| dc.description.abstract | Veterans entering the moral injury program at the South Texas VA HCS begin with an introductory, psychoeducational group facilitated by a chaplain, followed by a process group co-facilitated by a chaplain and mental health provider. The group curriculum is grounded in the theoretical process of change, with the first group focusing on contemplation leading to preparation phases while the second on the action phase. The results have been promising, evidenced by a reduction in symptoms based on pre and post-group assessments along with veteran testimonies of resolution of unhealthy guilt and shame. Research on mental health treatment supports the need for maintaining change to prevent relapse, something commonly understood in substance abuse treatment. VA mental health chaplains routinely offer supportive spirituality groups, yet there is no research connecting these groups to preventing relapse. This paper sets out to fill the research gap by proving spirituality groups focused on maintaining growth to prevent relapse post-trauma-focused care in moral injury should be offered by mental health chaplains. | |
