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Writer's pictureNetsanet Tegegn LCSW

Navigating the Transition: From Military to Civilian Life

Transitioning from military to civilian life is a significant and often challenging change. For many veterans, this shift involves more than just a change in occupation; it requires an adaptation to a completely new lifestyle and culture. At Restorative Psychotherapy and Wellness, in Tennessee and Virginia, we understand the complexities of this transition and are committed to providing the necessary support and guidance. In this blog, we will explore the common challenges veterans face during this transition, how therapy services can help, and highlight the expertise of our dedicated therapist, Karen C. Lewis. Connect with us today!



 

Understanding the Challenges 

The transition from military to civilian life can be overwhelming. Veterans may face several challenges, including finding employment, adjusting to social norms, and dealing with physical and psychological wounds from their service. This period of change can lead to heightened anxiety, depression, and even PTSD. The sense of loss — from camaraderie with fellow soldiers to a clearly defined role in the military — can further complicate the adjustment process.



The Role of Therapy Services 

Therapy services play a crucial role in helping veterans navigate their transition. Through trauma counseling and PTSD therapy, veterans can process their experiences and begin to heal. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and other evidence-based trauma therapies are particularly effective in treating PTSD and anxiety. These therapeutic modalities help veterans reframe their thoughts, process traumatic therapy, and develop healthy coping mechanisms.



Counseling for Anxiety and Trauma

Veterans often experience anxiety due to the uncertainty and newness of civilian life. Counseling for anxiety can provide veterans with tools to manage their symptoms and regain control over their lives. By working with a therapist, veterans can explore the root cause of their anxiety and develop strategies to address them. Trauma counseling is also essential for veterans who have experienced combat or other traumatic events. This type of counseling focuses on helping individuals process their trauma, reduce its impact, and build resilience.


Karen C. Lewis: Your Guide Through the Transition

At Restorative Psychotherapy and Wellness, we are proud to have Karen C. Lewis as part of our team. Karen is a Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist (CCTP), Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and marriage and family therapist. Her advanced training in therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, CBT, and evidence-based trauma therapies, allows her to address various conditions effectively. Karen specializes in helping individuals, couples, and families resolve complex issues, develop healthy habits, and establish a stronger sense of self. She is particularly effective in assisting clients in managing anxiety, processing grief and loss, and working through traumatic experiences.


Transitioning from military to civilian life is undoubtedly challenging, but with the right support and guidance, it can also be an opportunity for growth and healing. At Restorative Psychotherapy and Wellness, we are dedicated to helping veterans navigate the transition through our comprehensive therapy services. If you or a loved one are struggling with anxiety, PTSD, and other challenges related to this transition, we encourage you to contact us to schedule an appointment. Let us help you navigate this transition with the care and support you deserve.


 

Karen C Lewis, MSSW, LMFT, LCSW: 


“As an experienced trauma therapist, my utmost priority is to provide a secure and compassionate environment that allows for the exploration of your emotions and experiences. Through empathy and collaboration, I intend to create a welcoming and accepting space where you feel safe to enter the transformative process to explore deeply personal issues actively, find different perspectives, reframe limiting thoughts and experiences, reconnect with the body’s wisdom, and states of focused relaxation that give rise to confident self-expression, clarification of purpose, the experience of growth and change, and more profound connection in relationships with self and others. I truly believe that healing from emotional and traumatic pain is a journey that requires patience and compassion, and I am committed to being by my client’s side every step of the way.”





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