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August 16, 2024
Alternative Therapies for Addictive Disorders

In a world filled with chaos and stress, finding inner peace can seem like an elusive goal. But fear not, for the ancient practices of yoga and meditation hold the key to unlocking a sense of calm and clarity within ourselves. Join us as we explore the transformative power of these age-old techniques in promoting mental wellness and cultivating a deep sense of inner peace. It’s time to embark on a journey towards self-discovery and tranquility – are you ready to take that first step?

Introduction: The Importance of Mental Wellness 

Welcome to a journey towards finding inner peace and mental wellness. In a world filled with hustle and bustle, it’s easy to neglect our mental health. But fear not, as we delve into the transformative powers of yoga and meditation in nurturing a harmonious mind. Join us on this exploration of alternative therapies that can bring balance and serenity into your life.

Understanding Alternative Therapies for Mental Health Treatment

Seeking treatment for mental health issues can be a daunting journey, with traditional medication and therapy not always being the perfect fit for everyone. This is where alternative therapies come into play, offering unique approaches to enhancing mental wellness. From art therapy to acupuncture treatment, these unconventional treatments focus on the mind-body connection and provide holistic healing solutions.

Art therapy involves using creative outlets like painting or drawing to express emotions and reduce stress. This form of therapy allows individuals to explore their feelings in a non-verbal way, promoting self-discovery and emotional release. On the other hand, acupuncture aims to balance the body’s energy flow by inserting thin needles into specific acupuncture points along meridian lines.

This ancient Chinese practice has been shown to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression by restoring harmony within the body.

Alternative medicine, including traditional Chinese medicine, offers a variety of complementary therapies for mental health treatment.

By understanding alternative therapies for mental health treatment, individuals can discover new avenues towards finding inner peace and emotional balance. It’s about embracing diverse methods that resonate with personal needs and preferences, ultimately paving the way for overall well-being and improved quality of life.

Acupuncture works by stimulating the central nervous system, releasing beneficial chemicals that enhance the body’s natural healing abilities and influence both physical and emotional well-being.

The Connection Between Yoga, Meditation, and Mental Wellness

Yoga and meditation are not just physical exercises; they go beyond the realm of the body to nurture the mind and spirit. The connection between these ancient practices and mental wellness is profound. Through breathwork, movement, and mindfulness, yoga helps in calming the mind and reducing stress levels.

Meditation, on the other hand, allows us to observe our thoughts without judgment, creating space for inner peace to flourish. It aids in improving focus, clarity, and emotional well-being. When combined, yoga and meditation work synergistically to bring balance to our mental state.

The practice of yoga asanas releases tension stored in the body, which often manifests as anxiety disorders or depression. By cultivating a regular routine that includes both yoga and meditation sessions, individuals can experience a sense of tranquility amidst life’s chaos.

Incorporating these practices into your daily life can lead to increased self-awareness and a deeper connection with your inner self. The journey towards mental wellness through yoga and meditation is one of self-discovery and healing from within.

How Yoga and Meditation Help with Stress and Anxiety

Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress and anxiety? Yoga and meditation could be your key to finding calm amidst the chaos. These ancient practices offer a powerful way to quiet the mind and soothe the spirit.

Yoga involves gentle movements, deep breathing, and mindfulness, which can help release tension in both body and mind. By focusing on the present moment during yoga practice, you can let go of worries about the past or future.

Meditation takes this a step further by encouraging stillness and introspection. Through regular meditation sessions, you can train your mind to observe thoughts without judgment, reducing anxious feelings over time.

Both yoga and meditation have been shown to lower cortisol levels – the hormone associated with stress – leading to a sense of relaxation and overall well-being. So next time you’re feeling frazzled, consider rolling out your mat or taking a few minutes for meditation to restore balance within yourself.

Incorporating Yoga and Meditation into Your Daily Routine

Incorporating yoga and meditation into your daily routine can be a game-changer for your mental wellness. Start by setting aside just a few minutes each day to practice these activities. Find a quiet space, roll out your mat, and begin with some gentle stretches or deep breathing exercises.

Try to make it a habit by scheduling specific times during the day dedicated to your practice. It could be in the morning to kickstart your day with positivity or in the evening to unwind and relax after a long day.

