Voice of Light: Piloting a visual arts psycho-social recovery program with Australian veterans and first responders

Military and emergency services personnel have an increased prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) compared to the general population. These populations also exhibit high dropout rates from traditional therapies as they may struggle to cope with their emotionally demanding nature. Therefore, providing military and emergency services personnel with alternative forms of therapy is beneficial to enhance engagement, comfort, and social connectedness, to help diffuse the emotionally demanding nature of interacting with trauma, preventing early termination of the therapy. The present study explored the acceptability and feasibility of the Voice of Light Program (VOLP). VOLP is a peer-facilitated, group psycho-social recovery program for military and emergency services personnel. Semi-structured interviews were conducted at the conclusion of the program to capture participants’ perceptions and experiences of the program. The data gathered from interviews was analysed using thematic analysis; five themes encompassing seven sub-themes regarding the acceptability and feasibility of the program were identified. These themes included creative and innovative outlet, comforting and safe environment, therapeutic elements, influence of the VOLP, and improvements for the future programs. The observations from this study regarding the need of military cultural competency in the development of the program and trauma-informed care in the content of the program, can be utilised for the development of an acceptable and feasible program for military and emergency services personnel, for future studies. • VOLP was highly valued for its innovative approach and supportive environment. • Understanding military cultural competency in program development is essential. • Creative-based skill acquisition with psychoeducation supported engagement. • Trauma-informed care in the content of the program is required.