Gulf Coast Medical Center

LEE HEALTH | FORT MYERS, FL

Lee Health’s Gulf Coast Medical Center offers comprehensive trauma care to the communities of Southwest Florida. Lee Health’s comprehensive trauma services provide 24/7 critical care services from trauma-trained professionals. Once patients are stabilized, outreach services can provide additional support and improve outcomes for trauma patients and their caregivers. Patient and caregiver support provided by Trauma Services fosters emotional health and wellness. These services include resource linkage, support groups, peer mentors and ambassadors. Lee Health’s Trauma Center also provides resources to the community through Injury Prevention and Education. Programs include Falls Prevention (Step Smart), High Risk Driver, Sports Injury Prevention and Stop the Bleed. Lee Health’s wrap around services provides exceptional care to the community from injury prevention to recovery.

TRAUMA SURVIVOR NETWORK COORDINATOR

Carolyn Vickery, LCSW-QS, ACM-SW

[email protected]

239-343-1613

13685 Doctors Way, Suite 140, Fort Myers, FL 33912

Snack & Chat

Support Groups

Peer Mentors

Trauma Ambassadors

Therapy Dog Visits

Resources

NextSteps

Community Events

Snack & Chat

You are invited to connect with the Trauma Survivor Network team for a casual and supportive space. Our TSN Coordinator and peer mentors will be available to offer resources and guidance through the Trauma Survivors Network. This is for current trauma survivors and their family members that are admitted to the hospital.

This occurs every Tuesday from 3:00pm-4:00pm and every Thursday from 2:00pm-3:00pm in the Trauma ICU/Stepdown Family Waiting Room.

Complimentary snacks and water will be provided.

Support Groups

Click the links below to learn more about each of our support groups.

Trauma Survivors

Join us for a comforting and understanding space for those navigating life after a traumatic injury. We recognize that adjusting can be challenging, and our group offers a safe environment to share your experiences and find fellowship with others.

This support group is designed for individuals that have experienced a traumatic event such as a motor vehicle crash. If you have questions regarding eligibility for this support group please reach out to Carolyn Vickery at [email protected].

Come connect with others who understand your journey. We look forward to supporting you!

This group meets in person from 6:00pm-7:30pm on the first Wednesday of each month.

Please register here.

Brain Injury Recovery Warriors of Southwest Florida

Join us for a supportive gathering designed for young adults navigating life after a brain injury. We understand the challenges and changes that come with recovery, and our group offers comfort, understanding, and community.

This is a safe space to share experiences and connect with others in similar situations as you navigate recovery and young adulthood in SWFL. This group is for survivors ages 18-35 and for individuals that have acquired a traumatic brain injury through a traumatic event such as a motor vehicle crash. If you have any questions regarding eligibility please reach out to Carolyn Vickery at [email protected].

This group meets in person from 6:00pm-7:30pm on the second Wednesday of each month.

Please register here .

Caregivers

Join us for a supportive space specifically for caregivers of individuals who have experienced a traumatic accident (for example a motor vehicle crash). Share your experiences, find comfort, and connect with others who understand the unique challenges you face. If you have any questions regarding eligibility for this support group please reach out to Carolyn Vickery at [email protected].

We look forward to fostering a community of understanding and support.

This group meets in person from 6:00pm-7:30pm on the third Wednesday of each month.

Please register here.

TBI Survivors Empowerment Group

Join us to connect with others who understand your journey and find support in a compassionate environment. This group is for any individual with a traumatic brain injury whose traumatic brain injury was acquired through a traumatic event, for example a motor vehicle crash. If you have any questions regarding eligibility for this group please reach out to Carolyn Vickery at [email protected].

Whether you are seeking understanding or simply a space to share, you are not alone. We look forward to welcoming you.

This group meets in person on the fourth Wednesday of the month, with the exception of November and December, from 6:00pm-7:30pm.

Please register here.

