- DTCare in Ukraine | Mental Health -
Hero’s Compass: Adventure-Based Counseling for Veterans in the Carpathians
Building Resilience and Recovery for Heroes Who Served
Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine has led to a humanitarian crisis. Mental health disorders are prevalent among Ukrainians, with high suicide rates, especially among service members. The conflict has exacerbated the existing mental health crisis, worsened by a lack of adequate mental health resources. In response, DTCare implemented an 8-day comprehensive adventure-based counseling program followed by ten weeks of continued online support with the help of U.S. mental health professionals and Ukrainian experts. DTCare provides a unique and practical approach to address the mental health needs of veterans in Ukraine. The program consists of a combination of outdoor activities and group therapy sessions tailored to the specific needs of participating veterans. Some activities include hiking, camping, rock climbing, and other outdoor adventures to promote physical activity and a sense of accomplishment.
The activities will also serve as a form of stress relief, allowing veterans to disconnect from their daily struggles and focus on the present. Group therapy sessions provide a safe and supportive environment for veterans to share their experiences and connect with other individuals who have gone through similar challenges. In addition to addressing mental health needs, DTCare’s adventure-based counseling program promotes social reintegration and improves the overall well-being of veterans. Through team-building activities, veterans learn to work together, communicate effectively, and trust one another, enhancing their relationships and sense of belonging. Team-building also helps combat feelings of isolation and detachment that many veterans experience after returning from war. This program provides much-needed support and resources for Ukrainian veterans who do not currently have access to adequate mental health care.
Refueling the Mind, Body, and Soul
An Adventure-Based Counseling Retreat for Ukrainian Veterans
Experience a one-of-a-kind retreat in the breathtaking Carpathian Mountains with DTCare's Hero’s Compass Adventure-Based Counseling program. The 8-day program is designed specifically for Ukrainian veterans facing mental health challenges and in need of accessible psychological support. Led by a team of mental health professionals and adventure guides, the program aims to reduce PTSD symptoms, improve mental health outcomes, address moral injury, and combat substance abuse and addiction. With a focus on adventure, psychological resilience, and relaxation, participants engage in various activities such as hiking, kayaking, art therapy, and mindfulness sessions. The program not only fosters healing and resilience but also encourages building community bonds among participants. Let DTCare help you on the road to recovery and to thrive. Contact us below to sign up or learn more.
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Adventure
Explore the therapeutic wonder of nature through DTCare’s curated outdoor activities.
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Counseling
Promote inner strength and resilience through targeted counseling sessions for veterans.
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Relaxation
Unwind and reconnect through mindfulness activities for the mind, body, and soul.
Why Adventure-Based Counseling?
The Rising Need for Psychological Support for Veterans
According to data from the Ukrainian Army, before the conflict, suicide was already the leading cause of death among service members. The mental health crisis in Ukraine has only been exacerbated by the ongoing conflict and a lack of adequate resources. The negative stigma surrounding mental health has made it even more challenging for veterans to access the support they need. Ukrainian military therapist Mykhailo Parfonov has stated that veterans often face a wide range of problems, including physical injuries, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. They may also struggle with feelings of guilt, shame, and moral conflict and are often resistant to seeking psychological help due to fears of judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hero’s Compass is a comprehensive 8-day adventure experience in the Carpathian Mountains followed by ten weeks of ongoing virtual psychological support proudly offered by DTCare to specifically support Ukrainian veterans on their mental health journey, the road to recovery, and transition back into everyday life.
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Adventure therapy is a form of psychological treatment that uses outdoor activities and challenges to help veterans cope with and overcome mental health challenges. It combines the principles of therapy with the excitement and physical challenges of outdoor activities to promote healing and growth. DTCare's Hero's Compass draws from adventure therapy to design custom adventure-based counseling sessions to support veterans.
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The types of activities involved in adventure therapy tailored for veterans can vary but may include camping, hiking, rock climbing, zip-lining, team-building exercises, and more. Since these activities allow veterans to push themselves outside of their comfort zones and develop new skills while also addressing their psychological needs, DTCare's comprehensive veteran counseling program incorporated a variety of these adventure-based activities.
