Category: News

In the aftermath of the devastating flooding at Camp Mystic, many families in our community are facing overwhelming emotions, from grief and fear to uncertainty and anxiety. Children and teens, in particular, may be struggling to process what has happened.

At Innova Recovery Center, we know that early support is key to helping young people navigate trauma in healthy, effective ways. As leaders in trauma treatment and as Texans committed to serving our neighbors, we are honored to offer free virtual group therapy sessions for Camp Mystic flood victims and their siblings, from kindergarten through 12th grade.

What These Groups Offer

Led by trauma-trained therapists, these virtual sessions provide a safe, nurturing space for kids and teens to:

• Begin processing their experiences
• Learn healthy coping skills to manage anxiety, fear, and grief
• Connect with peers who understand what they’re going through
• Build resilience through Crisis Intervention & Stress Management (CISM) tools

Whether your child is feeling anxious, withdrawn, or simply needs a safe place to talk, these groups are designed to meet them right where they are, with compassion and clinical care.

Group Details

Sessions are held virtually via secure telehealth every week at the following times, organized by age group to ensure appropriate support:

• K through 5th Grade:
  • Tuesday and Thursday
  • 10:00 AM
  • Starting July 15
• 6th through 12th Grade:
  • Wednesday and Friday
  • 12:00 PM
  • Starting July 16

Each session will be facilitated by licensed, trauma-focused therapists who are dedicated to helping children and teens start their healing journey in a safe and supportive environment.

How to Register

If your child or teen would benefit from participating in these free therapy groups, we encourage you to reach out to us immediately:

Call or Text: (210) 254-3618
Email: admin@innovarecoverycenter.com

We’re Here for You

These sessions are offered completely free of charge as part of Innova’s commitment to stand alongside our community during this difficult time. We believe that no family should face trauma alone, and this is our way of helping those impacted take the first step toward healing.

At Innova, we understand that healing takes time, and it’s a journey best undertaken together. Whether you need help for your child, yourself, or your family, please know we are here to walk alongside you every step of the way. Please don’t hesitate to contact us. You can also learn more about our relief efforts and resources here.

Together, we heal.

At Innova Recovery Center, we know that healing can’t wait, especially in moments of crisis.

As devastating floods have impacted families, first responders, and entire communities across Kerrville and the Texas Hill Country, Innova is stepping up to do what we do best: provide trauma care, emotional support, and hope for those who need it most. We are proud to serve as both the leading trauma treatment center in Texas and as fellow Texans: neighbors, parents, and community members committed to standing beside those who are hurting right now.

Free Trauma Counseling & Treatment Scholarships

We are offering free trauma counseling sessions to individuals affected by the flooding, including adults, children, teens, and first responders. For those without insurance or financial resources, we are providing full scholarships to ensure every person who needs care can receive it.

This includes specialized virtual group sessions for Camp Mystic flood victims and siblings from kindergarten through 12th grade. For more information, click here.

Our expert trauma therapists specialize in evidence-based treatment methods, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), play therapy for children, and group therapy for adolescents and adults.

Therapy is available at our locations in San Antonio, Boerne, and New Braunfels, as well as through secure telehealth nationwide.

Why Getting Help Early Matters

In this video, Dr. Kasi Howard, founder of Innova Recovery Center, explains why it’s crucial not to wait to seek trauma support after a disaster and how Innova is here to provide immediate assistance.

Mental Health & Stress Relief Kits for First Responders

Our staff is assembling mental health care kits for first responders working tirelessly on the frontlines. These kits include:

• Weighted blankets
• Sleep aids and calming tools
• Snacks and comforting personal items
• Handwritten notes of gratitude and encouragement from our staff and teens in our programs

We want first responders to know they are seen, valued, and supported.

Donation Drive & Community Service

In partnership with our Innova Joy teen center, we are organizing donation drives for essential supplies, allowing teens to actively participate in giving back to the community. Our team members will also be volunteering during work hours to assist flood-affected families with recovery efforts directly.

