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The Veteran’s Venting Club is a specialized therapy group based in the Pensacola area, designed exclusively for Special Operations combat veterans who are navigating the challenges of PTSD. This group focuses on providing a supportive environment where members can connect through shared experiences of combat. By offering a space for open dialogue, mutual understanding, and camaraderie, Veterans Venting Club helps veterans process their trauma, build resilience, and find strength in their collective stories. Through peer-driven support led by combat veterans, the group fosters a unique sense of belonging and trust, essential for the healing journey of those who have served in the most demanding military roles. The group will focus on military members ages 18 to 55, as this is the typical age demographic of individuals who serve within our ranks.

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Department of the Air Force. (2020). DAFI 90-6001: Sexual assault prevention and response (SAPR) program. https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/af_a1/publication/dafi90-6001/dafi90-6001.pdf

American School Counselor Association. (2014). ASCA mindsets & behaviors for student success: K-12 college- and career-readiness standards for every student. American School Counselor Association. https://www.schoolcounselor.org

Yalom, I. D., & Leszcz, M. (2005). The theory and practice of group psychotherapy (6th ed.) Ch.9, pg 342.

Corey, G., Corey, M. S., & Corey, C. (2018). Groups: Process and practice (10th ed.). Cengage Learning.

Bonebright, D. A. (2010). 40 years of storming: A historical review of Tuckman’s model of small group development. Human Resource Development International, 13(1), 111-120. https://doi.org/10.1080/13678861003589099

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Group Action Plan: PDF

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Participants in the Veterans Venting Club (VVC) over the course of their time should gain critical information and create an understanding to help them better learn strategies to mange there behavior which align with therapeutic goals such as emotional regulation, self-awareness, and resilience building. The main mindsets I believe they will learn during this process is:

ASCA Mindsets:

1. Belief in the development of the whole self, including a healthy balance of mental, social/emotional, and physical well-being:

2. Self-confidence in the ability to succeed.

3. Positive attitude toward work and learning.

As participants progress in therapy, they develop a more optimistic view of their ability to manage PTSD, enhancing their engagement in recovery and applying new coping techniques in daily life.

ASCA Behaviors:

Learning Strategies:

1. Demonstrate critical-thinking skills to make informed decisions.

Individuals in the VVC can improve their ability to think critically about their thoughts, triggers, and responses, leading to better decision-making around how to manage PTSD symptoms.

2. Identify long- and short-term academic, career, and social/emotional goals.

Self-Management Skills:

1. Effective Coping Skills

Group members will learn to apply healthier coping mechanisms for stress, anxiety, and trauma-related symptoms, such as grounding techniques or cognitive reframing.

2. Demonstrate self-discipline and self-control.

Therapy helps participants strengthen their ability to manage emotional reactions, particularly when faced with triggers, improving their overall emotional regulation. This can be very important specifically for veterans with combat trauma.

Social Skills:

1. Create positive and supportive relationships with other students.

Being a member of the VVC will allow individuals in a group setting, to develop skills for building trust, and fostering supportive relationships with fellow veterans who have experienced similar trauma.

2. Demonstrate advocacy skills and ability to assert self, when necessary.

The VVC helps individuals build confidence in advocating for their needs, both in therapy and in their broader social or work environments.

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To effectively publicize the VVC I will utilize multiple communication channels, including social media, military base resources, and local outreach.

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Publicity: Social Media, Fliers, Word of Mouth

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Publicity: Social Media, Fliers, Word of Mouth

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1. Social Media Outreach

Strategy:

Target Audience: Veterans within the Special Forces community, military families, and military-affiliated groups in the Panhandle of Florida.

Content Plan:

Weekly Posts: Share content about the group’s mission, dates, times, and location of the meeting, as well as the importance of mental health and success stories.

Hashtags: Use relevant hashtags like #VVC #Veteransventingclub #SpecialForcesSupport, #VeteranMentalHealth, #PTSDRecovery, and #PensacolaVeterans to increase visibility.

Collaborate with Local Veteran Groups: Partner with veteran organizations on Facebook and Instagram such as local VFW or American Legion posts in and around the Pensacola, and Navarre area and ask them to share or promote the group.