TSN National Support Groups

Survivor Support Group

The Trauma Survivors Network offers a virtual support that is hosted three times a month on the 2nd (3:30pm ET), 3rd (9pm ET), and 4th (5:30pm ET) Wednesday of the month. You can join by using your computer, tablet, or phone. To register for an upcoming virtual support group, click this link.

These support groups meet virtually on the 2nd, 3rd, 4th Wednesday of each month, with the exception of November and December. Questions can be sent to [email protected]

Family and Caregiver Support Group

The Trauma Survivors Network offers a virtual support group once a month for family, friends, and caregivers of trauma survivors of physical injury. You can join by using your computer, tablet, or phone. To register for an upcoming virtual support group, click this link.

This support group meets virtually on the first Wednesday of each month at 1:00pm eastern time. Questions can be sent to [email protected].

Monthly Grief Support Group

Join us for a supportive hour dedicated to those navigating grief. This monthly gathering provides a compassionate space for sharing, listening, and healing together.

This group meets once a month at both Lee Health’s Coconut Point Healthy Life Center and at Cape Coral Hospital.

Call 239-468-0050 to register and get more information on dates, times, and location.

Amputee Support Group

Join us and connect with others who have had similar experiences and challenges.

Anyone who has been affected by an amputation can join this support group.

These meetings are held both in person and virtually. Address for in person attendees is Encompass Health Cape Coral, 1730 NE Pine Island Road, Cape Coral, Florida 33909. These meetings occur every third Tuesday at 4:00pm.

If you have any questions or need the virtual link, please contact: [email protected].

Peer Mentorship

Peer mentors have the unique ability to understand what another survivor may have been through. They provide encouragement, guidance, and sometimes advice to other survivors.

If you would like to be connected with a peer mentor, or are interested in being a peer mentor, please contact the Trauma Survivor Network Coordinator, Carolyn Vickery, at [email protected].

Nichole

At 29 years old Nichole became a patient of Gulf Coast Hospital where she resided in the Gulf Coast Trauma Center for about two months in 2024. She survived a boating accident that resulted in a very rare hemi-pelvectomy amputation- the removal of her left leg and part of her pelvis. Overwhelmed by the support she received from not only family and friends, but the Gulf Coast Trauma team, Nichole has chosen to give back by guiding new patients through their own trauma and healing process.

Nichole lives in Pine Island, Florida and loves boating, fishing, kayaking, shallow water diving, and all things nature. She hopes to inspire others by continuing to do the things she loves and push the boundaries of her amputation. One of her biggest upcoming goals is to continue her love for extreme sports and become the first hemi-pelvectomy to snowboard.

Originally from Indiana and a graduate from Purdue University, Nichole moved to Florida as a Sales Director for assisted living and memory care communities. Her work experience provides a familiar understanding of the hospital and rehabilitation process and helps guide families to the proper resources to give comfort through their transition from the trauma team to the next steps. She hopes to share her experiences and offer reassurance to those just starting their journey, helping them find strength, happiness, and success in recovery.

Joe

Joe is a 62-year-old former trauma patient who is currently a Lee Health volunteer who visits amputees. He is a Patient Mentor and a Certified Peer Visitor with the Amputee Coalition (non-profit). He is trained to educate, support, and empower people in our community who have experienced limb loss or will in the future. He is currently employed full-time by AECOM, an international Construction Engineering and Inspection firm, and is close to retirement having been in this field since 1981.

Joe also serves as 2nd Lt USAF Auxiliary Civil Air Patrol, Charlotte County Squadron, Florida Wing.
Joe’s own experience with trauma began with a skydiving accident in November of 2016. He broke his back at T-12, various bones, and the left foot. For 6 months, Joe tried to save his leg. He was non-load bearing on the left leg, had a PICC line for Vancomycin, wound vacs, atrophy, RSD syndrome and more.

