Omaha student and intern sets up mental health clinic for victims of Arbor Day tornado outbreak

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - It’s been almost three months since the devastating Arbor Day tornados that destroyed hundreds of homes across Nebraska and Iowa.

Coping after a natural disaster can be difficult, whether you lost something or not.

Because of that, a therapy student at UNO and intern for Radiant Counseling wanted to help emotionally and psychologically support people.

She – along with the private practice she interns for – is offering free support-group sessions this month.

They’re open to anyone who is having trouble dealing with any trauma associated with living through those terrifying tornadoes.

“Being a mental health counsellor is not only what happens in session with clients but also how we approach the community and making sure we’re also being advocates for the community,” said Taylor Trainor. “So I wanted to set up something that people can come in and process what was happening and have that supportive environment to rebuild a sense of safety and community.”

These sessions are free and take place every Monday at 6 p.m. A licensed mental health therapist from Radiant Counseling will also be there to oversee. They meet on the UNO campus at the Barbara Weitz Community Engagement Center at 64th and Dodge Street.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated UNO is responsible for the free support group. It is actually run through Radiant Counseling. 6 News regrets this error.

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