Boosted Ads: Invest in targeted Facebook and Instagram ads aimed at people in the Pensacola area, particularly those with military affiliations or interests, focusing on individuals in the 18-50 age range who have connections to military service.

2. Hurlburt Field Air Base’s Official Website and Resources

Strategy:

Request a Feature: Contact Hurlburt Field’s Public Affairs Office and request a feature about the therapy group on the base’s official website. This can include a short article highlighting the importance of the group for Special Forces veterans and include relevant details like the time, location, and contact info.

Event Calendar: Ensure the group therapy meetings are listed on the base’s official event calendar, so veterans and their families can easily access the information.

Base Newsletter: Submit information to be included in the Hurlburt Field newsletter or any bulletins distributed to active service members, veterans, and their families.

3. Fliers at Base Medical Group and Education Centers

Strategy:

Design and post Fliers: Create visually appealing fliers emphasizing the group’s focus on Special Forces veterans and mental health. Include key information: meeting times, contact info, website, and a QR code linking to the group’s social media or sign-up form.

Placement of Fliers:

Medical Group: Work with the base medical group to distribute fliers in waiting areas, mental health offices, and near check-in stations. Speak with Hurlburt Field counselors or therapists on base to inform them about the group and encourage them to refer veterans.

Education Center: Post fliers in common areas, near military education advisors’ offices, and other high-traffic zones in the education center, targeting veterans pursuing education or career transitions.

4. Community Events and Outreach

Strategy:

Attend Veteran-Focused Events: Attend or sponsor local veteran-focused events in the Pensacola area (such as veteran job fairs, mental health workshops, or community outreach programs) to raise awareness and distribute information about the group.

Partnerships with Local Businesses: The local community is incredibly supportive of their veterans. I will collaborate with veteran-friendly businesses (gyms, coffee shops, etc.) to post fliers or include the group in their newsletters or promotional materials.

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Pre-Screening Plan for the VVC

The pre-screening plan will utilize screening interviews the same way that I do when assessing new members into the Special Forces community, and I will integrate Smead’s TAP-IN Process to ensure the right participants are selected for the Veterans Venting Club. The goal is to assess each participant’s readiness and suitability for group therapy, ensure emotional safety, and identify participants' needs to tailor the group process accordingly.

Key Steps in Pre-Screening Interview:

1. Introduction and Rapport-Building:

Begin by explaining the purpose of the Veterans Venting Club, the structure of the group, confidentiality policies, and the importance of mutual respect within the group.

Build trust by allowing the veteran to share their background in an open, non-judgmental manner.

2. Assessing Participant’s Readiness:

Ask questions to assess the participant’s motivation for joining the group, their understanding of the group format, and their readiness to participate in discussions about their traumatic experiences.

3. Evaluating Emotional Stability and Coping Skills:

Determine if the individual is emotionally stable enough to participate in a group setting by discussing their current emotional state, PTSD symptoms, and coping mechanisms.

4. Assessing Group Fit:

Ask questions to assess the individual’s ability to participate in a group setting, considering factors like social support, communication style, and previous group therapy experience.

5. Confidentiality and Group Rules:

Ensure the participant understands the importance of confidentiality and the group’s rules. Gauge their willingness to commit to these.

2. Post-Screening Analysis and Decisions:

After conducting the pre-screening interviews, I will take the following steps:

Review Assessment Data: Review the participant's responses to assess their readiness and fit for the group.

Decision: Based on the assessment, the participant will either be accepted into the group or referred to individual therapy if their needs are not suited for group therapy at this time.

Follow-Up: If the participant is accepted, they will receive an email with details on the group structure, session dates, and rules. If not, they will be offered individual therapy options or other resources to meet their current needs. Throughout the therapy sessions, periodic check-ins will be conducted to ensure participants are comfortable, emotionally stable, and receiving the support they need.

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Because we will not be dealing with any minors, nor will any formal diagnosis or medication be provided during these group sessions informed consent will not be required. With that, we will continually ensure that everyone in the group maintains confidentiality and anyone who betrays that trust will be asked to leave the group.