During a second opinion visit with Dr. Casola, DO Lee Health, Joe asked if he could ever run again with the left leg and the doctor said flatly “no”, however, if he had the amputation perhaps, he could. Surgery was scheduled right away in mid-May 2017 and the rest is history. Joe ran a 45-minute 5k Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving the same year and hasn’t stopped since. It’s this wide range of personal experience, which helps him understand and empathize with patient’s concerns, fears, and uncertainty.

He brings hope and encouragement to the patients he visits. Not only does Joe find sharing his story with others rewarding, but it has also helped him throughout his own healing journey.

Joe returned to his passion of skydiving and flying wingsuits exactly one year after his accident. He resumed all his previous activities of scuba diving, bicycling, running, hiking, motorcycling, and flying.

His advice… set goals, plan, execute and achieve them. It’s going to be hard, know that. If it were easy, everyone would be doing it. You’ll never know unless you go, unless you try…so try.

It’s no longer about what you can’t do, it’s about what you can do.
~~life is good~~ ~~live life~~

Linda

I have been a left above-knee amputee (LAKA) since June 2018. In 2019, I became a Lee Trauma Mentor to help new amputees navigate life after amputation. The guidance and support I received from my own mentor were invaluable, and I strive to offer the same to others on their journey.

Dennis

I served in the US Navy in the Anti-Submarine Warfare realm from 1973-1977. After my service, I became a YMCA certified SCUBA Instructor and SCUBA ACCIDENT MANAGEMENT Instructor in Key West and also lived and taught SCUBA in the Caribbean for several years in Antigua and Barbuda, West Indies. Next, I managed a bread and breakfast in Key West and became an AFAA Certified Fitness Instructor. Moved to Ft Myers in 1996, where my next triple role was Rehab Tech, Orthopedic Technician, and Fitness Instructor at Lee Health System. There, I spent many hours working with patients, assisting the Physical Therapists and the nurses. I was one of the last Orthotechs (orthotechs applied casts, splints, and traction) in the Lee Health System. In 2020 , after retiring from the hospital, I was T-boned in an horrific motor vehicle accident, and nearly lost my life. I fought my way back with an awesome team of doctors, nurses, and therapists, and I am filled with joy and gratitude for all that were involved in my comeback!! And it is a pleasure being able to mentor fellow trauma survivors and support them in their own journey through the process. Being able to be heard is really important to many patients, and we are there to listen, and perhaps understand what they are experiencing, and to offer support and encouragement.

Laura

Laura is a 66-year-old former trauma patient of Gulf Coast Hospital who was hit by a drunk driver and survived a five-car accident. She is currently a volunteer with Lee Health Trauma. She has chosen to give back by guiding new patients through her own trauma experiences and healing process.
Laura lives in Cape Coral and is working on getting her life back to normal after being in and out of hospitals for 4 1/2 years. She hopes to inspire others by continuing to do the things she loves to do like kayaking, Zumba, spin, boating, and dining out. She is a people person and loves helping others and hopes to share her experiences to help others.

Steve

Steve is a 70 year old former trauma patient at Gulf Coast Medical Center. He and his wife moved from New Hampshire to Florida in late 2018 and he retired from his job as a regional sales manager in the gear manufacturing industry at the end of 2019. He was looking forward to enjoying many of the activities the warm Florida weather offered. Being an avid cyclist, he rode fifteen thousand miles in 2020 – 2023, often riding 60+ miles a day. He also loved playing pickleball and found it to be an excellent way to make friends in their new neighborhood.

Steve was riding his bicycle in November of 2023 when he was hit broadside by an SUV at a four way stop. He spent 11 days in the trauma center suffering from three broken bones in his neck, three burst discs in his neck, a broken and displaced wrist and a torn rotator cuff requiring reverse shoulder replacement surgery. He had a plate in his neck and another plate in the wrist. After an infection required the plate in the neck to be removed, he spent another 10 days at Lee Memorial Hospital followed by 63 straight days of antibiotic infusions and a total of six months in a cervical collar.

Steve goes to the gym most days and has recently been able to return to some low key games with friends. Progress has been slow and steady over time.

