a reminder for you to sign up for my newsletter. To keep in touch with me. If something happens to Facebook or Twitter or Instagram or TikTok, I can still reach you. [00:00:59] [00:01:00] I read that the government may ban TikTok in the future, so that's an example. Anyway, you'll get the latest news in music and some free gifts. I'm recording a lot of music right now, so if you want free music downloads from me, you will get free download of your choice if you are on my newsletter.

Kimberly's lived experience exceeds most people's imagination. She has lived through and survived multiple traumas including rape, narcissistic abuse, emotional abuse, trauma,  MST, PTSD, Addiction and alcoholism. Not only did she survive it, she advocates for other women and veterans who are still suffering. Kimberly was in active addiction for over a decade including in and out of jail, rehabs and psychiatric units but now Is a Certified Peer Support Specialist for the Louisiana department of Behavioral health,  the Louisiana State Leader for a national non-profit organization that raises awareness to Veteran Suicide, a published author, Motivational Speaker and most importantly a mother. She loves to speak about EMDR therapy, which changed her life. Kimberly wants to reach as many people as possible with her message of hope. My book, Stuck Between Pleasure and Pleasing God, is available on Amazon. https://amzn.to/3NIkOZI To book me for speaking engagements you can go to www.kimberlyclarkwrites.com or email me at kimberlyclark7books@gmail.com Full Transcript below! Link Tree Website: https://dswministries.org Email: diana@dswministries.org Social media links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DSW-Ministries-230135337033879 Twitter: https://twitter.com/DswMinistries YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxgIpWVQCmjqog0PMK4khDw/playlists Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dswministries/ https://dswministries.org/subscribe-to-podcast/ Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts, Pandora, Stitcher, Listen Notes Keep in touch with me! Email subscribe to get my handpicked list of the best resources for abuse survivors! https://thoughtful-composer-4268.ck.page #abuse #trauma Mentoring https://youtu.be/WWgkERpkIoY An easy way to help my ministry: https://dswministries.org/product/buy-me-a-cup-of-tea/ A donation link: https://dswministries.org/donate/ Affiliate links: Can't travel to The Holy Land right now? The next best thing is Walking The Bible Lands! Get a free video sample of the Bible lands here! https://www.walkingthebiblelands.com/a/18410/hN8u6LQP Get one free month of Blubrry podcast hosting with the promotional code: FAITHFUL http://create.blubrry.com/resources/podcast-media-hosting/?code=FAITHFUL Get quality podcast guests and interviews from PodMatch! Get paid to be a host! Sign up below: https://podmatch.com/signup/faithful Visit my friends at the Heal Thrive Dream Boutique for some cool T-shirts, jewelry and other merch! Simply share the discount code we created just for you and receive a 10% discount on your order!  DIANA98825  https://www.htd-boutique.com/ Bible Study Notebook From Karen Robinson! Check it out!  https://www.htd-boutique.com/products/bible-planner-for-survivors-includes-prayer-requests-sermon-notes-bible-study-notes-and-other-note-pages-to-enrich-your-spiritual-life Kimberly Clark [00:00:00] Diana Winkler: Hello, thanks for stopping in to listen today. I am grateful for your support. I aim to be a positive place for you to come to hear some fantastic guests, hear some music, and get some tools to help you heal. It is a crazy world out there right now, and it's especially made worse by social media, don't you think? [00:00:31] I have been following the takeover of Twitter and I'm not sure what's gonna transpire in the next few months as far as content creators go, but just a reminder for you to sign up for my newsletter. To keep in touch with me. If something happens to Facebook or Twitter or Instagram or TikTok, I can still reach you. [00:00:59] [00:01:00] I read that the government may ban TikTok in the future, so that's an example. Anyway, you'll get the latest news in music and some free gifts. I'm recording a lot of music right now, so if you want free music downloads from me, you will get free download of your choice if you are on my newsletter.

