Sessions
Breakout Session 4A - Graham Bettes - Building Valhalla - Utilizing strong peer support in the management of PTSD and traumatic stress
2:45 PM - 3:45 PM Wed
: My journey from healthy and happy into the depths of PTSD. My presentation shows the changes in the mental health landscape from the 90's to present. Finally culminating in the creation of the Valhalla Project Niagara, a program for veterans and first responders with PTSD which teaches basic steps to a common sense approach to dealing with post traumatic stress and ultimately suicide. The program relies heavily on daily peer support and normalization of the effects of stress. Management facets include, Support network management, addictions, medication, group meeting, therapy, lifestyle, and various coping skills. We endeavor to remove the stigma around mental health, PTSD, and suicide. Our methodology is research based and shown to have positive effects.
12 year military veteran with overseas tour,
32 years law enforcement, including Peer support team leader and OIC organizational wellness.
Volunteer Fire Fighter
Diagnoses with PTSD (with Anxiety and Depression) in 2013.
Masters in Counselling Psychology, specializing in CBT,CPT, and EMDR.
Instructor - Black Belt - Veterans Jiu Jitsu - Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Program
Chaplain
Director - Valhalla Project Niagara