Three Trees Newsletter - May 2026
Greetings as we welcome the month of May!
As spring settles in and the days grow warmer, May invites us to reflect on two deeply meaningful observances, Military Appreciation Month and Mental Health Awareness Month. This is a time to honor the courage and sacrifice of our service members, veterans, and military families, while also bringing attention to the importance of emotional and mental well-being.
Let’s Talk About Service & Mental Health
Military service often comes with unique and intense experiences. From long separations and frequent relocations to exposure to high-stress or life-threatening situations, these experiences can have lasting emotional and psychological effects.
While many service members demonstrate incredible strength and resilience, it is important to recognize that mental health challenges are common and valid responses to these experiences.
Some individuals in the military community may experience:
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Post-traumatic stress
• Difficulty adjusting to civilian life
• Sleep disturbances
• Hypervigilance or feeling constantly “on edge”
• Irritability or emotional withdrawal
• Feelings of isolation or disconnection
These are not signs of weakness. They are human responses to extraordinary circumstances.
For many, the challenges are not always visible. The transition home, the weight of responsibility, or the memories carried from service can be difficult to put into words. This can leave individuals feeling misunderstood or alone. If you or someone you care about has served and is struggling emotionally, please know that support is available and healing is possible.
Mental health care is a vital part of overall wellness. Therapy can provide a safe, supportive space to process experiences, rebuild a sense of identity, strengthen relationships, and develop tools for managing stress and emotions.
If May brings this topic close to home for you, consider it an invitation. Awareness opens the door, and support helps light the path forward.
Until next time Honor Their Service. Care for Your Mind. And Remember, we’re here to help you Just Keep Growing!
Warmly,
Three Trees Ccounseling Team
Check it Out!
Women's Betrayal Trauma Group
Betrayal is deeply isolating, but you don't have to carry the burden alone. Join a safe, supportive circle of women for an 8 week journey toward reclaiming your identity and
rebuilding self trust. Using principles of Internal Family Systems, we will explore the 8 C's of the true self: Clarity, Calm, Curiosity, Compassion, Courage, Connection, Creativity and Confidence as a roadmap for your healing. Through a blend of psychoeducation and shared experience, this group provides the opportunity to rediscover the resilient woman with.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please reach out to Kristen at kristen.rucker@threetreescounseling.com
Rest, Rejuvenate, and Relate
It’s my hope to help you connect with your family, your body, your community & support a great cause!
Memorial Day Benefit Concert
Nashville, TN
An impactful evening of live music featuring Velvet Rodeo, held in support of the Grunt Style Foundation. The event focuses on raising awareness for veteran suicide prevention, expanding access to mental health resources, and supporting advocacy efforts.
Three Trees Update!
We're Growing and Excited to Welcome our New Clinicians
Join us in welcoming Kristen Rucker, LMSW, and Amanda Rector, Clinical Intern, each bringing a thoughtful, compassionate approach to care and a deep commitment to supporting whole-person healing.
Kristen is a Licensed Master Social Worker with specialized training in trauma-informed care, including EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Her work is especially focused on helping individuals navigate trauma, PTSD, and relational challenges with depth, insight, and lasting support.
Amanda
is a Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate student who brings an integrative, trauma-informed approach to her work. She draws from modalities like IFS and ACT, with a strong focus on mind–body connection, supporting clients through stress, burnout, trauma, and life transitions; especially women, children, and families.
