The Veteran Aquatic Therapy program at Healing Wave Aquatics
Our aquatic therapy program, funded by grants and donations, is designed to support a client through 8 weeks of individualized sessions at no cost. At the core of our mission, we have helped over 700 veterans, active-duty military, and their caregivers in their journey with Post Traumatic Stress.
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
- First, we ask that you submit an application on our website. Healing Wave Aquatics - Application
- Next, our Wellness Specialist will reach out to you via email about your application and submitting our required documents.
- After we receive your forms and documents. Our Wellness Specialist will schedule an orientation with you to go over the program, answer any questions or concerns you may have, and pair you with a practitioner so that you may begin right away.
ELIGIBILITY
- Veterans, Active-Duty Military, and their caregivers may apply
- Proof of service, proof of Post Traumatic Stress, and proof of Low-to-Moderate Income
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- Proof of Military Service (DD214, VA ID card, Spouse/Dependent ID)
- Proof of Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms (VA benefits letter or myhealthevet message, note from a caseworker or therapist), and
- Income Verification W2, paystub, service-connected rating, etc. (to provide this service for free or low-cost)
WHAT IS PROVIDED?
Our therapeutic warm-water program includes:
- 8 (1 hour) sessions of non-talk, drug-free, warm-water aquatic therapy.
- Sessions are completed over 8 consecutive weeks. (10-week program limit)
- You will be paired with a skilled aquatic practitioner for weekly, one-on-one sessions in our private therapy pools.
- You will experience light stretching, massage, and deliberate movement through 96-degree water. Meant to bring about a significant state of relaxation and calm.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING A SESSION
- The sessions are conducted in a pool that is heated to 96 degrees. This temperature is the same as our skin temperature, making it feel like an immersive experience
- The sessions include gentle stretching, twisting, and calm breathing
- Around 20 minutes into the session, breathing becomes longer and deeper, at this stage therapists provide movements tailored for the individual to be in sync with their pattern of breathing. This can produce a release from trauma that is held physically by the body, as well as clear a calm space in the mind.
Aquatic Therapy for Veterans
Why Warm Water Therapy Works
FAQs
NO, we recognize that symptoms of PTS are complex and can be related to several types of trauma.
We serve all veterans regardless of discharge status.
All of our program participants are eligible to re-apply 12 months from the date of their last session.
“Caregiver” is defined by the participating veteran. Typically, this includes a spouse, partner, family member, or person living in the home with the veteran.
We will use the veteran you are caring for proof of service and symptoms.
Depression, anxiety, suicide ideation, Persistent, negative, & exaggerated thoughts, Feeling hypervigilant & on edge, Constantly feeling irritable or showing aggressive behavior, Acting out in a reckless or self-destructive manner, Persistent feelings of fear, horror, anger, shame, or guilt, Feelings that you are detached from others, Not being able to fall asleep or experiencing restlessness in sleep.