Experiment with different types of yoga practices such as Hatha, Vinyasa, or Restorative, and find what resonates best with you. Similarly, explore various meditation techniques like mindfulness meditation or loving-kindness meditation to see which one helps calm your mind and soothe your soul.

Remember, consistency is key when incorporating these practices into your routine. Over time, you’ll start noticing the transformative effects they have on both your mental and physical well-being.

Exploring Other Alternative Therapies for Mental Health Treatment (Art Therapy, Acupuncture)

When it comes to mental health treatment, exploring alternative therapies can open up a world of healing possibilities beyond traditional methods. Art therapy is one such approach that uses creative expression to help individuals process emotions and reduce stress. Through painting, drawing, or other artistic mediums, individuals can tap into their inner thoughts and feelings in a non-verbal way.

On the other hand, acupuncture, an ancient Chinese practice involving the insertion of thin acupuncture needles into specific points on the body, has shown promising results in alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression. By stimulating energy flow along meridian pathways, acupuncture procedures aim to restore balance and promote overall well-being. Acupuncture treatments are tailored to individual needs, ensuring a personalized approach to mental health care.

Additionally, auricular acupuncture and medical acupuncture are specialized forms that target specific conditions and require consultation with healthcare providers to ensure safety and efficacy.

Both art therapy and acupuncture offer unique avenues for self-exploration and healing that complement more mainstream treatments. The FDA regulates acupuncture needles as medical devices, ensuring they meet safety standards to prevent infection and ensure proper use during acupuncture treatments.

Integrating these alternative therapies into your mental wellness routine can provide a holistic approach to nurturing your mind and spirit. Randomized controlled trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of these therapies in treating mental health conditions, further supporting their integration into comprehensive treatment plans.

Real Life Stories: Personal Experiences with Yoga and Meditation for Mental Wellness

Lena, a busy professional, found solace in yoga and meditation after struggling with anxiety for years. Through her daily practice, she learned to quiet her racing thoughts and embrace inner peace.

On the other hand, Mark, a college student dealing with stress from exams and deadlines, turned to meditation as a way to center himself amidst the chaos. It not only helped him focus better but also reduced his overall anxiety levels.

Sarah, a stay-at-home mom juggling multiple responsibilities, discovered that yoga provided her with much-needed mental clarity and emotional balance. It became her sanctuary in the midst of everyday challenges.

Each of these individuals found their own unique path to mental wellness through yoga and meditation. Their stories serve as inspiring testimonials to the transformative power of these ancient practices on modern-day mental health struggles – proving that finding inner peace is indeed within reach for everyone willing to explore alternative therapies.

Conclusion: Embracing a Holistic Approach

In embracing a holistic approach to mental wellness, incorporating practices like yoga and meditation can have profound effects on our overall well-being. By understanding alternative therapies such as art therapy and acupuncture, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities for healing and self-discovery. The power of these ancient practices lies in their ability to connect the mind, body, and spirit in a way that traditional treatments may not always address.

As we navigate the challenges of modern life, finding inner peace becomes essential for maintaining mental health. Through the practice of yoga and meditation, we can cultivate mindfulness, reduce stress, and manage anxiety more effectively. By making these practices a part of our daily routine, we take proactive steps toward nurturing our mental well-being.

Real-life stories from individuals who have experienced the transformative benefits of yoga and meditation serve as powerful reminders of the impact these practices can have on our lives. Their journeys inspire us to explore alternative therapies with an open mind and heart, knowing that true healing comes from addressing all aspects of our being.

In closing this discussion on the power of yoga and meditation for mental wellness, let us remember that true healing is not just about treating symptoms but about nourishing our whole selves – mind, body, and spirit. Embracing a holistic approach means acknowledging the interconnectedness of all aspects of our being and seeking out therapies that support this unity. May we continue on this journey towards inner peace with openness, curiosity, and compassion for ourselves and others alike.

