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By KALEN CHURCHER kchurcher@leader.net
Friday, March 21, 2003 Page: 3A
Though not created because of terrorist acts or war, a new program offered
through Northeast Counseling Services could not be more timely, says its
coordinator.
“Destinations” helps local women address problems with post-traumatic
stress disorder. Once referred to as shell shock, the illness “is an anxiety
disorder that can develop after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in
which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened,” according to the
National Institute of Mental Health.
The American Psychiatric Association estimates the disorder has afflicted
10 percent of people at some point and impacts more women than men.
Linda O’Boyle, the program’s service coordinator, says response has been
steady since the first session began in December. She attributes greater
understanding of domestic violence to the program’s demand.
So far, several dozen individuals have requested information. Though the
program only has room for 12 clients each at the Nanticoke and Hazleton
locations, openings exist.
“A lot of people have expressed interest in the program, but some of them
are not ready to attend,” Boyle said. “With some, there are safety concerns
with their lifestyle right now. Some have jobs that did not fit into the
program schedule.”
The intense 30-session program meets from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. multiple
times per week and has an all-female staff. “We hope the clients will benefit
from the program, better understand their trauma and lead better lives …
more normalized lives.”
Of those participating, many have identified sexual abuse as their
prevailing trauma, O’Boyle said, though other triggers may include physical
abuse, threats, a crime, or witnessing someone else experience a similar
event.
Fear of terrorism or the war itself may amplify stress for those struggling
to cope, said Vickie Charabati, marketing specialist for Northeast Counseling
Services.
Charabati says the program allows victims to delve deeper into issues that
might not be thoroughly discussed in a typical counseling session. Inquiries
are confidential and admission is on a rolling basis.
Kalen Churcher, a Times Leader staff writer, may be reached at 831-7329.
For more information on Destinations, call Linda O’Boyle at 455-6385 or
735-7590. Sessions are held in Nanticoke and Hazleton.