About Today's GuestsKatie R. Ross, MSW, is the Director of Veterans Services at Summit BHC and creator of their specialized services for the military community, known as Tactical Recovery.  She worked in program management for the U.S. Navy for ten years before beginning in direct care as a clinical social worker at the Hampton VA Medical Center's Suicide Prevention, Intimate Partner Violence, and Military Sexual Trauma units.  She was also pivotal in establishing the country's first residential treatment center to exclusively serve military youth.  Katie is a multigenerational member of the military community, spouse of a recently retired 20-year veteran, former Ombudsman, Chair and creator of Nexus: Hampton Roads' collaborative for Military & Veteran service providers, and Chair of the VISN 6 Clay Hunt Act Community Outreach Team.  As a national advocate and concierge of treatment resources for the military and veteran community, she is driven to improve the lives of those who have served. Katie Civiletto Stenger is the Operations Director and Force Multiplier for Summit BHC's Tactical Recovery Program. She is a proud Army Spouse and lives in Southern Oregon with her husband, their son, 4 bonus kiddos, and two pups.  Katie has spent the past decade working in the veteran and military mental health space, focusing on mental health and substance abuse treatment, mental wellness, and emotional wellbeing. Katie forged her career in this space, she started working as a case manager and moved into program implementation and design. She now works with 20 Summit facilities to enhance Tactical Recovery's Program integrity. Katie is an alum of Cornell University's Sloan Program in Health Administration.Links Mentioned In This EpisodeSummit BHC Tactical Recovery ProgramPsychArmor Resource of the WeekThe PsychArmor Resource of the Week is the PsychArmor Veteran Ready Program Join the nearly 200 organizations nationwide that leverage the PsychArmor educational platform to ensure staff and volunteers are better prepared to interact with and support military and Veteran communities. PsychArmor certificate programs help improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase revenue for our partners.  PsychArmor currently offers four industry-specific curriculum tracks with the option to customize the curriculum to fit your unique needs. Industry-specific learning pathways include:·      Healthcare·      Higher education·      Nonprofit·      EmployersYou can find a link to the resource here: https://psycharmor.org/services This Episode Sponsored By: This episode is sponsored by PsychArmor, the premier education and learning ecosystem specializing in military culture content. PsychArmor offers an online e-learning laboratory with custom training options for organizations.Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media Email PsychArmorPsychArmor on TwitterPsychArmor on FacebookPsychArmor on YouTubePsychArmor on LinkedInPsychArmor on InstagramTheme MusicOur theme music Don't Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families.  You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com  

Military Sexual Trauma (MST) is sexual harassment or sexual assault experienced by a military service member during their service. MST can happen to anyone. 1 in 3 female veterans and 1 in 50 male veterans report having experienced MST during their time in service. However, the actual statistics are assumed to be much higher, as MST victims often don't report their trauma. MST can be devastating, even often disabling. It can also impact survivors long-term, causing lasting physical and mental health problems. MST survivors are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance abuse. If you've experienced MST, you deserve benefits and compensation. And if you're wondering how the VA verifies MST, or you're ready to get the VA rating you deserve, watch this video! Are you Stuck, Frustrated, and Underrated? If you need some help with your VA disability claim, join VA Claims Insider Elite TODAY and get started on your VA disability claim for FREE: https://vaclaimsinsider.com/elite-membership/ ***Audio Timestamps*** ⏩ 00:00 VA Claims Insider Introduction ⏩ 16:58 What is Military Sexual Trauma? ⏩ 17:41 The Process for MST Claims ⏩ 20:06 Facts and Myths ⏩ 25:06 What are Markers? ⏩ 31:39 Proof of Markers ⏩ 37:00 Resources ⏩ 40:14 Chat Q&A ⏩ 57:39 Contact Us ⏩ 58:53 Recap

This month, we are joined by Dr. Jessica Keith, Clinical Programs and Practices Lead for VA's Military Sexual Trauma Support Team; Dr. Ryan Holliday, Clinical Research Psychologist at the Rocky Mountain MIRECC for Suicide Prevention; and Mrs. Adelaide Kahn-Fowler, Director of Programs and Policy at Protect Our Defenders to learn about military sexual trauma, or MST. Our guests share with us what the research tells us how MST impacts survivors, how advocacy and seeking justice can support recovery, and what VA is doing to help. Veterans who are homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness are strongly encouraged to contact the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 4AID-VET (877-424-3838) for assistance.Find your nearest VA: https://www.va.gov/find-locations Learn more about VA resources to help homeless Veterans:https://www.va.gov/homeless Learn more about VA's MST Services:https://mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome/index.asp Find your local VA MST Coordinator:https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome/vha-mst-coordinators.asp Read VA and the Department of Defense's Clinical Practice Guidelines:https://www.healthquality.va.gov Download the Beyond MST App:https://mobile.va.gov/app/beyond-mst VA does not endorse Protect our Defenders and is not responsible for the content of the following linked websites:Protect Our Defenders:https://www.protectourdefenders.com Learn more about your rights:https://www.protectourdefenders.com/rights

