A Light of Healing: Brave’s Journey in Supporting First Responders & Veterans

“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” — Psalm 147:3

At Brave, our hearts burn with a steadfast mission: to walk alongside those who have borne burdens beyond imagination—our first responders and veterans. In their service, they carry not just the weight of duty, but often the unseen wounds of trauma. We believe in the power of God’s healing love and the promise of restoration for the weary soul.

One of the most encouraging examples of real progress in trauma recovery is Deer Hollow, a trailblazing center in Draper, Utah, that has become a beacon of comprehensive trauma and PTSD treatment. Specializing in trauma-focused care, Deer Hollow addresses addiction at its source through a five-level step-down care model, which ensures both continuity of support and long-term success. Their approach combines advanced evidence-based therapies such as EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and schema therapy, all designed to heal both the heart and mind. Recovery is further strengthened by their integration of wellness practices, including Mind-Body Bridging, shame-resilience, self-compassion, and radical acceptance. These tools not only restore function but help individuals rebuild dignity, peace, and identity.

Deer Hollow’s commitment to excellence is clear in their accreditations and reputation. They are recognized by The Joint Commission and the state mental health department, affirming their high standards of care and accountability. Their facilities combine serene mountain settings with 24/7 clinical support, and they also provide telehealth options to reach even more individuals in need. The fruit of this dedication is seen in countless testimonies of patients who share how they have found hope again, rediscovered peace, and reclaimed their God-given purpose in life.

At Brave, we are deeply inspired by the transformational work of places like Deer Hollow. Our calling is not to replicate, but to extend God’s love and restoration in ways that are uniquely centered on the needs of first responders and veterans. We envision safe, faith-infused therapy settings that honor both spiritual and emotional healing. We seek to provide trauma-responsive programs that reflect the holistic excellence of Deer Hollow while grounding them in the eternal hope of Christ. Our mission is strengthened by outreach and peer support that speaks directly to the experiences of those who have served in uniform. At the center of it all is stewardship of grace, ensuring that every person who comes to us knows they are seen, heard, and loved by God.

To those standing at the crossroads of pain and redemption, know this: you are not abandoned. Brave exists to walk with you, offering Christ-centered care that meets you where you are and lifts you toward wholeness. Scripture reminds us in Romans 12:12 to “rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” Through Brave, we lean into that promise, bringing hope, steadfast presence, and prayerful encouragement to the heroes who need healing most.

Authored by BRAVE Together Founder, Matt Thompson, Washington State