The doctors, nurses and other staff at GCMC were instrumental in Steve’s initial recovery and he credits them with putting him on the path to how far he has been able to come. While 100% return to normal activity is out of reach, he has come much farther than he ever anticipated. He feels compelled to give back in order to help others who may be suffering from similar trauma related difficulties.

Trauma Ambassadors

Our trauma ambassadors are a group of dedicated volunteers that round on patients and their families on the trauma stepdown and trauma PCU units. They provide support to patients and their families as they begin to navigate their recovery.

If you would like to meet with one of our trauma ambassadors while you are in the hospital please contact the Trauma Survivor Network Coordinator, Carolyn Vickery, at [email protected].

Bob

I obtained my BS degree in the biological sciences. During my senior year I concurrently enrolled in a Nuclear Medicine Technology program. Upon graduation and passing two national registries I was hired as a staff tech. After six months As a staff tech the Medical Director of the Nuclear Medicine offered me the position of Department Manager at a 500 bed teaching hospital where he was also the Medical Director of Nuclear Medicine.

After nearly three years in the clinical setting I was offered a position in sales by a major international company. I Worked my way up the corporate ladder and held various managerial positions such as Regional Sales Manager, National Account Executive and Director of Sales in the area of diagnostic imaging.

In my spare time (ha ha!) I went through an EMT training and became a volunteer EMT. I eventually held the position Of EMS Brigade Chief with the local EMS squad. Upon leaving the corporate environment I did a two-year stint as A shift supervisor in Atlantic City, NJ. Call volume at that time averaged around 36,000 EMS calls annually.

As an EMT I personally responded to somewhere in the neighborhood of 7,000 + emergency 911 calls

Gary

After his military service, Gary went on to earn a BS degree and an MBA in Pharmaceutical Marketing. He then spent over 40 years in the pharmaceutical industry, ending his career in his own business.

He started his volunteering soon after he graduated from college. He was involved in the Jaycees, President of a Substance Abuse Council, and a volunteer EMT.

Soon after moving to Florida, with his wife and 3 children, he became a volunteer at the Gulf Coast Medical Center. Currently, he on the Lee Health Foundation Board, a member of the Lee Health Quality & Safety Council, Chair of the Patient and Family Advisory Council, President of the Gulf Coast Auxiliary, a member of the Florida Hospital Association Medication Communication Workgroup, and a Trauma Ambassador.

Pam

Pam has spent her entire career in the health care field. During her first 12 years in her career she served as an RN in Critical Care, ED/Trauma settings.

She continued her education receiving her Advanced Nurse Practice degree & began working in Private Practice for the next few years. She completed her career caring for& treating veterans for the next 26 years at Miami VA Hospital.

Frank

Frank earned his Bachelor of Science from Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) in 1996. He earned his Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Army–Fayetteville State University MSW Program in 2010. Frank has maintained his Board-Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work since 2013.

Frank has had a diverse career working in many clinical and administrative settings. He is very eager to support the community as a trauma ambassador.

Bob

Gary

Pam

Frank

Therapy Dog Visits

Ben and Max are available for therapy dog visits seasonally (typically January through May) on the trauma units. Read Ben’s story below!

If you are interested in a therapy dog visit, please reach out to the Trauma Survivor Network Coordinator, Carolyn Vickery, at [email protected].

Ben’s Story

After High School, I went to Butler University as a direct admit to their School of Pharmacy. After one year, I quickly realized that I disliked staying in one place and doing the same task over and over. I transferred to Purdue University to study Selling and Sales Management. My older brother also attended Purdue and he did quite the sales job getting me to transfer. I graduated in 2016 with my BS degree, and also a second degree in Entrepreneurship.

After graduation, I moved to Raleigh North Carolina to enjoy the great outdoors and my first professional job selling chemicals. While visiting a fraternity brother in South Carolina, and walking back to his apartment, I was struck by an SUV going 35 mph. I was rushed to the hospital unconscious.

I suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) which left me in a coma for 9 days, and then a minimally conscious state for about 6 months, which means I could not talk, walk, or really know what was going on around me. I am told I had a Therapy dog visit which really lifted my family’s spirits in that dark time.

Two weeks prior to my accident I had purchased a puppy. After hearing about the therapy dog visiting me, I decided to get my puppy certified as a Therapy dog. We became certified in April 2018 and now spend many hours bringing smiles to hospital patients and staff.

As part of my on-going Therapy, I was introduced to an art therapist at an Indianapolis hospital. Being somewhat creative growing up, I realized my time with the therapist was emotionally helpful, and it also sparked my creative side for painting! I am very fond of bright colors, especially animals.

We all have those less than happy days, no matter how hard we try. Feeling a part of something big is very uplifting. I enjoy most serving others and helping others.

Resources

Community Resources

Adaptive Sports Offered in Lee County

https://www.leegov.com/parks/programs/special-needs/adaptive-sports

Brooks Rehab

https://brooksrehab.org/

Center for Independent Living

https://www.cilgulfcoastflorida.org/

The Center strives to enhance the lives of people with disabilities, regardless of age, in Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Glades and Henry counties.

Clinics Can Help

clinicscanhelp.org

Located in Palm Beach, Florida; Clinics Can Help connects people to safe, low-cost medical equipment in a supportive circle of care. Our model of organized recycling advances health equity by ensuring every child and adult can access the supplies they need for healthy recovery, protection from injury, and the mobility, independence and dignity to sustain a quality level of life.

Community Care for the Elderly (CCE) Program

https://elderaffairs.org/programs-services/caregiving/community-care-for-the-elderly-cce-program/

Elder Helpline at 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963-5337)

Disability Rights Florida

https://disabilityrightsflorida.org/

Disability Rights Florida is a nonprofit organization that provides legal advocacy and rights protection for adults and children with a wide range of disabilities.

Senior Friendship Center

https://friendshipcenters.org/

Agency focused on health, wellness, social engagement, caregiving and support in aging.

Shepard Center

https://www.shepherd.org/

Located in Atlanta, Georgia, Shepherd Center is a private, not-for-profit hospital specializing in medical treatment, research and rehabilitation for people with spinal cord injury, brain injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, spine and chronic pain, and other neuromuscular conditions.

Social Security Administration

https://www.ssa.gov/

Social Security Disability Resource Center

https://www.ssdrc.com/

United Way

https://unitedwaylee.org/need-help/

United Way 211 is a free 24-hour non-emergency line that helps people navigate their way through human and social service agencies in Lee, Hendry, and Glades counties.

U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development

https://resources.hud.gov/

Housing support

Brain Injury Support

Brain Injury Florida

https://www.braininjuryfl.org/

Brain Injury Florida’s purpose is to improve the quality of life for residents of the state of Florida who have sustained an acquired brain injury by promoting effective awareness, education, outreach, treatment, prevention, advocacy, and support.

Brain Injury Resource Guide

https://www.braininjuryfl.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/BI-Resource-Guide-FLBSCIP-1.pdf

BrainLine

https://www.brainline.org/

All about brain injury and PTSD

Hope After Head Injury

https://hopeafterheadinjury.com/

Online community for survivors, caregivers, and family members.

Amputee Support

Amputee Coalition

https://www.amputee-coalition.org/

Amputee Coalition Virtual Support Groups

https://amputee-coalition.org/service/find-a-support-group/

Click on the link to connect with a virtual support group through the amputee coalition. Their support groups include groups for young adults and caregivers.

Amputation Foundation

https://amputationfoundation.org/

Our mission is simple: to enhance the lives of amputees by offering comprehensive support, practical resources, and opportunities for personal growth and community connection. Whether you’re an amputee, a caregiver, or a medical professional, we’re here to help.