I do not like CBT. Don't worry; I won't break into a salty Dr. Seuss-esque rhyme deriding cognitive behavioral therapy (although I could). But then Charles Small, LCSW, would kindly call me and my objections to CBT in rather than out. I know this because that's how he's handled my grumbling in the past. He's one of those rare souls who can debate without derision, urging folks (like me) to hit pause long enough to trust his professional experience, reconsider the reams of evidence, and assess their (my) personal resistance through a more transparent lens. And you know what? Sometimes* I get it wrong about CBT.   Alright! Let's get ready to rumble! But not really. Our conversation isn't a CBT vs. NARM cage match. In fact (and I would only say this to you because we're friends), there are points along the healing trajectory where these two modalities intersect. "Where our actual locus of control is, for the most part, is in our behaviors,” says Charles. This mindfulness component is just one example. Another is CBT's non-judgemental approach. "It's not that there's this moral right or wrong. Instead, if I'm gonna choose the sort of person I wanna be in the world, what do my behaviors have to look like?"  *I still hate CBT, though. GUEST BIO Charles Small, LCSW, is a social worker providing therapy for adults at Cognitive Behavioral Associates of Chicago. Prior to private group practice, Charles worked with veterans of the US Armed Services at the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center and the Road Home Program at Rush, where he provided evidence-based psychotherapy for the treatment of PTSD, Military Sexual Trauma, and Moral Injury. Charles is also a lecturer at Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice at the University of Chicago, offering courses on Social Work with Veterans and Evidence-based Therapies for treating PTSD. For full show notes, resources, and links to connect with our guest, visit: https://www.headhearttherapy.com/podcast *** Conversations with a Wounded Healer is a proud member of @mhnrnetwork. Let's be friends! You can find me in the following places... Website: www.headhearttherapy.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WoundedHealr/ https://www.facebook.com/HeadHeartTherapy/ Instagram: @headhearttherapy Twitter: @WoundedHealr @HeadHeart_Chi

Military sexual trauma is any unwanted sexual experience that happens during someone's military service. Dr. Amy Street talks to us about common reactions like self-blame, and reassures survivors that it is never your fault and you are not alone. Learn how the app “Beyond MST” can help with your recovery journey.

Stephanie Gattas is a United States Navy Veteran who served two overseas tours on the USS Simon Lake. Stephanie is both a Gulf War and Post 911 Veteran. After service, Stephanie followed her passion of giving back to the military community and its veterans and founded The Pink Berets in 2015. The Pink Berets is an organization that assists women of the U.S. Armed Forces who struggle with the invisible wounds of war such as PTSD and Military Sexual Trauma. https://thepinkberets.org/ Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Stephanie Gattas

Continuing the conversation of Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and what we can all do as a society to do better.Suzi talks with Janelle Marina Méndez, a Marine veteran and human rights CEO of the Military Sexual Trauma Movement, founder of MSTM a Facebook support group for survivors of MST created in 2018 and human rights leader. Suzi and Janelle discusses her time in the military, history of military sexual trauma, movements in helping survivors as well as, deciding to undergo Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB)  treatments. Jánelle has been able to draw from her experience with MST and the issues she experienced to create awareness across the American public. Her ambitions are to enact MIRA (military industry regulatory authority) as well as urge the DoD and the VA to acknowledge and treat PTSD as a neurological disorder so that service members and veterans can access Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB)  treatments at the onset of traumatic experiences. Want to know more about Janelle follow her on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/janelle-marina-mendez-972574130/ Learn more about Stellate Ganglion Block Treatmentshttps://stellacenter.com/Suzi's challenge: Have the courage to talk about what happened and how it affected you! You deserve to heal and be the person you want to be and create the life you want to live.Contact Suzi at suzigma@gmail.com if you want to be a guest on Be Crazy Well Podcast. She wants the people, as they say, with boots on the ground, in the field. For people who are doing the hard work at home in families and in relationships, bring in your wisdom, bring in your struggles.Music credit to Kalvin Love for the podcast's theme song “Bee Your Best Self”Follow us on IG @cominghomwell_bts and @behindtheservicepodcastFacebook at Coming Home Well or Behind The ServiceLinkedIn at Coming Home Wellcominghomewell@gmail.comvetsandplayers.orgwildhorserescue.org

Marine Corps combat veteran Aetha Ives speaks openly about her childhood trauma, joining the Marine Corps, Military Sexual Trauma, combat deployments, how she worked passed her trauma and is now helping others. 