Help for Parents & Families

Many parents are asking how they can help their children process trauma and anxiety during this difficult time. Dr. Kasi Howard offers compassionate, practical tips for families in our blog post: How to Talk to Kids About Traumatic Events

How Innova is Supporting the Community

Learn more about how Innova is mobilizing to meet both the emotional and practical needs of the community, from free therapy and scholarships to donation drives and volunteer workdays, in this message from Dr. Howard.

We Are Texans, Standing With Texans

As Texas’ leading trauma treatment center, we feel a deep responsibility to deliver expert care and heartfelt compassion. If you or someone you know needs trauma support, please don’t hesitate to contact us: call or text (210) 254-3618 or email admin@innovarecoverycenter.com.

We’ve also set up a donation page where contributions will go directly toward our various flood relief efforts: https://square.link/u/cP6wDJtm

Together, we heal. Together, we rebuild.

A Reunion of Healing, Growth, and Transformation
Last month, our Innova Grace team welcomed former clients and staff back to our San Antonio campus for a heartwarming Homecoming celebration. This annual event is more than just a gathering, it’s a space created with intention, designed to foster reconnection among peers who have walked similar paths, celebrate the remarkable growth of our alumni, and reflect on the life-changing work that happens within the walls of Grace.

The Power of Grace
The event was filled with familiar faces, tight hugs, and emotional moments. Alumni from our Residential and PHP programs came together to reconnect with friends, share stories, and encourage one another. The energy in the room was a blend of joy, nostalgia, and pride.

One of the event’s standout moments was hearing former clients speak about their journeys since leaving Grace. One shared how she has gone back to school to pursue her degree, a dream she never thought possible. Another shared her excitement about loving her new job and rediscovering her purpose. And perhaps the most poignant reminder of why we do what we do came when a past client simply said, “Innova Grace saved my life.”

Celebrating Growth and Sharing Updates
At Innova Grace, we never miss an opportunity to recognize and celebrate growth, both big and small. During the event, our founder, Dr. Kasi Howard, took a moment to speak, as did a few of our brave alumni and staff members. Together, we reflected on the progress made and the strength it takes to continue healing.

We also took the opportunity to remind attendees that our IOP Alumni tracks are open and growing. These tracks are designed to provide continued support and community long after a client leaves our higher levels of care. The journey doesn’t end at discharge, it evolves.

Looking Ahead
Homecoming is a beautiful reminder of the lasting bonds built through Grace. We’re so grateful to everyone who attended and shared their stories with honesty and vulnerability. It was a testament to the resilience of our clients, the dedication of our staff, and the unwavering mission of Innova Grace: to create a space for healing, growth, and lifelong transformation.

About Innova Grace
Innova Grace is a trauma-focused treatment center in San Antonio, Texas, dedicated to helping women heal from complex trauma, PTSD, and related mental health challenges. Through our Residential, Partial Hospitalization (PHP), and Intensive Outpatient (IOP) programs, we provide a safe, nurturing environment where clients can reclaim their lives, build resilience, and rediscover their strength. Our clinical approach is grounded in compassion, evidence-based care, and the belief that healing is possible for every woman.

Ready to Start Your Healing Journey?
If you or someone you love is seeking support for trauma recovery, Innova Grace is here for you. Learn more about our programs and take the first step toward healing.

This month, we’re celebrating a three-mendous milestone: the 3rd Innovaversary of Madalynn Roest, our incredible Director of Administration here at Innova Recovery. Madalynn has a huge heart and brings a wealth of expertise to her work. A true wizard, there’s seemingly nothing she can’t do. She helps guide each client to the right program or clinician with care and compassion. She’s also a proud dog mom and always loves seeing our clients’ pet photos!

