NC clinicians collaborate to help individuals affected by Helene

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WNCN) — The images and videos from western North Carolina affect so many people differently. Clinical social worker Toya Hauf says the most challenging part is seeing friends and former colleagues deal with devastation.

“It has been heartbreaking considering I just moved from Asheville in May,” Hauf said. “[Seeing people deal with devastation] is part of why I wanted to provide some pro bono services.”

Clinicians Allie Barker of Nurture Within Counseling PLLC, a Franklin resident, and Carolyn Miller of The Healing Point, a Wilmington resident, have the same idea. They came together to form the Care Collaborative for Western North Carolina Clinicians. The partnership gives those dealing with the aftermath a place to open up and talk.

“I had over 150 therapists reach out to me and say they’re more than willing to offer pro bono services,” Barker said. “We want to give survivors, family members, and others who have watched this trauma unfold a place to talk.”

Said Miller, “The response has been overwhelming since we agreed to work with Allie to ensure we have a partnership.”

People from across the state have donated essential supplies, but the clinicians say this is the next step.

“It’s been shown this type of intervention can prevent PTSD from developing later on,” said Sara Megeed with Counseling Professionals, LLC. “The earlier we intervene with support, the better.”

Some of these licensed professionals are taking their message to all forms of social media. Carly Hudson with The Garden Wellness Group plans to offer weekly group sessions to begin the healing process for those dealing with Helene’s aftermath.

“It’s going to be focused on processing what’s happened, honoring people’s grief, and providing a sense of community,” Hudson said.

The free clinicians offering services can be found here .

If the storm has impacted you and you need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish, through a call, text, or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com.