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    Riley Tangeman, Therapist

    Please join us in welcoming Riley Tangeman, LSW to the First City Recovery Center team! Riley joined us this week as a full-time therapist, bringing with her a strong background in community mental health, trauma-informed care, and addiction treatment. Riley is passionate about helping clients feel seen, heard, and empowered in their recovery journeys. She also serves as the founder of Lotus Recovery, a women’s recovery residence in Marion, Indiana, where she continues to mentor women navigating substance use recovery. Her dedication to bridging individual needs with systemic change is evident in her work addressing stigma, gender inequality, and socioeconomic barriers affecting marginalized populations. When she’s not working, Riley enjoys house projects, biking, reading, being in nature, walking her dog, and staying active. We’re thrilled to have her on board and can’t wait to see the positive impact she’ll have at FCRC!

    Vahid Osman, M.D. Medical Director

    Medical Director Board Certification by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology

    Dr. Vahid Osman, MD is a Board Certified Psychiatrist serving as First City Mental Health Center’s Medical Director. Dr. Osman has over 32 years of experience in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, and Addiction and Substance Use Disorders.

    He studied at Universite Hassan II, Faculte de Medicine and completed his residency at University of Texas, Austin State Hospital. He is affiliated with Prohealth Waukesha Memorial Hospital and is well known throughout the Kokomo community. Additionally, he is licensed to practice Telepsychiatry in California, Georgia, Illinois, and Wisconsin.

    Jacqueline V. Lazzaro, Executive Director

    Jacqueline is a highly qualified and experienced Program Director at First City Recovery, where she has been instrumental in the development and carrying out of innovative client programs and services. With over nine years of experience in the behavioral health field, Jacqueline is a respected leader dedicated to enhancing the lives of those battling mental health and substance abuse disorders. As our Program Director, she oversees First City Recovery Center, ensuring regulatory compliance, utilization, effective interpersonal relations, and quality client care.

    Jacqueline is an expert in developing programs and evaluation, quality enhancement, and staff training and development. She has committed herself to ensuring that the First City Recovery Center exceeds state and Joint Commission requirements and standards, and has a track record of meeting all specifications, standards, and measurable outcomes.

    Jacqueline’s motivational leadership inspires the First City Recovery Center team to continue striving for excellence in service and care. She thrives in going above and beyond to ensure that all clients receive the utmost quality of compassion, services, safety, and care.

    Lindsay Russell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP at First City Recovery Center

    Lindsay serves as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and is proud to be a part of the team at First City Recovery Center. Her primary goal is to be a supportive partner in the client’s journey to wellness.  She crafts personalized treatment plans that put individuals in control of their healing process. She serves as their guide, assisting clients in reaching the positive changes they seek.

    “I believe in collaborative decision-making, where we work together to ensure you’re comfortable and confident in the treatment choices we make. Your empowerment and achieving your desired outcomes safely are my top priorities.”

    Lindsay specializes in medication management for a range of mental health diagnoses, catering to individuals ages 6 and older. With over 19 years of experience in mental health, she brings a wealth of expertise to the table.  Her team includes nurse practitioners, therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists, all dedicated to meeting clients’ mental health needs.  Lindsay is always available to make sure clients receive the very best care and support during and after their treatment stay.

    Seeking mental health treatment can be a challenging and daunting process.  She is there to listen with an open mind, provide the necessary resources, and help clients achieve their treatment goals. “We all need someone in our corner to confide in, and I’m eager to be that person for you.”

    Remember “Tough times never last, but tough people do.” – Robert H. Schuller

    Tara Gibson, RN Lead Nurse at First City Recovery Center

    Tara Gibson is a registered nurse with 10 years’ experience in the healthcare industry. She is from Kokomo and obtained her bachelor’s degree in nursing science from Indiana University of Kokomo. During her career Tara has worked in a variety of settings, starting in medical imaging where she worked for Ascension St. Vincent. Her compassionate approach and patient-centered care is what sets her apart in the mental health and addiction field. Believing that empathy and compassion are key drivers to a fulfilling life of serving others, she is passionate about understanding the individual needs and preferences of each patient and tailoring her care accordingly. Tara loves working at First City Recovery Center because “it is a locally owned treatment facility that is providing a solution to our community’s struggle with addiction & Mental Health. The positive impact this center is bringing to our community and just being part of the solution directly aligns with both my professional and personal goals.” Deeply involved in her community, Tara is family-oriented and enjoys volunteering for local events.

