Art Therapy for Veterans: Healing Through Creativity
Introduction
Transitioning from military to civilian life comes with many challenges, including mental health struggles, post-traumatic stress (PTS), and isolation. While traditional therapy plays a crucial role in recovery, art therapy for veterans is proving to be a powerful tool for healing and self-expression. In this episode of VET S.O.S., we welcome JR, founder of the True Top 1% Foundation, who shares how his organization is transforming veteran mental health through art therapy and outreach programs.
The Journey to Art Therapy for Veterans
J.R.JR’s path to supporting veterans through art was unexpected yet deeply personal. With a background in sales, behavioral science, and microexpressions, he found himself exploring art as a therapeutic escape during the pandemic. What started as a way to help non-profits and animal shelters soon became a mission when he met a veteran’s widow and created a memorial piece.
Realizing the impact that creative outlets could have on veterans struggling with trauma, JR launched True Top 1% Foundation in 2021. His goal? To help veterans heal through art therapy for veterans while building a supportive community.
Programs & Initiatives: Healing Through Creativity
The True Top 1% Foundation offers several free programs to help veterans explore creative outlets. Here are some of their key initiatives:
1. Painting for PTS
Veterans share their personal stories which are then transformed into therapeutic artwork.
A licensed therapist is involved to ensure the process is emotionally safe.
The program takes around three months, from story collection to the final artwork.
This initiative helps veterans process trauma through visual storytelling and is an integral part of art therapy for veterans.
2. Beer Bottle Painting Therapy
Veterans paint using beer bottles, symbolizing a transformation from self-medication to self-expression.
A 10-week detox program integrates this therapy to help individuals dealing with alcohol dependency.
Participants use their drink of choice—beer, wine, or spirits—to paint, creating an emotional connection and redefining their relationship with alcohol.
3. Captain S. Claus – Spreading Joy Through Art
A military Santa Claus dressed in service uniforms brings art supplies and holiday cheer to veterans and military families.
This program visits bases, veteran centers, and community events.
Each Santa is tailored to different military branches, making it a personalized experience for service members.
4. Free Mental Health Toolkits
Veterans can receive a customized mental health toolkit filled with art supplies.
Each kit, valued at $150, includes painting, woodworking, metalwork, or culinary tools.
Families are encouraged to participate, fostering bonding and reducing isolation through art therapy for veterans.
5. Trauma & Fire Therapy
Veterans use fire and woodworking as therapeutic activities to express emotions and reduce stress.
This hands-on approach engages sensory and creative skills, promoting emotional release.
The Power of Art Therapy for Veterans
One of the biggest hurdles in promoting art therapy for veterans is overcoming the stigma that it may be too “soft” or not useful for veterans accustomed to discipline and structure. However, JR and his team have seen countless success stories, including veterans who initially resisted the idea of art therapy but later found it to be a life-changing experience.
For example, at a Beer Bottle Painting event in Michigan, several Vietnam veterans reluctantly attended at their wives’ request. Many sat with arms crossed at the beginning but soon found themselves fully immersed in the experience, even turning it into a friendly competition. This event demonstrated that art therapy for veterans isn’t just about painting—it’s about camaraderie, engagement, and emotional release.
Collaborations & Outreach
To expand their impact, True Top 1% Foundation works with:
Family Readiness Teams on military bases to provide on-site workshops.
MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) programs to integrate art therapy for veterans into military life.
Other veteran organizations, such as Mission 22 and Road Home Program, to combine efforts and reach more veterans.
Outdoor recreation programs, where art therapy for veterans is integrated into hiking, hunting, and fishing trips.
How to Get Involved
If you or someone you know could benefit from these programs, reaching out is easy and completely free for veterans:
🌐 Website: TT1P.org
📧 Email: [email protected]
JR and his team travel nationwide, bringing art therapy for veterans and healing programs directly to service members. Whether you want to participate in a workshop, receive a mental health toolkit, or start your own art therapy journey, True Top 1% Foundation is here to help.
Final Thoughts
The power of art therapy for veterans cannot be overstated. For many veterans, the transition to civilian life is overwhelming, and traditional methods of therapy may not always be effective. True Top 1% Foundation provides a new avenue for healing, proving that creativity, community, and self-expression can lead to mental health breakthroughs and suicide prevention.
As JR puts it, “Art is not just about making something beautiful—it’s about making something meaningful.”
If you or a veteran you know is struggling, remember: You are not alone. There are creative outlets, resources, and a community ready to support you.
Follow VET S.O.S. for More Veteran Resources:
📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vetsospodcast
🎧 Listen on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Wreaths Across America Radio | Parade Deck
📲 Follow on Social Media: @vetsospodcast on all platforms
🔹 Don’t drown in the sea of transition – Grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline! 🔹
