The Center for Relationship

Training and Recovery

Michael H. Borash, LPC, P.C. and Associates

Combat or Violence Related

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

The Center offers small group therapy for those individuals experiencing difficulties in their life.  These problems may be directly or indirectly related to service in a war zone or law enforcement related duties.  Nightmares, startle responses, emotional numbing or withdrawal, intrusive thoughts, distancing in relationships, drug and alcohol abuse, depression are not uncommon aspects of PTSD.  

Mike Borash led his first PTSD group for Vietnam Veterans in 1980.  He notes that the term PTSD had not as yet been used to describe the problems being experienced by returning combat veterans. He did discover, however, that placing these vets in a group with other vets created an immediate identification and a rapid bonding.  He observed that as the familiarity with the group context increased, the substantive nature of the sharing deepened.  Each group member eventually developed what is now termed a “coherent narrative”.  Putting the traumatic memories into words and speaking ones subjective truth with others who understood and supported the process created a rational perspective where only fragmented memories and repressed emotions existed.  

We encourage all vets, as well as law enforcement professionals, still being negatively impacted by exposure to extreme violence or highly stressful situations to seek skilled assistance in dealing with these most difficult memories, feelings and thoughts.  Scheduling an individual appointment for evaluation and possible group placement is the first step.  All counseling is confidential and surprisingly affordable.

Scheduling an individual appointment for evaluation and possible group placement is the first step.  

For more information or to book an appointment contact:

Colleen Hayes - 703-492-8939 or

Click here for Appointment Request Form