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Participant Guidelines will be discussed with all new members. They will sign a statement stating that will adhere to the rules or they will risk being kicked out of the group if violated. By having the members sign this document they are acknowledging that there are guidelines that must be adhered to and it immediately sets the tone for how the group should be conducted. The individual rules agreed upon at the beginning will include:

1. Punctuality

Arrive on Time: Group sessions start and end promptly. Arriving late disrupts the flow of conversation and shows a lack of respect for others’ time.

2. Commitment

Attend All Sessions: Consistency is key to the success of group therapy. If you commit to this group, it is essential that you attend all scheduled meetings unless an emergency arises.

3. Respect Confidentiality

What happen’s in Vegas stays in Vegas : To build trust, individuals of the VVC must maintain confidentiality. Anything shared in the group should not be discussed outside of it.

4. Be Respectful

Treat Others with Respect: Every member of this group has valuable experiences and emotions. Be mindful of how you interact with others. GOLDEN RULE!

5. Avoid Aggressive Behavior

No Aggression: This group is a safe space for healing. Aggressive or confrontational behavior toward others is not allowed.

Rules for the Group to Discuss:

1. Share the Time

Do Not Monopolize the Conversation: Everyone deserves an equal opportunity to speak. Be mindful of how much time you take when sharing.

2. Listen Actively

Do Not Interrupt: Let others speak without interrupting or talking over them. Active listening shows respect and helps foster a supportive environment.

3. Maintain a Positive and Supportive Atmosphere

Offer Support, Not Judgment: We are here to support each other. Refrain from making judgmental or harmful comments.

4. Practice Non-Violent Communication

Express Yourself Constructively: When discussing difficult topics or emotions, focus on expressing your thoughts and feelings in a way that is respectful.

Participation is Voluntary but Encouraged

Share at Your Own Pace. Participation is encouraged, no one will be forced to speak if they are uncomfortable. Share when you feel ready, and respect others' comfort levels as well.

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Group Dynamics:

Stage 1:

Building Relationships and Trust: To build relationships and trust between group members and myself, I will focus on creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where each person feels valued and heard. During the first session, I will engage in icebreaker activities that allow members to share non-threatening personal experiences, easing them into the group dynamic. We will also spend time discussing common goals, emphasizing the shared experiences that bring members together.

Establishing Group Norms: Group norms will be established together through interaction. At the beginning of the first session, we will introduce the group rules and guidelines as noted above and the expectations for the group, e.g., respect, confidentiality, and no interruptions. Then, we can discuss additional norms that they feel are essential as a group. This allows everyone to take ownership of the group culture and increases adherence to the rules. (Bonebright, 2010)

Addressing Confidentiality: I will address confidentiality early and often by clearly stating its importance and limitations. While privacy is expected, I will emphasize that it cannot be guaranteed in the VVC. I will explain that while everyone is responsible for keeping what is said within the group, I cannot control what individuals may share outside of the group. Anyone caught not respecting confidentiality will be asked to leave the group.

Stage 2:

Keeping Members Cohesive and Productive: To keep the group working cohesively and productively, each session will have a clear agenda and objectives tied to the learning outcomes, which helps keep the group focused. We can also do group check-ins at the beginning of each session, allowing members to express their current feelings and any challenges they face. This is a great temperature gauge to see how good or lousy somebody’s mood might be at the beginning of the session.

Checking Progress: As I discussed in my action plan, progress will be monitored continuously throughout the group process using brief, informal surveys. Randomly, I will have members complete a self-assessment based on our aforementioned learning. Regular check-ins will ensure that any participant who feels like they aren’t getting better or even overwhelmed can receive extra support, whether from me as the facilitator or from the group.

Stage 3:

Closure Process: As we approach the final few sessions, I will begin preparing the group for closure by acknowledging the group’s progress and success. During this stage, I will lead discussions on how members feel about the group ending and what they have gained from their experience. I will facilitate group discussions on next steps, including how members can continue using the skills they’ve learned in their daily lives. Another survey will also be conducted similar to the one they would have taken at the beginning of the group to note the amount of progress.

Data Analysis and Reporting: Post-group assessments will allow me to evaluate the overall success of the group in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving coping mechanisms. I will analyze the data for trends and identify areas where members reported the most progress or where they may need additional support.