Rebuilding a foundation of trust can be one of the hardest journey's for anyone to tackle. Today, Suzi talks with two incredibly strong and courageous women who created a safe place of healing and trust so they could live and thrive in a life they knew they truly deserved. Suzi is joined by Luz Helena Thompson, a Marine Corps veteran and Trina McDonald, a Navy veteran, both founders of the Veteran Recovery Project, as they discuss Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and creating a peer to peer safe zone for women struggling with MST.Veteranrecoveryproject.orghttp://www.veteransrecoveryproject.org/aboutVeteransrecoveryprojectorg@gmail.comBioTrina McDonald lives in Puyallup, WA and served in the Navy from 1988-1990. She was one of the subjects of the award-winning documentary The Invisible War, which focused on the crisis of sexual assault in the military. Trina worked as a Chemical Dependency Counselor in high risk communities including the justice system before her PTSD prevented her from continuing her career in Behavioral Science. In 2018 she took on the roll as Senior Outreach Associate with Minority Veterans of America based out of Seattle. MVA outreach will be addressing the underserved veteran population to include LGBTQ, women, people of color and homeless. Trina is also a co-founder of Veterans Recovery Project which aides Veterans improve their mental-health through self-care groups, peer support and recreational therapy.She is also working on a biography and advocates for Suicide Prevention and Reduction of Sexual Violence in the Veteran population. BioLuz Helena (Stacey) Thompson is a seasoned veteran advocate who holds an impressive record for bridging military and civilian divides to promote awareness of the needs of military sexual trauma survivors. Luz Helena served in the Marines from 1998-2000. In 2016, Luz was featured in “Veterans Coming Home”, a documentary of short films which depict the struggles disabled veterans face after coming home and reintegrating back into society. As a result of reporting rape while on active duty in the Marines and her continued efforts to seek justice by insisting her attacker be prosecuted, Luz was retaliated against and separated from the military with an Other Than Honorable (OTH) discharge. Although once stripped of her access to mental healthcare and veteran benefits, Luz found the strength to share her story of survival publicly alongside Senator Barbara Boxer and became a national advocate for survivors of Military Sexual Trauma.  In 2014, Luz was invited by Senator Kirsten Gillibrand to speak in Washington, DC regarding the need for reform of the Military Justice system and the way it handles cases of sexual violence. After years of litigation, Luz received a discharge upgrade from the Department of Defense. Luz holds a Master's of Science Degree from the California University of Pennsylvania. In 2017, Luz was one of ten women Veteran artists selected to showcase their work at the VA Medical Centers around the country in an exhibit titled “Women Veterans Art Exhibit”. Luz is an Art Commissioner for the City of Oceanside and a co-founder of Veterans Recovery Project.Contact Suzi at suzigma@gmail.com if you want to be a guest on Be Crazy Well Podcast. She wants the people, as they say, with boots on the ground, in the field. For people who are doing the hard work at home in families and in relationships, bring in your wisdom, bring in your struggles.Music credit to Kalvin Love for the podcast's theme song “Bee Your Best Self”

In this episode of the Psychedelic Medicine Podcast, Wyly Gray and Dr. Andrea Lucie join to discuss the issue of healing military sexual trauma (MST) through ayahuasca. Wyly Gray is a former Marine and founding executive director of Veterans of War, a nonprofit which connects teams of veterans to psychedelic-assisted guided group therapy designed to heal the scars of war in community. Dr. Andrea Lucie is a native of Chile and a third generation healer who has been traditionally and non-traditionally trained in ancient healing practices in the United States and Mexico. She also holds a PhD in mind-body medicine. This conversation begins by discussing the tragic phenomenon of military sexual trauma and the current treatment modalities available for veteran survivors. Wyly explains that the current treatments, which primarily take a talk therapy approach, often fall short of what survivors need as they focus on treating the symptoms as they arise rather than being able to address these conditions at their root causes. Dr. Lucie explains the science behind ayahuasca as a treatment for trauma, highlighting the profound neurological and psychological impacts of this psychedelic medicine.  Seeing the particular need for better treatment options among the veteran population, and the potential for ayahuasca to have such a profound positive impact, Wyly founded Veterans of War with the hope of better addressing this need. He shares the details of the six-month fellowship program, which involves a small cohort of veterans who do significant preparatory work together prior to a communal ayahuasca ceremony, followed by many integration sessions after the ceremony. Dr. Lucie explains different forms of mind-body work that may be effective supports before and after ceremony, citing things such as Tai Chi, meditation, and even close relationships with animals.  Towards the end of this conversation, Wyly shares some profound stories of transformation he has witnessed first-hand through his work with Veterans of War. He has seen veterans who've struggled profoundly with panic attacks become incredibly joyful people, and others who were on the brink of suicide begin to heal and form deep and meaningful relationships. In closing, Wyly discusses plans to establish a healing center in Oregon for Veterans of War to further increase access to these opportunities without the need for international travel.   In this episode: The problems of the civilian service-member divide, and how ayahuasca can help break down these barriers The importance of supportive community in the context of ayahuasca therapy for veterans with MST Mind-body practices that can support veterans working through MST before and after an ayahuasca ceremony How trauma changes the brain and the neurological effects of psychedelics that can help reverse these changes Why tackling issues of sexual assault within the military can be so difficult    Quotes: “I think that Ayahuasca is unparalleled in its ability to create a safe and effective path towards recovery, but I deeply believe it also needs bookends on either side, or a structure to get the most out of it.” [8:19] “Sometimes we just don't want to talk. We just want to feel and when we feel and we identify where in the body the trauma is stuck—because the trauma gets stuck in the body—then we know how to release it with movement.” [27:16] “Our response to trauma has seemed to be very one-dimensional. This is an effort to shift that, to start looking at people as whole units and at the same time, start speaking to the needs of that whole unit. If you are able to heal the trigger point of that trauma, you don't have to heal its expression.” [31:18]   Links: Veterans of War website Veterans of War on Instagram Veterans of War on Twitter Psychedelic Medicine Association Porangui