Amputee Resource Director

https://livingwithamplitude.com/amputee-community-resource-directory/ Our

Our amputee resource directory lists hundreds of organizations that offer various types of resources for amputees. This searchable, user-friendly database includes contact information, website links, and descriptions to help you easily find resources for amputees. Whether you’re a new amputee or have been living with limb loss for years, our amputee resource directory can help you find support for prosthetic care, social connection, healthcare, amputee rehab, kids’ programming, and more.

Hanger Clinical AMPOWER

https://hangerclinic.com/patients/emotional-support/

Beyond clinical care, we connect people to one another through AMPOWER®, a peer-to-peer support program for people with limb loss or limb difference.

Spinal Cord Injury Support

North American Spinal Cord Injury Consortium

https://nascic.org/membership/

NASCIC is a free membership to help those suffering from an SCI stay up to date on new products, clinical trials, and advocacy for change.

Paralyzed Veterans of America Florida Chapter

https://www.pvaflorida.org/

Spinal Cord Injury Resource Guide

https://bscipresourcecenter.org/files/SCIResourceGuide.pdf

Caregiver Support

Caregiver Action Network

https://www.caregiveraction.org/

A non-profit organization providing education, peer support, and resources to family caregivers across the country free of charge.

Family Caregiver Alliance

https://www.caregiver.org/

Services, education programs, and resources designed with caregivers’ needs in mind and offer support, tailored information, and tools to manage the complex demands of caregiving.

VA Caregiver Support Program

https://www.caregiver.va.gov/support/New_CSC_Page.asp

The Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) Caregiver Support Program (CSP) offers clinical services to caregivers of eligible and covered Veterans enrolled in the VA health care system. The program’s mission is to promote the health and well-being of family caregivers who care for our Nation’s Veterans, through education, resources, support, and services.

Area Agency on Aging

https://aaaswfl.org/caregiver-support/

The Area Agency on Aging in Southwest Florida offers caregiver support programs to anyone who is the primary caregiver for an adult who is 60 years of age or older, or for adults who are 60 years of age or older and are the primary caregiver for a person of any age.

Support for Individuals Affected by Violence

Abuse Counseling and Treatment, Inc.

https://actabuse.com/

Abuse Counseling and Treatment, Inc. (ACT) is a private, not-for-profit agency committed to serving victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.

24 Hour Helpline: (239) 939-3112

Office for Victims of Crime

https://ovc.ojp.gov/help-for-victims/overview#overview

The Florida Attorney General’s Division of Victim Services

https://www.myfloridalegal.com/crime-victims-services/crime-victims-services

Victims wishing to apply for assistance, check on the status of their applications, or in need of any other assistance can contact the division toll free from anywhere in the United States. The toll-free number is 1-800-226-6667.

Victim Connect Resource Center

https://victimconnect.org/

NCVC has operated two hotlines, VictimConnect Resource Center and DC Victim Hotline, since 2015. Both programs provide phone, chat, and text-based services to all victims of crime. Visitors to the hotlines can receive strength-based and trauma-informed services and referrals in over 200 languages. NCVC’s Victim Assistance Specialists receive extensive training and mentoring to provide emotional support, information, and referrals that empower visitors as they navigate the physical, emotional, legal, and financial consequences of crime.

Call or Text 1-855-484-2846.

Mental Health Support

The Center for Progress and Excellent Inc.

https://progressandexcellence.com/

The Mobile Crisis Hotline is answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – (844) 395-4432 CPE offers mental health services regardless of insurance status.

988 Lifeline Chat and Text

https://988lifeline.org/chat/

988 Lifeline Chat and Text connects you with caring crisis counselors for emotional support. Call or text 988 to speak with someone.

Crisis Text Line

https://www.crisistextline.org/

Free 24/7 crisis support. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a volunteer crisis counselor.

Veterans Crisis Line

https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/

Dial 988 and Press 1 or text 838255 for 27/7 confidential crisis support. You do not need to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to connect to the veterans crisis line.