By following this structured approach, the Veterans Venting Club will foster a safe, productive environment where group members can share, grow, and continue their healing journey with confidence and get back to serving the country they love with confidence.

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Leadership for the VVC: I would lean very hard into the Democratic leadership style for this group. Using a democratic leadership style in running the Veterans Venting Club is highly effective in group therapy, particularly for Special Forces veterans with PTSD. In democratic leadership, participants are encouraged to take an active role in decision-making and group direction, that will give them a sense of empowerment, ownership, and mutual respect for eachother. (Corey, 2018)

I feel this is clearly the best approach as Veterans, particularly from Special Forces, tend to value trust, camaraderie, and mutual respect. A democratic approach allows members to share responsibility for the success of the group, thereby reinforcing trust among participants. This approach respects their experiences and skills, making them feel that their contributions matter. By giving participants a voice in the direction of the group, the facilitator fosters a sense of ownership and accountability, which can greatly improve the outcomes and the goals for the group.

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Yalom’s therapeutic factors of universality, group cohesiveness, and imparting information will play a key role in the Veterans Venting Club. Universality helps veterans realize they aren’t alone in their struggles, reducing isolation by sharing similar experiences. Group cohesiveness will naturally develop as veterans build trust and support each other, fostering a sense of belonging that mirrors their military camaraderie. Imparting information is critical, as members will learn how PTSD affects them mentally and physically, gaining practical tools for managing symptoms. These factors create a supportive, informed, and trusting environment crucial for healing.

Universality refers to the therapeutic factor where individuals realize they are not alone in their struggles. (Yalom, 2020) Veterans, especially those from Special Forces, often experience a sense of isolation due to their unique combat experiences and the emotional and psychological impacts of PTSD. In the Veterans Venting Club, universality will occur when members share their personal experiences with PTSD, realizing that others in the room have gone through similar trauma.

Group cohesiveness is another crucial factor that will naturally emerge as the Veterans Venting Club progresses. Cohesiveness is the sense of belonging and acceptance within the group, which is vital for healing in a therapeutic setting. Special Forces veterans, due to the highly cohesive nature of their military units, often find it challenging to integrate into civilian life, where they may no longer feel that sense of brotherhood. In the Veterans Venting Club, as members continue to share, support one another, and recognize shared experiences, this cohesion will build.

Imparting information refers to the educational aspect of group therapy, where members gain knowledge that can help them in their recovery. In the Veterans Venting Club, imparting information will be crucial in helping participants understand how PTSD affects the body, both mentally and physically. PTSD is not just a psychological disorder; it has physical effects on the brain and body, such as heightened stress responses, sleep disturbances, and hypervigilance. It is essential for group members to understand that their reactions, such as irritability or hyperarousal, are part of the body's natural response to trauma.

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Legal Requirements:

As a military member facilitating the Veterans Venting Club, we have legal obligations regarding mandatory reporting, mainly when dealing with participants who may pose a risk of harm to themselves or others.

Mandatory Reporter Requirement:

In the military, all service members are considered mandatory reporters. This means that if during one of our groups, we become aware someone in the group is expressing intent to harm themselves or others, or any other concerning behavior, we are legally required to report it to the appropriate authorities. These authorities can include Commanding Officers and Military Law Enforcement. In cases with an immediate risk of harm, threats of violence, or if illegal behavior is disclosed we would call the Law Enforcement Desk.

Harm to Self or Others:

Suicide Risk: If a participant expresses suicidal thoughts, plans, or intent, we would have to report this to the medical group and law enforcement immediately.

Threat to Others: If a participant discusses plans to harm someone else, we are required to report this to ensure both the safety of the target and to prevent any potential criminal act. Military law enforcement or the chain of command may need to be involved in these situations.

Confidentiality and Limits:

As we have discussed, confidentiality is encouraged within the group. It is essential to explain from the beginning that confidentiality has limits when it comes to threats of harm. Group members will be made aware that if they reveal intentions to harm themselves or others, we are all are required to break confidentiality for their safety or the safety of others.

Understanding our roles as a mandatory reporter is required per DAFI 90-600. (DAF, 2024) It ensures that we, as military members, comply with legal requirements and uphold the safety and well-being of our group members.