Ecotherapy as a Therapeutic Modality Option for Persons with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Since 2001, more than 2 million U.S. veterans have served in Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF- Afghanistan) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF- Iraq) (Sayer, 2011). While not all returning veterans from OIF and OEF have a mental health diagnosis, most experience some kind of adjustment issues as they reintegrate into civilian and family life because thoughts and behaviors needed to survive in war are not necessarily helpful in a civilian life-style.
In this study, In this study, we researched the eco-therapeutic program, Heroes on the Water (HOW), founded in 2007 to help veterans from all military branches to decompress, relax, and recover. This process aids veterans in recovering from the negative effects of war by using eco-therapeutic modalities of fishing, kayaking, and verbalizing their story to other veterans and para-professionals. This program provides an alternative kayaking therapy option for individuals diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and/or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).

Learning Outcomes - Provide three measurable learning objectives for the session that relate to the NCTRC Job Anaylsis.

By the end of the session the CTRS will be able to

identify four areas that are typically following exposure to a traumatic event.
be aware of the HOW (Heroes on the Water) programs/chapters and similar programs as a resource for patients suffering from PTS.
have a better understanding of the TR benefits of eco-based therapy programs on veterans and other patients suffering from PTS.

Detailed Session Outline - Include time spent on each portion of the outline. An example is given in the help text.

Introduction of Presenters (10 minutes)
Statement of the problem (15 minutes)
Video & photos of the HOW Program (10 minutes)
Methods/Results/Conclusion (40 minutes)
Discussion and wrap-up & questions (15 minutes)

2016 Mid-Year Conference

February 7–9, 2016

San Antonio, Texas