Severe Trauma Addictions Recovery (STAR)
Contact Us
24/7 Admission point of contact:
Ed Plese, RN, BSN (816) 235-8162
STAR Wellness Program Medical Director:
Sherman Cole, MD
Nursing point of contact:
Diane Spurrier, RN, MSN
Clinical programming point of contact:
Peggy Cunningham, NCC, LPC
STAR Wellness Program
The Severe Trauma and Addictions Recovery program (STAR) is designed to meet the unique needs of those active duty military personnel who suffer from a combat/non-combat related trauma, substance abuse, or a related co-occurring disorder.
Dedicated to active duty personnel, the STAR unit is an evidence based multidisciplinary program utilizing psychiatry, nursing, social services, expressive therapies and other support staff in an effort to address the acute crisis, and then ultimately to reintegrate the soldier back into their unit.
Each individual who is admitted to the program will be assigned a dedicated social worker who will complete a thorough initial assessment to determine the patient’s needs. The social worker will meet twice weekly with the patient throughout the length of stay, and may arrange for a family meeting if appropriate.
Program Goals
- Establishing and enhancing effective coping skills
- Minimizing intrusive daily effects of experiencing trauma
- Defining the relationship between the psychiatric illness and the trauma
- Establishing sobriety
- Defining the relationship between the psychiatric illness and chemical dependency
- Developing support relationships with the community
- Developing a realistic plan of action to prevent relapse and maintain sobriety
Program Components
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) – CPT is a trauma-focused therapy that places emphasis on how the traumatic event is construed and managed by the individual who is trying to regain a sense of mastery and control of his or her life. This group will be an integral part of the schedule as it has been found to be an effective in treating trauma and related symptoms.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – CBT is an evidence based therapy that merges behavioral and cognitive therapy in an effort to keep the indi- vidual focused on the here and now, which leads to the reduction of negative behavioral symptoms. CBT is a key component of the program as it has been found effective in addressing dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, and thoughts.
Tai Chi – Tai Chi is a martial art form that has been found to be effective in improving both one’s emotional and physical health. The practice of Tai Chi accumulates energy and leaves one refreshed and relaxed. This therapy focuses on deep breathing and mental focus, creating balance, flexibility, and calmness. This group will be incorporated as a regular part of the schedule.
Expressive Arts Therapy – Comprised of a combination of occupational and recreational therapy, expressive arts therapies will incorporate a variety of activities that teach individuals how to address physical, environmental, psychosocial, mental, cultural and spiritual needs that are a part of daily living. This group will include arts, crafts, games, music and movement activities that have shown to increase reasoning ability, build confidence, improve socialization, maintain emotional well being and reduce depression, anxiety and stress.
Physical Fitness – The goal is to assure that one’s body remains in fit condition to meet the work, leisure, and emergency needs that are required for daily activities. This group will consistent of daily calisthenics and exercises to maintain physical fitness.
Sleep Hygiene – This group, which is part of a total health component, involves re-education of those suffering from sleep difficulties. It will address homeostasis, adaptive and circadian aspects of sleep control, avoiding sleep deprivation and response to unwanted awakenings. It will address behavioral and environmental factors that precede and interfere with sleep. Factors related to the timing of sleep, food intake in relationship to sleep, exercise and the sleeping environment will be addressed.
Social Skills – Effective social skills facilitate positive interaction and communication with others. This group will help individuals identify verbal and nonverbal cues and teach them to respond accordingly. Social skills to be addressed will include anger management, stress management, communication, and emotional regulation.
Substance Abuse – This group will be an important part of the program for those suffering from alcohol or drug abuse or addiction. Evidence indicates that individuals who suffer from a trauma often abuses drugs and/or alcohol as a form of self medication. This group will focus on the process of addiction, the twelve step model of alcoholics anonymous and the skills needed to obtain and maintain recovery.
