The unofficial angry letter workshop IGNITE

IGNITE is a clinically supported creative writing experience designed for veterans processing anger, grief, or unresolved emotion. In collaboration with their therapist and a TT1P facilitator, participants use guided writing and optional art integration to safely externalize thoughts and feelings that are often left unsaid—transforming frustration into reflection and personal insight.

• Referrals are made directly through the veteran’s therapist.
   
• The referring therapist remains the primary clinical contact throughout participation.
   
• Includes guided journaling, creative writing prompts, and structured follow-ups at 1 week, 3 months, and 6 months.
   
• Participation is always free of charge for veterans.
   

IGNITE is ideal for veterans seeking a structured, creative outlet to process strong emotions as part of their therapeutic journey—helping turn silence and anger into understanding and strength.

1.  Journaling  & Letter Writing
   Veterans begin by completing guided prompts that lead to the creation of      an unofficial letter — words they wish they could say but never  have.
2. Group  Art Session
   Participants write or paint their letters onto a canvas, then work together to create a shared image (sunrise, waterfall, or horizon) over  their words, symbolizing transformation and healing.
3. Optional Fire Ceremony
   Veterans may choose to attend a closing fire ceremony led by TT1P trauma-informed staff and a licensed therapist. The ceremony represents  release and renewal as participants symbolically let go of the pain  carried in their artwork.
4. Follow-Up
   Wellness check-ins occur at 3 and 6 months to evaluate progress and      emotional growth.

Veterans eligible for Ignite must be currently active in therapy with a licensed mental-health provider.

When submitting a referral, therapists are asked to include the veteran’s PCL-5 (Post-Traumatic Stress Checklist) score. This measure allows our team to place participants in the most appropriate category for trauma-informed care:

• Low (0–19): The veteran may be best suited for TT1P’s Wellness Programs such as Renewal or Illuminate.
   
• Moderate (20–49): The veteran eligible for Ignite, where creative work is guided collaboratively between the therapist and TT1P facilitators.
   
• High (50+): The veteran may not yet be a fit for our program. TT1P will pause enrollment and consult with the referring therapist before proceeding to ensure adequate clinical support and safety measures are in place.
   

While additional measures such as PHQ-9, GAD-7, and WHO-5 are not required, they are strongly encouraged to provide a fuller picture of the veteran’s well-being. These assessments help TT1P and the therapist coordinate care, track outcomes, and respond appropriately throughout the program.