Many female veterans may face challenges that often go unseen, and when you come home from service, “safety” can often take on a different meaning. Experiences after separation may include balancing family responsibilities, processing difficult or traumatic experiences, or searching for housing and support that feels secure and stable. 

We built our female veteran program because healing can’t happen without safety. We want to make sure you know about four specific, trauma-informed resources you can use to maintain or reclaim your sense of security. 

1. Otto’s Phoenix House 

If you’re facing housing instability, traditional shelters may not always be suitable for female veterans. Some shelters might separate mothers from their children or can’t accommodate families. 

We opened Otto’s Phoenix House (OPH) in early 2025, and it’s the only shelter specifically designed for female veterans and their children in our area. OPH prioritizes security and privacy so you can focus on stability and move toward permanent independence.

Related Post: Why Economic Stability is a Critical Issue for Female Veterans

2. Hydromassage Therapy & Reiki 

We know that there can be a connection between physical pain and emotional trauma. The VA reports that about one in three female veterans experienced sexual harassment or assault while serving. For those with MST, traditional massage or physical therapy can be difficult.  

Our Morale Center offers a hydromassage chair that provides the benefits of a traditional massage, like stress reduction, pain relief, and better circulation, but without any direct physical contact. Similarly, Reiki therapy offers a natural holistic energy therapy of Japanese Origins. This gentle treatment reduces stress, promotes relaxation, and enhances the body’s natural healing ability.

 Related Post: Reinterpreting Veteran Needs for the Future of Services 

3. Women-Only Support Groups

Isolation can be a difficult part of transitioning back to civilian life after military service. For some women who served, it may feel challenging to find spaces where their experiences are understood. A space that allows for understanding without judgment can be especially valuable. 

“Just Because… We Are Women” is one of the many veteran groups we facilitate and is designed to give you the space and camaraderie to not feel so alone. This group is run by women and is for female veterans only. We also offer a women’s crafting group for those who love to create, and the goal is the same: community, camaraderie, and connection. We want to build something where you feel seen, heard, and physically and emotionally secure among peers who have walked a similar path.

4. Wellness Services

Access to essential resources is closely tied to the ability to heal. When individuals are navigating food insecurity or unmet health needs, it can affect both physical and emotional well-being. Our Quartermaster services, fitness center, and outdoor recreation programs support trauma recovery by addressing these foundational needs and helping restore a sense of security.  

The Quartermaster program provides food, clothing, and basic hygiene essentials free of charge to make sure that you have what you need to live a healthy lifestyle. Similarly, our fitness center is a place where you can reconnect with your physical strength on your own terms. Both resources are here to help you rebuild your foundation, so you can focus on the bigger picture of your health and happiness.   

Our outdoor recreation program offers another outlet for healing centered around nature. Through our Hiking and Outdoor Open groups, you have multiple opportunities and ways to build resilience and camaraderie. 

Related Post: Backed by Research: Benefits of Mindfulness for Veterans with PTSD 

You don’t have to navigate this alone. 

If you want to learn more about any of these resources or just want to talk to someone who gets it, please contact us today at 585.546.1081 or visit us at 447 South Avenue, Rochester, NY.