Innovative Behavioral Health Initiatives
Fort Belvoir, Va. (April 14, 2025) – In a bold and timely response to the growing need for mental health support among healthcare professionals, the Alexander T. Augusta Military Medical Center (ATAMMC) has launched its inaugural behavioral health “Drop-In” Clinics. These clinics are designed to provide staff with a safe and informal environment for individual and group discussions, access to valuable resources, and techniques for reducing burnout while promoting overall organizational well-being.
Recognizing the profound impact of unique stressors on their workforce, this initiative aims to equip staff with efficient strategies to promote personal resilience and team cohesion. Maj. Said Bennani, Service Chief of the Adult Outpatient Behavioral Health Clinic, emphasized, “These sessions were designed to foster reflection and support during transitional periods. We believe these services are vital.”
The dedicated providers hosting these drop-in interventions focus on areas such as stress management, self-care, and organizational resiliency. By proactively offering emotional support and wellness strategies, ATAMMC aims to empower employees and enhance team cohesion.
Creating a Supportive Environment
The drop-in mental health interventions emphasize open communication, providing a welcoming space for employees to express themselves and access helpful resources. These informal discussions serve to reduce stress while strengthening team connections.
The first session took place in a common area designed for casual interactions, featuring therapy dogs to lighten the mood. A subsequent session at the DiLorenzo Pentagon Health Clinic engaged staff from various departments, highlighting the expansive reach of this initiative.
Maj. Bennani reiterated the importance of these efforts, stating, “If you are taking care of those providers, you’re ensuring a quality of care while helping to prevent burnout. It’s about more than the individual—it’s about sustaining the mission through empowered teams.”
A New Approach to Mental Health
Importantly, the drop-in clinics are not traditional therapy sessions but proactive opportunities for sharing experiences and cultivating a culture of support. Participants are encouraged to further utilize the resources provided for ongoing support.
Augusta Military Medical Center remains committed to enhancing mental health services for both staff and beneficiaries, reinforcing the belief that empowered teams translate into exemplary patient care. For more information regarding the Behavioral Health Drop-In Clinics and other resources, please contact the ATAMMC Behavioral Health department.
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