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Adventure Therapy is proven to help treat mental health issues in veterans, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. It has been found to reduce symptoms, improve quality of life, and increase overall well-being.
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Yes, adventure therapy can be used alongside traditional therapy and medication, as it is often seen as a complementary treatment approach. It can be used in combination with other therapies to enhance the effectiveness of treatment. It is the adaptable nature of art therapy's adventure-based activities that allows DTCare to incorporate and customize Hero's Compass counseling sessions.
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The Hero’s Compass Adventure-based Counseling program comprises an 8-day on-site experience that is complimented by a further 10 weeks of online support where veterans have continued communication with fellow team members and facilitators.
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The requirements for participating in DTCare's Hero's Compass adventure and counseling sessions can vary depending on the specific activities, but generally, there is no specific age range or fitness level required. Programs may adapt activities to accommodate individual abilities.
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DTCare’s Hero’s Compass program is tailored to suit the unique needs of veterans specifically. Hero’s Compass does not currently include family sessions, but DTCare is always looking into ways to improve and expand the program as needs arise.
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Adventure-based counseling is effective for a variety of mental health conditions and psychological needs, but may be particularly beneficial for PTSD, substance abuse, and depression.
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Hero’s Compass mental health professionals can help determine if our adventure-based counseling is the right fit for you. They can evaluate an individual’s unique needs and recommend the most beneficial treatment approach.
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Hero's Compass' adventure-based sessions for veterans differs from traditional therapy in that it incorporates the outdoors and physical challenges. It emphasizes personal growth through experiential learning and can be particularly helpful for those who struggle with traditional talk therapy.
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After DTCare’s on-site 8-day adventure experience, veterans receive 10 weeks of additional online support where they continue communications with team members and facilitators.
Our Response to the Mental Health Crisis
Providing Practical Support and Resources to Ukrainian Veterans
The DTCare Adventure-based Counseling program aims to assist Ukrainian veterans who are facing mental health challenges and need accessible psychological support. DTCare understands veterans' unique struggles and complexities, and the program is designed to cater specifically to their needs. The comprehensive 8-day holistic adventure-based counseling program is facilitated in collaboration with the support of U.S. mental health professionals and Ukrainian experts. The program is designed to adhere to the United Nations' standards and draw inspiration from successful international models, including adventure therapy models.
Program Objectives
Fusing Adventure and Psychology to Foster Healing and Resilience
Reduce PTSD Symptoms Among Veterans
DTCare’s primary focus is to significantly reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among Ukrainian soldiers. Through effective treatment and support, our program aims to observe a 25% decrease in overall symptom scores within the following year. We also aim to improve mental health outcomes by introducing evidence-based interventions for depression and anxiety. We strive to target a 50% reduction in diagnoses compared to the national average within the next six months.
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Address Grief and Loss with Counselling
The program will also address grief and loss due to combat by providing grief counseling services and support groups. DTCare aims to achieve a 30% decrease in symptom severity within three months. Additionally, DTCare will tackle the issue of moral injury by enhancing awareness and understanding, aiming for a 20% reduction in self-reported feelings of guilt, shame, and moral conflict within the following year.
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Address Substance Abuse and Addiction
To address substance abuse and addiction, we will implement prevention and treatment programs. DTCare aims to observe a 25% decrease in reported substance use disorders within the next six months. These initiatives, together, form a comprehensive approach to enhancing the mental well-being of Ukrainian soldiers, encompassing various aspects of psychological health for a holistic recovery.
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Key Staff
Adventure-Based Counseling Led by Certified Guides, Therapists, and Industry Professionals
The expert team at White Elephant Lodge leads the adventure-based counseling program. They have extensive experience working with veterans and a deep understanding of adventure and outdoor activities as therapeutic tools. The adventure guides are certified in wilderness first aid and possess outdoor leadership and safety expertise. Art therapists utilize various art mediums to help clients express emotions, reduce stress, and promote personal growth and self-awareness. The experienced staff and therapists ensure the safety and well-being of all participants. DTCare also consults and trains industry professionals and specialists to provide on-demand assessments and tailored counseling sessions. Additionally, session facilitators and mentors provide invaluable guidance and support to veterans throughout the program.