Madalynn Roest, Director of Administration

Here’s what her team had to say as we celebrate her Innovaversary:

“Happy Anniversary to a Director who makes a real difference! Your impact on our team goes far beyond just guiding our work; you foster a culture of collaboration, growth, and good humor. We deeply appreciate your open door, your insightful advice, and the fact that you always go the extra mile—whether it’s offering a listening ear or showing up with our favorite snacks. Here’s to celebrating you and all that you bring to our team!”
— Alexis Rodriguez, Admissions Coordinator

“Today marks another year of your exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and the genuine care you show to each person on this team. Your hard work sets the standard, your integrity inspires us, and your sense of humor brings light even to the busiest days. It’s rare to find a leader who not only drives results but also fosters a culture of respect, warmth, and camaraderie. You’ve made a lasting impact—not just on the organization, but on all of us who have the privilege of working with you. Thank you for your guidance, your trust, and for always leading with both your head and your heart. Happy Anniversary!”
— Taylor Metzner, Admissions Coordinator

“You are called the Wizard for a reason—HAPPY INNOVAVERSARY to the director who does it all! We are so grateful and lucky to have you on our team and as our leader. You make work more fun than I thought it was supposed to be. You showed us how we are able to mix fun with hard work, when to lock in and when to take a second and breathe, because we are home. You’ve helped build the culture at Innova and all the fun ideas like spirit weeks, pie days, and group photos. No matter what we need, we know we can count on you. I have never been more honored to work for someone!”
— Marvin Heffner, Admissions Coordinator

“Happy Innovaversary to one of the best directors I have worked under. You are smart, kind, patient, and always willing to answer our questions and help—even when you’re busy with your own tasks. Your humor makes coming to work every day so fun, and it’s comforting to know that no matter how hard a day can be, we have you in our corner and ready to make us laugh. It’s an honor to work alongside you and be part of your team!”
— Vivian Rosas, Admissions Coordinator

Madalynn, thank you for being the kind of leader who makes work feel meaningful, supportive, and fun. We’re so lucky to have you on our team and can’t wait to see all the ways you’ll continue to inspire and lead. Happy Innovaversary!

Read more about Madalynn here.

A Joyful Beginning
On April 16th, the New Braunfels community came together to celebrate something special: the grand opening of Innova Joy – New Braunfels, a trauma treatment center and therapeutic day school for teens. The event was a beautiful mix of fun, connection, and purpose, highlighting a shared mission to bring hope and healing to local youth.

From the moment the doors opened at 215 Kessler Street, the atmosphere was filled with excitement, compassion, and a sense of community support.

A Look Back at the Celebration
The event started with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce. Chris Snider, Executive Committee Chair-Elect, delivered the opening speech with Executive Committee Vice Chair Stephen Hanz in attendance. New Braunfels Mayor Neil Linnartz also joined, making the celebration even more memorable.

Guests toured the new facility, participated in hands-on therapeutic activities, and enjoyed free food and drinks while learning about the center’s services. We also held a raffle, and a few lucky winners went home with fun prizes. One of the most memorable moments was the announcement of $10,000 in scholarship opportunities for local teens, which will provide access to mental health support for families who need it most. Carol Flores-Whorton, Lead Clinical Therapist for Innova Joy – New Braunfels, accepted the check on behalf of the community. It was a powerful reminder of why Innova Joy exists—to make healing accessible, personal, and rooted in love. Please contact us if you know a teen who could benefit from this scholarship fund.

A Message from Our Guest Speaker
We were honored to have Dr. Andrew Bennett as our guest speaker. A board-certified orthopedic physical therapist and expert in manual therapy, Dr. Bennett brings a wealth of experience in both clinical care and education. He is a founding partner of Texas Physical Therapy Specialists and remains active in patient care, research, and mentoring.

Dr. Bennett spoke about the connection between chronic pain and trauma, and how both can literally change the brain. He explained how this makes it especially challenging for individuals to develop coping skills and begin the healing process. His message was a powerful reminder of why Innova Joy exists – to support people through that process with compassion, understanding, and love.

A Mission Rooted in Healing
As Dr. Kasi Howard, founder of Innova Joy, shared during the event:

“Every child deserves a space where they feel safe, heard, and supported as they work through life’s challenges. At Innova Joy, we’re not just offering therapy – we’re building a community of healing.”

Our New Braunfels mental health center provides specialized therapy for teens ages 12–17 who are navigating trauma, abuse, anxiety, or depression. With a team of passionate and highly trained clinicians and educators, the program combines therapeutic support with academic structure, helping students heal while continuing their education in a supportive environment.

