Free crisis counseling for hurricane survivors is available in Livingston, St. Helena, St Tammany, Tangipahoa and Washington Parishes. To learn more, call (985) 674 -0488.
Help in easing the emotional and mental health issues left in the wake of the storm has been a major need. Volunteers of America is helping by delivering comprehensive crisis counseling services, made possible by a $6.2 million grant from the state Department of Health and Hospitals.
Louisiana Spirit also works to educate the community, does outreach work to bring services to neighborhoods and provides specialized services for those with special needs.
. Crisis Counseling
In addition to traditional crisis counseling, teams will also cover stress management, grief and loss.
. Community Education
Educational and informative messages will be disseminated about the emotional affects of disaster, the need for help and services available.
. Outreach
Staff members will survey neighborhoods and doing other kinds of outreach work to locate and help those in need.
. Services For Children
Staff members will be in schools seeking to identify and help children and adolescents dealing with emotional issues from the disaster. Staff will also help faculty interact positively with students.
. First Responders
At greater risk because of the trauma and stress they have experienced, first responders and their unique needs are a priority.
. People With Special Needs
Specialized outreach services are available for persons with mental and physical disabilities, pregnancy, homelessness and seniors.