Program Overview
A Comprehensive Approach to Healing and Support for Veterans
DTCare’s program takes place in the tranquil setting of the Carpathian Mountains, providing a serene and peaceful location for healing. Each day, the participants will engage in various exhilarating outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, and more. These activities are designed to build trust and confidence among the participants and promote team-building.
The afternoons will be dedicated to therapeutic activities, such as group discussions, art therapy, journaling, and mindfulness sessions. We will provide a relaxing and engaging group activity in the evenings, such as outdoor meditation, storytelling around a campfire, or stargazing.
Travel day: settle in and program overview. Introductions and orientation by program staff. Completion of intake forms and assessments. Program overview, group discussion, and icebreaker activities. Participants write and approve their contracts.
Day 1
Afternoon
Evening
Welcome dinner. Relaxation activities such as guided meditation or gentle stretching. Evening debriefs and preparation for the week ahead.
Activities focus primarily on trust building, icebreakers, problem solving, group discussion, and group assessment.
Day 2
Whole Day
Each day begins with an outdoor activity such as team-building games, hiking, climbing, kayaking, or whitewater rafting. Activities will be designed to build and reinforce trust throughout the program.
Day 3 - 7
Morning
Each evening offers a relaxing group activity such as outdoor meditation, storytelling around a campfire, fishing, time at the gym, nature walks, board games, or stargazing.
Evening
Participants enjoy breakfast together, participate in a closing ceremony, and complete a program evaluation and reflection.
Day 8
Morning
Resources
View our full adventure-based counseling program overview and schedule below.
Program Overview (ENG) - PDF
Program Overview (UA) - PDF
FAQ (ENG) - PDF
FAQ (UA) - PDF
DTCare's Inaugural Hero’s Compass Retreat
A Path to Healing for Ukrainian Veterans
DTCare successfully completed its inaugural Hero's Compass session, a pioneering adventure-based counseling program designed to support Ukrainian veterans in their transition to civilian life, in August 2024. Held from July 26 to August 2, 2024, the program brought together eight veterans for an immersive experience emphasizing resilience, camaraderie, and personal growth. Participants engaged in various outdoor activities, including white-water kayaking, hiking, and rock climbing, which pushed personal boundaries and fostered teamwork. Complementing these physical challenges were art therapy sessions, emotional intelligence workshops, and legal consultations, offering a comprehensive approach to healing and recovery. Adventure-based counseling has demonstrated effectiveness in addressing the unique challenges faced by veterans, such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression. By creating a supportive community and encouraging shared experiences, Hero's Compass participants reported increased connection and a renewed sense of purpose. The program's impact extends beyond the eight-day retreat, with participants receiving ongoing support through online counseling, legal guidance, and mentorship. DTCare is dedicated to supporting Ukrainian veterans on their path to healing and recovery, working together to create a brighter and more hopeful future for those who have sacrificed so much.
16% ⬇
decrease (from 44%) of participants feeling cut off form other people.
32% ⬇
decrease (from 48%) of participants struggling with anhedonia.
32% ⬇
decrease (from 60%) of participants struggling with insomnia.
24% ⬇
decrease (from 36%) of participants struggling with concentration.
32% ⬇
decrease (from 44%) of participants feeling strong emotional numbness.
44% ⬇
decrease (from 56%) of participants with regular anger outbursts.
24% ⬇
decrease (from 32%) of participants experiencing anxiety.
What People Are Saying
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How Hero’s Compass Meets the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals
Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being
Goal 4: Quality Education
By addressing the mental health needs of veterans, Hero’s Compass works to reduce symptoms of trauma and provides vital mental health resources.
Hero’s Compass implements evidence-based interventions and educates participants on mental health awareness and coping mechanisms.
Goal 5: Gender Equality
Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
Hero’s Compass provides equal opportunities for both male and female veterans to access holistic therapy and support.
By targeting veterans needing mental health support, Hero’s Compass reduces inequalities in access to psychological services.
Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Hero’s Compass collaborates with various professionals and organizations to implement a comprehensive and tailored adventure-based counseling program.
Hero's Compass addresses the consequences of conflict, promotes peace by supporting those affected, and works towards building resilient veterans.