The Veteran Resilience Project (VRP) is a Minnesota-based nonprofit organization dedicated to facilitating healing and resilience among Veterans, Service Members, and their spouses who are experiencing trauma and post-traumatic stress (PTS). Established in 2015 by certified EMDR therapist Elaine Wynne, VRP aims to provide accessible and effective mental health support tailored to the unique needs of the military community.
Central to VRP’s services is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, a research-backed treatment proven effective for trauma and PTSD. EMDR assists individuals in processing and integrating traumatic memories, leading to significant reductions in symptoms such as anxiety and depression. VRP offers 12 EMDR therapy sessions at no cost, with options for additional sessions as needed. These services are available both in-person and via telehealth, ensuring accessibility across Minnesota.
VRP’s network comprises highly qualified EMDR therapists who possess a deep understanding of military culture, enhancing their ability to address the specific challenges faced by Veterans and Service Members. This statewide network ensures that clients receive culturally competent care within their communities.
The organization serves all Minnesota Veterans, regardless of discharge status, as well as currently serving military members and their spouses. By focusing on this broad demographic, VRP strives to promote healing and resilience throughout the military community.
For those interested in accessing VRP’s services or seeking more information, the organization can be contacted via email at info@veteranresilience.org or by calling their Care Coordinator at 763-358- 2275. Additionally, their website offers resources and avenues to begin the process of receiving EMDR therapy.
In summary, the Veteran Resilience Project stands as a vital resource for Minnesota’s military community, offering free, effective EMDR therapy to support individuals in overcoming trauma and fostering lasting resilience.
A few quotes on resilience by Marcus Aurelius that along with VRPs service may provide strength and perspective to address your daily challenges:
“You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” Marcus may have been saying our true power lies in controlling our reactions, not external circumstances.
“Life is neither good nor evil, but only a place for good and evil.” The Stoic view that life itself is neutral; our resilience is shaped by how we respond to its events.
“External things are not the problem. It’s your assessment of them. Which you can erase right now.” Practice objective judgement to maintain equanimity in the face of adversity.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