    Michael Durham - Admissions Coordinator

    Michael Durham is an Admissions Coordinator for First City Mental Health Center.  He graduated from Florida State University and has been working in the substance abuse and mental health field for nine years in multiple roles and settings. He is a firm believer in second chances and that redemption is possible. What Michael enjoys most about his job is seeing the transformation that can occur in someone and the positive impact that person can have on their community. In his free time, he enjoys surfing, spending time with my family, and rooting for Florida State University sports teams.

    “There’s no need to talk about it, because the truth of what one says lies in what one does.” -Bernhard Schlink

    Kevin Metz - Admissions Coordinator

    Kevin Metz is the Admissions Coordinator for First City Mental Health Center. He started working in this field in 2013 because of his passion for helping broken people recreate their lives and recover from the disease of addiction. There is no greater joy in life for Kevin than watching individuals who were once struggling with drugs and alcohol recover from this fatal disease and become the person that they were truly meant to be. His job entails working with individuals and their families, guiding them through the process of entering treatment and giving the best care possible.  He always considers each and every person that he places into treatment as his greatest accomplishment working in this field followed by being a founding member of Young Addiction Professionals in association with Texas Association of Addiction Professionals. Kevin currently lives in The Woodlands, TX and is in recovery himself.  This makes working with individuals and their families all the more rewarding. “Find a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life”.

    Rachel Duhe - Admissions Coordinator

    Rachel has been working with SBH for two years and brings six years of experience in the addiction and behavioral health field.  Her job is to help people who are struggling with mental health and/or substance use disorders receive the help they need. As someone who is in recovery herself and suffered a great deal, she is very passionate about helping others achieve sobriety. “I know what the outcome is if treatment and recovery are not involved. I genuinely love what we offer at our programs. Nothing is more rewarding than being able to see numerous success stories daily as the result.”

    Chris Cosgrove - Admissions Coordinator

    Christopher Cosgrove brings a wealth of experience to First City Recovery Center as an Admissions Coordinator. With a dedicated career spanning 12 years, Chris has immersed himself in various aspects of the recovery field, gaining valuable insights and expertise. Christopher’s true passion lies in making a positive impact on the lives of those struggling with substance use and mental health issues. His commitment to helping individuals navigate the challenging journey towards recovery is at the core of his professional mission.

    Drawing from years of experience, Christopher is well-versed in the intricacies of recovery services. As an Admissions Coordinator, he plays a crucial role in guiding individuals through the initial steps of their recovery journey, providing support, understanding, and a compassionate approach.  Beyond his role, Christopher is deeply committed to fostering a community that values holistic well-being. His dedication extends to creating a safe and nurturing environment for individuals seeking assistance, ensuring that they receive the care and attention needed for a successful recovery. Christopher’s journey is supported by a strong educational foundation, with a background in marketing and sales. This academic background enhances his ability to approach recovery with a comprehensive and informed perspective.

    In his free time, Christopher enjoys playing golf recreationally, video games and spending time with friends, family, and his three children. Reflecting his balanced approach to life, Christopher and the First City Recovery Center team’s motto is, “Join us on the path to recovery, where compassion meets expertise.”

    Riley Metz - Director of Admissions

    Riley brings a unique blend of skills and experiences to his role. A graduate in informatics and business from Indiana University, Riley initially ventured into the computer programming world with startups. However, recognizing the limited social interaction in this field, he transitioned into real estate development, working as a broker and marketer.  During this time, Riley discovered his passion for working directly with potential clients and assisting them in taking significant steps in their lives. Concurrently, he became all too familiar with the challenges of addiction and its profound impact on individuals and families. Motivated by a desire to contribute to solutions in this area, Riley found his way to the admissions and intake side of treatment.

    In his role, Riley works closely with potential clients, friends, and family members, guiding them on their journey toward education and recovery from drugs, alcohol, and mental health issues. Witnessing the devastating effects of addiction on families and their lives, he felt compelled to be part of an industry dedicated to creating solutions. Riley is committed to making a positive impact by assisting individuals along their path to recovery, embodying the mission of First City Recovery Center.