Behavioral Health Resource Guide

https://intranet.leehealth.org/documents/780297784/783783794/Behavioral+Health+Division_Resource+Guide.pdf/79f888d5-a0e3-e549-b4a8-72b7615167b5?t=1742310027007

Lee Behavioral Health Services

https://www.leehealth.org/our-services/behavioral-health?utm_source=local-listing&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=website-link

People who need behavioral health services represent every group you can imagine — family and friends, colleagues and co-workers, neighbors and children. Leading with compassion, our mental health experts help you identify the cause of anxiety, depression, or mood disorders while providing open-minded treatment that controls symptoms and improves your quality of life.

NAMI-National Alliance on Mental Illness

https://namilee.org/

NAMI of Lee, Charlotte and Hendry Counties is an organization of families, friends and individuals whose lives have been affected by mental illness. Together, we advocate for better lives for those individuals who have a mental illness.

Park Royal Behavioral Health Services

https://www.parkroyalhospital.com/

Park Royal offers a full continuum of care for individuals 18 years of age or older who are struggling with mental health & substance abuse issues.

Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)

https://www.adaa.org/

The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) is dedicated to the prevention, treatment, and cure of anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive, and trauma-related disorders through education, practice, and research. It helps people understand the disorders and educates them about scientifically supported treatments so they can make informed decisions. It also supports professionals who provide treatment and conduct research.

Insight Timer Guided Meditation App

https://insighttimer.com/

Free guided meditation app for download to your device.

Mental Health America

https://www.mhanational.org/

Mental Health America (MHA) – founded in 1909 – is the nation’s leading community-based nonprofit dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and to promoting the overall mental health of all Americans.

National Center for PTSD

https://www.ptsd.va.gov/

A national resource for trauma survivors, which includes information about PTSD, resources such as the PTSD Coach Online, and videos from other survivors and professionals.

Psychology Today – Mental Health Provider Referral Search

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us

Search for mental health provider referrals based on location, insurance, age, type of therapy, language, etc.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA) – Treatment Locator

https://www.samhsa.gov/find-treatment

SAMHSA’s mission is to lead public health and service delivery efforts that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and provide treatments and supports to foster recovery while ensuring equitable access and better outcomes. Use this resource to find local treatment and support.

Hurricane Resources

Special Needs Registry

The Special Medical Needs Shelter will be open for those with medical needs that require electricity, such as oxygen dependence, dialysis, ventilators, nebulizers, etc.

You must pre-register for the Special Medical Needs Shelter here.

Please visit this website for more information for Lee County.

Florida Hurricane Shelters

The links provided are your local shelter information pages. The information may vary from county to county.

Please visit this website for more information on Lee County Shelters.

Please visit this website for more information on Charlotte County Shelters.

Please visit this website for information on shelters in all counties in Florida.

Know Your Evacuation Zone

Hurricane evacuation zones are no longer referenced by storm category, but are now named by hurricane surge evacuation zones: A, B, C, D and E.

Find My Evacuation Zone (click on the magnifying glass to enter your address).

Make your written Emergency Plan.

Generator Safety

If you are using a generator because you have lost power, make sure you do so safely! Improperly using a generator can result in loss of life or property.

Please visit this website for safety tips.

State Assistance Information Line

The State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) is a toll-free hotline activated at the time of an emergency to provide an additional resource for those in Florida to receive accurate and up-to-date information regarding an emergency or disaster situation impacting the State of Florida.

The SAIL hotline is: 1-800-342-3557

The SAIL hotline is only operational during an emergency event; at all other times, a recorded message with general information about the hotline is available.

Pediatric Resources

After The Injury

https://www.aftertheinjury.org

This is an interactive website that helps caregivers understand their child’s reactions to injury and learn what they can do to help support their child’s coping. Also available in Spanish.

Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida

https://www.cac-swfl.org/

Founded in 1981, the mission of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida is to create a safe and nurturing space for children affected by abuse and neglect, where they share their stories, heal, and thrive with comprehensive support.