This unique approach enables teens to feel seen and supported throughout the day, not just during therapy sessions. It’s a place where healing and learning happen side by side, empowering each student to grow, build resilience, and envision a brighter future.

Giving Back Through Givin’ Tree
In partnership with the local non-profit Givin’ Tree, attendees were encouraged to bring donations of everyday hygiene essentials such as bras, underwear, deodorant, and toothbrushes for local students in need. As Dr. Howard put it,

“We know healing doesn’t happen alone. It takes a community. And on our grand opening day, that truth was felt in every hug, every tour, and every single donated item.”

Thank You, New Braunfels
Thank you to everyone who came, donated, volunteered, or helped spread the word. Special thanks to the New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce, Givin’ Tree, and Dunkin Donuts/ AFCO Bakeries. Your support helped us open our doors with warmth, purpose, and joy. This is just the beginning, and we’re honored to walk alongside the New Braunfels community as we support teens on their journey to healing.

Want to learn more or explore services for your teen?

Visit our webpage or call (210) 254-3618 to get in touch with our team.

Together, we’re changing lives, one teen at a time.  

Read News Article

A group music and imagery (GrpMI) intervention was found to be effective at treating women with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or complex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD). These findings were published in the European Journal of Trauma & Dissociation.

Women (N=45) who were referred for PTSD/CPTSD treatment at a private clinic in Sweden in 2016 to 2018 were recruited for this study. Participants were evaluated by questionnaire about psychiatric symptoms and functioning. Patients were matched based on age and severity of symptoms and randomized to receive wait list (n=23) or the GrpMI intervention (n=22). The primary outcome was the change in PTSD Checklist for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (PCL-5) score.

The intervention comprised 12 weekly 2-and-a-half-hour group sessions with 5 to 7 participants which used the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music method. During each session, a therapist would guide participants with dialogues during a 30–45-minute classical music program. The guided imagery focused on self-exploration and working through inner conflicts and trauma.

The intervention and control cohorts were aged mean 45.2 (SD, 10.7) and 42.2 (SD, 9.10) years, 77.3% and 87.0% experienced both adult and childhood trauma, 50.0% and 52.2% were on sick-leave from work, 59.1% and 47.8% were married, and 86.4% and 73.9% had children, respectively.

Compared with controls, the GrpMI intervention associated with significant changes to the PCL-5 (F[1,42], 8.68; P ≤.01), Hopkins Symptom Check List-25 (HSCL-25; F[1,42], 7.94; P ≤.01), HSCL-5 Anxiety Subscale (F[1,42], 7.94; P ≤.01), PCL-5 Dysregulated Self Organization (F[1,42], 5.37; P ≤.05), HSCL-25 Depressive Subscale (F[1,42], 4.45; P ≤.05), Dissociative Experience Scale (DES; F[1,42], 5.59; P ≤.05), and Positive States of Mind Scale (PSOMS; F[1,42], 5.17; P ≤.05).

More patients who received the GrpMI intervention had a diagnostic change (38.1% vs 4.3%; χ2, 9.50; P =.023) and a 10 or greater point change in the Rate of Clinical Improvement (57.1% vs 17.4%; P =.007).

This study may have been limited by choosing a nonactive control condition.

The study authors concluded, “The result of the present study suggests that the phased trauma-focused modification of the GrpMI method may be a promising treatment modality for PTSD and CPTSD. Additional studies are warranted to confirm the efficacy of the method and to investigate the specific mechanisms relevant to the treatment effect.”