     


     

    Rebekka Carmack, Administrative Assistant

    Rebekka is the Administrative Assistant at First City Recovery Center, where she plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the organization. Rebekka is a skilled and detail-oriented professional who is committed to providing the highest level of support to First City Recovery Center and its clients.

    Rebekka holds an Associate of Business management where she studied at Ivy Tech College. She is committed to ongoing professional development and training, and is always looking for ways to improve her skills and knowledge.

    Rebekka’s expertise includes managing schedules, coordinating meetings and appointments, maintaining accurate records, and providing excellent customer service to clients and stakeholders. She is dedicated to ensuring that all administrative tasks are completed accurately and in a timely manner, and is always willing to go above and beyond to ensure the success of the organization.

    In addition to her professional experience, Rebekka is a friendly and personable individual who is passionate about helping others. She is committed to providing exceptional customer service to clients, staff and visitors, and is always willing to lend a helping hand. Rebekka is a valuable member of the First City Recovery Center team, and is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those she serves.

    Amber Heath, Senior Case Manager

    Amber is a dedicated and compassionate Senior Case Manager at First City Recovery Center. With 12+ years of experience in the medical field and 9+ years in the behavioral health field. Amber is a skilled professional who is committed to helping clients achieve their treatment goals and improve their overall quality of life.

    Amber’s expertise includes working with indigent families, the elderly population, and with domestic violence shelters. She received her bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Grace College and is also a Certified Nursing Assistant. Amber oversees all case management services and assists with the intake coordination process. She assists clients with identifying the barriers that are keeping them from success and gives them the tools and resources they need to be liberated from those barriers. She has extensive experience working with diverse populations, including individuals with serious mental illness and  substance abuse disorders.

    In addition to her professional experience, Amber  is a compassionate and empathetic individual who truly cares about the well-being of others. She is committed to providing the highest quality of care to each and every client she works with and is passionate about making a positive difference in their lives. Amber is a valued member of the First City Recovery Center team and is dedicated to helping clients achieve their full potential.

    Jeff Lazzaro, Director of Operations

    Jeff is the Director of Operations at First City Recovery Center. As a seasoned operator with 11+ years of experience in the behavioral healthcare industry, Jeff is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the organization, ensuring that high-quality care is provided to clients, and that the organization runs smoothly and efficiently.

    Jeff carefully guides First City Recovery Center’s team to strive for excellence in the continuity of care for all clients by promoting awareness of individual needs, and for all by fostering excellent communication between the client, care team and their loved ones. Jeff thrives on assuring to assure that First City Recovery Center continues to build the most sincere and exceptional quality service to fulfill the expectations and emptiness to our clients and their loved ones.

    Jeff is passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of others. He is committed to providing the highest quality of care to clients, and is deeply invested in the success of First City Recovery Center. He is a respected leader within the behavioral healthcare industry, and is dedicated to helping the organization achieve its mission of providing compassionate care to those in need.

     


     

    Lindsie Bazzel, LMHC, CADAC V, Clinical Director at First City Recovery Center

    Lindsie Bazzel has been involved in the substance use disorder treatment industry for over a decade. Lindsie specializes in the leadership of clinical teams and the development of clinical treatment programs. She received her bachelor’s degree from Florida State University in 2008 and her Master’s degree from Nova Southeastern University in 2010.

    Lindsie has treated diverse populations including juveniles, adults, and couples. Lindsie holds multiple professional licenses in various states and has experience coordinating with the local, state, and federal levels to develop treatment programs. Her extensive experience and dedicated passion to her work has allowed Lindsie to create treatment environments conducive to client sobriety and success.

    Nathan White, EAP Liaison

    Nathan’s journey is a remarkable testament to the transformative power of recovery. Growing up in Kokomo, Indiana, he faced the challenges of active addiction for nearly two decades. However, on March 15th, 2018, Nathan made a pivotal decision to get sober, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his life.

    Embracing recovery wholeheartedly, Nathan immersed himself in various support groups, including Celebrate Recovery, AA (Alcoholics Anonymous), NA (Narcotics Anonymous), and South Creek Recovery faith-based 12-step meetings. His commitment to sobriety and personal growth led him to discover a profound passion and purpose in helping others navigate the challenges of addiction.