Challenges for Military Sexual Trauma Coordinators and Culture of Safety Considerations The VA OIG conducted a review of select activities and challenges of Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Coordinators and Veterans Integrated Service Network Points of Contact in response to a request from Congressman Chris Pappas, Chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs' Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, and Congresswoman Julia Brownley, Chairwoman of the Women Veterans Task Force. The OIG also reviewed the culture of safety for patients requesting MST-related care. Sexual trauma experienced while serving in the military affects both women and men with potentially serious and long-term consequences. Psychological trauma, such as MST, also increases risk of physical health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes. The Veterans Health Administration requires that each facility has a designated MST Coordinator with at least 20 percent of their time dedicated to protected administrative time. The OIG conducted a national survey and interviews to evaluate MST Coordinators duties and perceived challenges. Approximately 80 percent of the respondents reported having been assigned at least 20 percent or more of protected time. Thirty-nine percent reported inadequate resources to fulfill MST Coordinator administrative responsibilities. Based on analysis of survey results and interview information, the OIG found that insufficient protected administrative time, role demands, insufficient support staff, and inadequate funding and outreach materials challenged MST Coordinators' ability to fulfill role responsibilities. Additionally, the OIG found that MST Coordinators who reported more dedicated time than other MST Coordinators did not necessarily serve at facilities with higher numbers of patients in MST related care.The OIG made one recommendation to the Under Secretary for Health to evaluate the sufficiency of current guidance and operational status regarding protected administrative time, administrative staff support, and funding for outreach, education, and special project resources, with consideration of MST Coordinators' responsibilities, and take action as warranted.

America's Heroes Group Roundtable with Partner Jesse Brown VA Works Panelist:Dr. Ellen Koucky - A Clinical Psychologist in the PTSD Clinic and serves as the Military Sexual Trauma Coordinator at JBVA 

America's Heroes Group Roundtable with Partner Chicago Regional Office Veteran Benefits Administration Panelists:Debra Montgomery - VBA Chicago Regional Office Supervisor of the Public Contact Team Holly Dorsey - US Army Staff Sergeant Combat Veteran and VBA Chicago Regional Office Veteran Service Representative MST Coordinator 

Anne Robinson and Tammy Jones from the Paralyzed Veterans of America speak to Military Sexual Trauma, as well as their own stories in the service. Additionally, they discuss the Anita Bloom Women Veterans Committee as the first women's initiative in the Veteran Service Organizations in the country, while encouraging women to register for VA services.

Emil Caron and David Galloway discuss the impact of military sexual trauma and ways to support male Veterans seeking and in recovery with host Steven Samra. Visit c4innovates.com, subscribe to receive newsletter and training updates, and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube for more resources to grow your impact. Learn More Military Sexual Trauma from the US Department of Veterans Affairs VA Homeless Programs from the US Department of Veterans Affairs How to apply for a discharge upgrade from the US Department of Veterans Affairs State Departments of Veterans Affairs office locations from the US Department of Veterans Affairs Veteran Service Officers from the National Veterans Foundation The Veterans Consortium Discharge Upgrade Program Access a transcript of Impact of Military Sexual Trauma on Male Veterans