Working with Veterans in Prison: "Don't Mention Art or Therapy"

Abstract

This paper examines the health risks and issues associated with Military Training and Military Service in order to establish a veteran informed approach to working therapeutically with veterans in prison. It is written by a military veteran, and describes the author's work with veterans in prison using undirected, change focussed art therapy. It describes a conference workshop offered for delegates, which used the same format as that used in prisons. The different experiences are discussed. We asked: "What is a veteran?" 

Keywords: Military Training, Military Service, The Veterans Service (NHS), Kings Centre for Military Health Research (KCMHR), PTSD, Adjustment Issues, Mental Health, Risks, Veteran Informed Approach, Psychological Injury, Criminal Justice System, Military Covenant