    In a significant milestone, Nathan joined First City Recovery Center on December 7th, 2020, becoming the first person from Kokomo to be hired at the facility. Serving as the Recovery Liaison and Group Facilitator, Nathan plays a crucial role both within the facility and in the community. His dedication extends beyond the walls of the recovery center, as he actively engages with people, aiding them in their journey toward freedom from active addiction.

    Nathan not only facilitates recovery groups, but also shares his personal story, experiences, strength, and hope at recovery meetings and community events. His willingness to be open about his journey contributes to reducing the stigma surrounding addiction and inspires others to seek help.

    Recognizing the importance of community involvement, Nathan serves as a council member of the Drug-Free Howard County Substance Abuse Prevention Local Coordinating Council (LCC). This council, a division of the Governor’s Commission for a Drug-Free Indiana Local Coordinating Council, plays a pivotal role in providing essential funding to substance abuse prevention organizations.

    In summary, Nathan’s story is one of resilience, redemption, and community engagement. Through his work at First City Recovery Center and involvement in local councils, he continues to make a positive impact on the lives of those struggling with addiction while actively contributing to substance abuse prevention efforts in Howard County.


    Sherry Waymire, Regional EAP Liaison at First City Recovery Center

    Sherry Waymire, the Regional EAP Liaison at First City Recovery Center, holds a Master’s in Management and a Master’s in Leadership. She is also certified as a Labor Assistance Professional (LAP-C).  With an impressive career spanning 31 years at Chrysler Corporation (now Stellantis), Sherry dedicated 23 of those years as the UAW Employee Assistance Representative for Local 685. This extensive experience uniquely positions her as a valuable asset in her role at FCRC, where she has embarked on a second career.  Sherry’s wealth of knowledge and expertise, coupled with her commitment to employee assistance, makes her a vital contributor to the First City Recovery Center team. Her background and dedication reflect the organization’s commitment to providing exceptional care and support.


     

    Allison Pugh, BD Executive at First City Recovery Center

    With 18 years of experience in mental health and substance use disorder treatment, Allison Pugh currently serves as a Community Recovery Liaison at First City Recovery Center in Indiana. She played a crucial role in launching a groundbreaking trauma-informed and evidence-based treatment program for individuals in the criminal justice system, providing an alternative to incarceration. In addition to creating a federally qualified healthcare system catering to those without insurance and uninsured communities, Allison played a key role in revamping a program for homeless Veterans that specializes in treating co-occurring disorders.

    During her senior year in college, she contributed to the development of an eight-week treatment program at the Plainfield Re-Entry Facility. With a versatile background encompassing non-profits, hospitals, correctional facilities, and behavioral healthcare facilities, Allison is dedicated to serving marginalized and underserved populations. Acknowledged for excellence, she earned a nomination as the Addictions Professional of the Year by ICAADA in 2018.  Allison holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Indiana University, and her commitment to community service extends through volunteer work with organizations like Parke-Vermillion Humane Shelter, Big Brothers Big Sisters, YMCA of Greater Indianapolis, and the Wheeler Mission.

    Hannah Gauger, LMHCA, MA, Clinical Therapist & Clinical Lead at First City Recovery Center

    Hannah is a graduate of Indiana University of Kokomo, holding a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. She brings a unique perspective to her role, having served as a United States Air Force veteran for eight years, focusing on communications and Honor Guard services. Outside of her professional life, Hannah enjoys staying active, traveling the world, and cherishing moments with family and friends.

    With a diverse background, Hannah has worked in various roles, including life skills coaching, case management with the Department of Child Services, advocacy for domestic violence victims, mobile crisis intervention, and as a registered National Coalition Against Domestic Violence speaker. Her expertise lies in Substance Use, ADHD, and borderline personality disorders, with a strong foundation in Dialectical Behavior and Cognitive Behavioral Theories.

    Hannah’s passion extends to helping individuals in domestic violence crisis situations, and she incorporates feminist theories to empower her clients. At First City Recovery Center, she plays a crucial role in leading a veteran’s peer support group and providing co-occurring services.

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