W&J College to Host Educational Forum for Local Clergy

Washington & Jefferson College's Combat Stress Intervention program (CSI) is hosting an educational forum for local clergy this Saturday to assist those who could be a religious resource for veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress following military deployment.

“We are hoping to reach all denominations with the understanding that a lot of veterans look for answers to their spiritual dilemmas,” said Michael Crabtree, professor of psychology. “We see that churches are an important support service for the community and this is our opportunity to reach people in need.”

The meeting, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Rossin Campus Center Ballroom, is free and open to clergy in Washington and Greene counties.

Reservations are requested.

W&J’s CSI initiative is a four-year, Department of Defense-funded research project investigating incidence of combat stress in members of the Guard and Reserve from southwestern PA who have returned home after combat.

The research also involves identifying barriers to healthcare and the role of stigma for service members seeking healthcare for post-deployment difficulties.

CSIP has been focusing on groups of people who could be “gatekeepers of information” for those guard and reservists in need of help, according to Crabtree. Those areas have included—in addition to clergy—teachers, medical doctors and business professionals.

CSIP presented a similar community education program earlier to Presbyterian church representatives, Crabtree said.

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Interested individuals can call 724-503-1001 (ext. 6067) and for more information, visit www.copingaftercombat.com.