Child Mind Institute

https://childmind.org/resources/

The Child Mind Institute is an independent, national nonprofit dedicated to transforming the lives of children and families struggling with mental health and learning disorders. The Child Mind Institute has prepared free trauma resources to aid parents, educators, and other adults in talking to children and adolescents about potentially traumatic events and identifying those who might benefit from more focused professional attention.

Coping Books for Children with Spinal Cord Injuries

https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/coping-books-for-children-with-spinal-cord-injuries

Explaining the injury to your child can feel daunting. But the right book offers hope, information, and reassurance that you aren’t alone. Check out these supportive, compassionate, and entertaining books for children with spinal cord injuries.

Health Care Toolbox

healthcaretoolbox.org

The Center’s mission is to reduce pediatric medical traumatic stress through promoting trauma-informed healthcare, disseminating evidence-based practices and screening tools to pediatric healthcare providers, training providers to recognize and address traumatic stress in children. We have resources for patients and families as well as healthcare professionals on pediatric medical traumatic stress and trauma informed care.

National Alliance for Children’s Grief

https://nacg.org/

If you are supporting a child who is grieving, we are here to connect you to resources and local support. The alliance is a national organization of professionals dedicated to supporting children and the networks and communities surrounding them.

National Child Traumatic Stress Network

https://www.nctsn.org/audiences/families-and-caregivers

The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) was created by Congress in 2000 as part of the Children’s Health Act to raise the standard of care and increase access to services for children and families who experience or witness traumatic events. This unique network of frontline providers, family members, researchers, and national partners is committed to changing the course of children’s lives by improving their care and moving scientific gains quickly into practice across the U.S.

Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide

http://www.sptsusa.org/

The mission of the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide is to reduce the number of youth suicides and attempted suicides by encouraging public awareness through the development and promotion of educational training programs.

The Trevor Project

https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

Founded in 1998 by the creators of the Academy Award®-winning short film TREVOR, The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) young people ages 13-24.

Teen Line

https://www.teenline.org/

TEEN LINE was created in 1980 by a group of mental health professionals who, through their personal work with teenagers, realized that a more inclusive approach to adolescent mental health was needed. After extensive research and consultation, TEEN LINE – a teen-to-teen hotline with community outreach services – was born. Call 1-800-852-8336 or Text “TEEN” to 839863 for more information.

Valerie’s House

https://valerieshouse.org/

The mission of Valerie’s House is to help children and families work through the loss of a loved one together and go on to live fulfilling lives. Our vision is that No Child Will Grieve Alone.

National Resource List

NextSteps

The NextSteps program is a free, 6-week self-management course that emphasizes the vital role you play in your own recovery. Grounded in the principles of self-management, the program incorporates proven techniques to boost your confidence and sense of empowerment. NextSteps equips you with the skills needed to take an active role in managing both your health and your life. Learn more here.

Community Events

Click here to view the latest health and wellness events offered through Lee Health. Many of these events are free to attend.

Gulf Coast Medical Center

LEE HEALTH | FORT MYERS, FL

TRAUMA SURVIVOR NETWORK COORDINATOR

Carolyn Vickery, LCSW-QS, ACM-SW

Snack & Chat

Support Groups

Peer Mentors

Trauma Ambassadors

Therapy Dog Visits

Resources

NextSteps

Community Events

Snack & Chat

Support Groups

Trauma Survivors

Brain Injury Recovery Warriors of Southwest Florida

Caregivers

TBI Survivors Empowerment Group

TSN National Support Groups

Monthly Grief Support Group

Peer Mentorship

Nichole

Joe

Linda

Dennis

Laura

Steve

Trauma Ambassadors

Bob

Gary

Pam

Frank

Bob

Gary

Pam

Frank

Therapy Dog Visits

Ben’s Story

Resources

Community Resources

Brain Injury Support

Amputee Support

Spinal Cord Injury Support

Caregiver Support

Support for Individuals Affected by Violence

Mental Health Support

Hurricane Resources

Pediatric Resources

NextSteps

Community Events

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