Reference Rudstam G, Elofsson UOE, Söndergaard HP, Bonde LO, Beck BD. Trauma-focused group music and imagery with women suffering from PTSD/Complex PTSD: A randomized controlled study . EJTD. 2022;6(3):100277. doi:10.1016/j.ejtd.2022.100277

i am not a Hero
Just an old man in my bed
i try to sleep at night
With memories in my head

The storm at night now scares me
The lightning and rumbles above
The memories of the war i went to
But yet did nothing a Hero would speak of

i canʼt help myself with these feelings
i fear what has already past
As i lay hear in my safe bed
With the prayers that this storm wonʼt last

i try to prepare for the worst
Thoughts and fear run through my head
But i canʼt help think of those soldiers
As i lay here in my safe bed

i am not a Hero
i studied, i trained, i went
But nothing except bad memories
Of when i layed there in my tent

But now many things scare me
That i have never feared before
As i lay here in my safe bed
With memories i have from war

i try and try to hold it
These emotions that i have
And the ones who are now my protectors
Continue to come home to a grave

i am not a Hero
There are others who deserve that praise
But the price that they pay for their service to us
Is forgotten in not many days

As i continue to live life and get older
My children live safe and have grown
i cannot help but think of the days
When i was the one who was gone

Once young and eager to serve my country
There was nothing that i would fear
But now i lay in my safe bed
Afraid of the sounds that i hear

There are Heroes that deserve our thanks
Even more for what they endured
For their fearless and selfless service
Now unable to hear our word

i am not a Hero
Just an old man that doesnʼt understand
Why i have fear of things like never before
Such as the shadows i see from my hand

Those serving us now are the true Heroes
For the comfort that they give
Those warriors who fight for our freedom
So old soldiers like me can live

They protect us and fight for our freedom
Earn ribbons they wear on their chest
Yet these Heroes when they return
Are praised with “They were the best”

There is nothing we can say or do
To prevent this bittersweet calling
Thank them now for their service to GOD and country
In case some day they have fallen

i am not a Hero
Just an old man in my safe bed
With the pride that i served so others may live free
And the fear of whatʼs in my head

os, SFC Ret

SK

Itʼs likely youʼve heard by now that exercise can be an effective tool to manage mental health symptoms. Itʼs equally likely that 99% of the people reading this also just let out a groan at the thought of having to sign up at a gym, wake up an hour earlier in the morning, dig your old gym shoes out from the bottom of your closet, work up the courage to go to the gym or find a time of day it isnʼt blazing hot to go on a run (I mean who wants to run in Texas in the summer anyway?), and get that popularly touted, mental health curing workout in.
Not really your style? Thatʼs ok.

Movement (or exercise) can look entirely different for everyone and still accomplish the same benefits. The most important thing is finding something that makes your body and mind feel good. For some people, this does mean going to the gym and getting an intense workout done. For others, it means going on a run. But for many people, it can be even simpler than that.

Walking is one of the most underrated forms of movement. Weʼve all heard the “10,000 steps per day” nonsense (as in thereʼs no research to show that 10,000 steps is an effective number and was actually arbitrarily picked by fitness watch manufacturers to sell watches, but thatʼs another story) but walking doesnʼt have to be that long or measured in any way to be beneficial. Even getting out for a 5 minute walk can improve your mood dramatically, or distract you from self destructive behavior, or be the stepping stone for creating the changes you want to see in your life.

There are numerous reasons that walking can be game changing for your mental health. Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce feelings of depression and anxiety, as well as promote grounding and relaxation. Walking helps tie physical movement to regulated breathing, which has a calming effect on the nervous system. Going for a walk is also a lower impact form of movement than running, while still improving your cardiovascular health and muscle tone. All of these benefits can be available to you in as few as 5 minutes of walking.

Interested in more on the effects of movement and mental health? Keep an eye out for more blog posts coming soon!

Bea Morrealle, LPC

So you thinking about going to therapy…
Recognizing that you need help is the first step in becoming a more resilient version of yourself. Therapy can help you overcome both long term and short term issues that are causing distress or impairments on your day to day living. Whether you have struggled your whole life, or are just going through a difficult stage, seeking a mental health counselor can help you unravel distorted thoughts, self sabotaging beliefs, and unhealthy habits that hinder you from living a more fulfilled life. Therapy can also help you get a more clear perspective and flexible mind, while processing events in a secure, non-judgmental environment. Here is a brief guide on what you need to know before going to therapy.

