Free Crisis Counseling for Wildfire Survivors

AUSTIN — Texans who survived the recent wildfires – or saw neighbors or family experience loss – can be experiencing post-disaster stress that is as real as the destruction itself. Because of this, free crisis counseling is available to Texans in the 23 counties designated for Individual Assistance under the major disaster declaration. The program, funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and administered by the Texas Department of State Health Services (TDSHS), is open to any child or adult who is experiencing disaster-related stress.

“FEMA funds this program after major disasters because counseling can help people understand that their emotional reactions to the disaster, such as grief, frustration, anger and fear, are normal,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Kevin L. Hannes of FEMA. “We know that the right support and coping skills can help most survivors pick up the pieces and go on with their lives.” Trained counselors are provided by the network of state Community Mental Health Centers. Calls to the crisis lines are free of charge, as are face-to-face follow-up sessions for adults and children whose needs cannot be fully served through phone counseling.

Here’s a rundown of services available in East Texas:

· Anderson County, ACCESS Anderson Cherokee Community Enrichment Services, crisis line 800-621-1693
· Cass, Gregg, Harrison, Marion, Rusk and Upshur Counties, Community Healthcore, crisis line 800-832-1009
· Henderson and Smith Counties, Andrews Center Behavioral Healthcare System, crisis line 877-934-2131
· Houston County, Burke Center, crisis line 800-392-8343