Group Processing
Group processing is when a significant event or tragedy impacts a group of people like a line of duty death, sudden death or a shattering event that rocks a person's worldview. The idea behind this Peer lead group is not to force dialogue or force people to talk, nor is it clinical therapy. Rather, it is a safe forum utilizing Peers to create a place where people will want to talk. In doing this, people learn from each other, they realize they aren't alone in how they are feeling, and they get to safely talk about the elephant in the room instead of pretending it doesn't exist.
The result of this Peer lead interaction is most people feel a sense of relief due to being heard and validated which helps put people on the road to healthy healing. It also gives people permission to talk to one another throughout the day away from the group process, to check in on each other and collectively help one another through difficult circumstances.
It's OK to hurt, it's OK to be upset, but it's not OK to suffer in silence or just "suck it up and drive on". At some point, maybe not tomorrow or even next month, but at some point something else will happen causing a cascading effect where all the emotions of past hurts spills over causing further distress because they were not dealt with properly from the beginning. Group processing allows people to deal with issues (past and present) head on which helps lighten the load, making the path back to "normal" a little less rocky and just a bit easier.
WHAT IS PEER SUPPORT?
COMPASS utilizes Peer support which is a proven model of specially trained people who have experienced trauma, grief and crisis. These Peers know what it is like to walk in the darkest valleys and have come out of those valleys battered and bruised but not beaten. Through their life experiences and training they have found purpose in being able to help others who are going through the difficulties of life. In short, our trained and trusted Peers walk with you through your valleys in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental way.
Our Peers also lead/support our group processing in the wake of a death or tragic event. During our Weekend Immersions they also facilitate small group discussions and provide a safe environment for open dialogue.
Peer Advisor Contacts
To find out more about how Peers can help or if you are interested in becoming a Peer, please contact:
- SSG Joshua Powell: 803-457-4196
- SSG Jon Harling: 843-810-6414
FAQs:
How much do these programs cost?
- They are funded through the Guard Foundation or NGB. The only requirement from the unit may be occasional orders or RMAs for select individuals.
What is the training criteria to be a Peer?
- To start, it's a 3 day training with occasional ongoing training and meetings throughout the year.
- Must be able to relate to others in grief or distress and be willing to go through difficult times with them.
- Can be a current member of the SCMD, Retiree or Spouse.
How do I get assistance for my Soldiers/Employees/Families?
- Contact CH Denny at 803-543-6049 or SSG Powell at 803-457-4196.
Who manages these programs?
- These are Unit Ministry Team programs. The full-time Unit Ministry Team serves as the primary point of contact. We also work in conjunction with our Behavioral Health team.