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NAMI Collier County:

Providing a Roadmap to Recovery

Behind the Scenes at Project HELP:
Enhancing Sexual Assault Advocacy & Therapy through Diverse Strategies

n the heart of Collier County lies of sexual assault advocacy, providing survivors with immediate
a beacon of hope and support for access to support and resources in times of crisis. Project HELP’s
Ivictims of trauma and violence. team, including volunteers, undergo rigorous training to effectively
Project HELP works with dignity and respond to helpline calls, offering empathetic listening, safety
compassion to ease the pain of those planning and information about available services. Other innovative
affected by rape, violence, crime or loss strategies include the use of therapy dogs, support groups, Shy Wolf
of a loved one due to a crime. Project Sanctuary Support, team building and self-care initiatives all of
HELP is more than just an advocacy which play an integral role in healing and justice.
and therapy center; it’s a lifeline for The use of therapy dogs has increasingly become valued in the
individuals navigating the aftermath of realm of trauma healing. Project HELP’s therapy dog—Cooper is
a crisis. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team works tirelessly, not a specifically trained canine that offers a unique form of support,
only to provide essential services, but also to continually evolve, providing comfort, companionship, and a sense of safety to
educate, and empower both themselves and the community they survivors as they navigate their trauma. The presence of Cooper
serve—your community. can help reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and create a supportive
At the core of Project HELP’s mission is the commitment environment where survivors feel empowered to share their
to ongoing education and training, a crucial aspect of this the experiences and access the plethora of resources available to them—
Continual Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Training, which resources such as Shy Wolf Sanctuary. Project HELP has partnered
equips staff with the skills to effectively support survivors in with Shy Wolf Sanctuary in their Healing Hearts Program. The
managing emotions and developing healthy coping mechanisms. sanctuary provides a nurturing environment where survivors
This weekly training ensures that every interaction is guided by can engage with rescued wolves and wolfdogs, experiencing the
evidence-based practices, fostering a therapeutic environment profound healing power of interspecies connections. Furthermore,
conducive to healing. Staying abreast of therapeutic techniques support groups offer survivors the opportunity to connect with
and advancements is paramount to Project HELP’s commitment others who have experienced similar trauma, fostering a sense of
to excellence. The team engages in continuous learning community, validation and understanding. Through sharing stories,
opportunities, attending workshops, seminars, and conferences to offering mutual support, and learning coping strategies together,
integrate skills such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization survivors can find solace and empowerment in the company of
and Reprocessing) Therapy. EMDR is a powerful tool in the peers.
arsenal of sexual assault advocacy. This evidence-based therapy Equally vital is team building and self-care. Project HELP
helps victims process traumatic memories and associated fosters a strong sense of camaraderie, mutual respect and
emotions by facilitating bilateral stimulation, often through eye collaboration among staff; these activities enhance communication,
movements or taps. EMDR Therapy can empower survivors to problem solving skills and overall team dynamics. A cohesive and
reclaim control over their lives and move forward with resilience supportive team is better equipped to provide high quality service to
and strength. survivors and navigate challenges. Together, Project HELP is paving
Project HELP has embraced innovative strategies to address the way for a future where survivors can reclaim their voices, rebuild
the diverse needs of survivors which include 24/7 Sexual Assault their lives and advocate a world free form sexual violence.
Crisis HELPline training. Helpline training is a cornerstone

Life in Naples | April 2024 43