1. Find a therapist! This can seem like the most daunting part, because there are several therapists out there. You can start with identifying what you are seeking therapy for and search for someone who specializes in that particular issue. For example, if you are experiencing anxiety, try to find a therapist who is familiar with evidenced based therapy techniques to help you manage anxiety symptoms. Therapists can specialize in trauma, marriage and family issues, kids, personality disorders, mood disorders, veterans, etc. Much like doctors, therapists can treat very basic issues, just like a general practitioner, or more specific issues, such as eating disorders or OCD. Itʼs important to find someone who knows how to help you with your specific concerns.

2. Figure out finances. Most major insurance companies cover mental health, such as individual therapy, and even higher levels of care such as intensive outpatient therapy programs. You can contact your insurance company to figure out your benefits, or call our staff at Innova Recovery Center and we can check on benefits for you. Most therapists also offer private pay option as well, if you choose to forgo insurance, or if you do not have coverage. If finances are an issue, please let us know so we can give you options.

3. Make an appointment. During an initial session, the therapist will go over some paperwork, conduct an intake interview, and help you to set goals for therapy. It might seem intimidating to tell a stranger about your life and your problems, but this is what we are trained to do! And most therapists love their job! It is important for you to feel safe and comfortable because vulnerability can be difficult at first. The initial session should give you a general foundation of the therapeutic approach and guidelines for the therapy sessions. You can also ask your therapist questions about their approach, how long they have been in the field and what experience they have with your specific problem.

4. Be prepared for some discomfort. Although therapy is designed for healing, sometimes this healing can be challenging. Think about it like physical therapy for the mind, you might leave feeling “sore”, but working through the pain will eventually lead to relief. Itʼs normal and natural to become emotional in therapy, and even cry! This is 100% okay. If you have been holding in emotions for a long time, they will want to come out. Donʼt worry, we have plenty of tissues and healthy ways to talk about and feel your emotions in a way that will help you grow.

5. Keep on going! Remember, therapy is FOR you, not against you. As mentioned, it might be uncomfortable, but donʼt give up on yourself! Remember the reasons why you started therapy in the first place, and continue to go over goals and progress with your therapist. Donʼt be afraid to tell your therapist how you feel, what you are needing, and whether you need to slow down or speed up. There is no magical time frame- therapy can take a few months, or even several years. Give yourself the time and space you need to heal. Over the course of therapy, you will begin to learn more about yourself and settle in a place of true healing.

Innova Recovery Center has a wide range of therapist specializing in everything from working with kids, PTSD, marital issues, eating disorders, generalized anxiety and more! Each therapist brings a specialty niche creating a “one stop shop” for therapy for you and the whole family, if needed. Check out the “staff” page on our website to learn more about our therapist and find one that fits you and your needs. Then, take a deep breath, youʼre home.

By Alyssa Booth, LPC

1:3 girls and 1:5 boys are sexually molested by age 18. This means that roughly 20% of our population has had sexual abuse as a child. Up to 20% of those who have served in Iraq/Afghanistan have PTSD, in addition to the others who have symptoms that are not fully diagnosable. Over all, we have a significant part of our population that is at high risk to be triggered by masks.

If someone had their mouth covered while being raped, a mask brings up those same feelings. A mask also resembles a hijab, a face covering commonly seen in the Middle East, which is triggering for those who have served in the military. Those with a trauma history are already hyper vigilant, depending on reading peopleʼs facial cues to determine social safety, or someoneʼs general feeling of safety in a social situation.

Essentially, we must remember that mental health is JUST AS IMPORTANT as physical health. It is up to each individual to assess and prioritize their own health to determine how to best keep themselves safe. For some, having their mouth covered puts them at HIGH RISK for panic attacks, flashbacks, increased nightmares, and major depressive episodes. These things can take months to crawl out of and are not to be taken lightly by someone fighting a daily battle against their own anxiety. We cannot judge their decision as being reckless to physical safety any more than they can judge someone elseʼs based on recklessness to their mental stability. Additionally, someone should not have to disclose their trauma history to justify why they cannot wear a mask. Can you imagine having to share the worst memories of your life to be able to walk into Target?

Have grace. Everyone is fighting their own battle and we donʼt get to determine who their biggest enemy is.