What is VOA|ReST?
ReST = Resilience. Strength. Time.
VOA|ReST 4 First Responders are confidential, small group sessions that support and maintain emotional resilience by offering:
- A unique space for First Responders to share their experiences with other First Responders.
- Time set aside to speak honestly with peers and trained peer facilitators who know what First Responders go through.
- A service that can complement other resources their agencies might already offer. The online meetings are available from the comfort of home, on an ongoing basis, whenever support is needed.
What You Can Expect
From VOA|ReST Sessions
VOA|ReST 4 First Responders group sessions welcome all First Responders across the United States to connect in a trusted environment with other First Responders. Anything shared within the group remains confidential allowing everyone an opportunity to speak freely without fear of judgment or repercussions. Peers have the opportunity to bring their real selves – no need to be tough, no need to hide emotions.
Discussions are facilitated by trained peer specialists using strategies with healing dimensions, but VOA|ReST 4 First Responders is not a treatment program or therapy.
Online group sessions are held almost every day, are completely free, and last for about one hour. A participant will need a quiet space and a mobile device, connected to the internet. Although not required, video access is preferred to foster communication and empathy between attendees.
Each hour consists of the
following four components:
Introductions
(confidentiality guidelines, definition of purpose, intro to deep listening)
Moral Distress Processing
(mindfulness breathing practice, guided meditation, sharing)
Affirmations
(encouragment, supportive feedback)
Gratitude
(positive personal statements, reflection on time together)