The THRIVE Program leverages expertise across the entire University of North Carolina ecosystem including the UNC Health system, its statewide Physicians Network, a $1B research enterprise, and community partner engagements all coming together with one core value: Improve the quality of life of Veterans and first responders we serve. Our strength is our unique ability to maximize our collective experiences in delivering high-quality health care, conducting military relevant research, and working the solution to complex problems to address the biopsychosocial needs of Veterans and first responders.
Clinical Program – The BLUF
The THRIVE Program offers a three-staged approach to participant care:
Stage 1: 3-Day Evaluation
The THRIVE Program begins with a detailed three-day interdisciplinary diagnostic evaluation in Chapel Hill, NC.
A comprehensive evaluation involves individual assessments with our interdisciplinary team that includes (but is not limited to the following specialities):
- Behavioral Health
- Case Management
- Clinical Pharmacology
- Clinical Psychology
- Musculoskeletal medicine
- Neuropsychology
- Nutrition
- Physical therapy
- Psychiatry
- Speech Language Pathology
- Vestibular Therapy
Stage 2: Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Those who qualify for the program are eligible to return for a three-week intensive outpatient program. This program integrates conventional medicine with complementary and alternative medicine approaches. Participants and their families will receive extensive education regarding traumatic brain injury and other health conditions to improve symptom self-management aimed at enhancing quality of life. Some additional alternative therapies include (but are not limited to):
- Acupuncture
- Art Therapy
- Equine Therapy
- Group Sessions
- Yoga & Mindfulness
Stage 3: Follow-up
THRIVE Program participants will work with our case managers for up to 12 months following the completion of the intensive outpatient program. During this time, we will work to ensure care continues in your local communities.
Reducing Barriers to Care
The THRIVE Program team recognizes that Veterans and first responders carry diverse and unique lived experiences. No two THRIVE Program participants will be identical. We have built our program on this very basis and firmly believe in meeting you where you are in life. Our program and the philanthropic support it receives allows us to care for all Veterans and first responders regardless of:
- Discharge status
- Insurance coverage/VA benefits
- Distance (travel included)
Informational One-Page Hand Out
Avalon Action Alliance
The THRIVE Program is proud to be a TBI Center partner in the Avalon Action Alliance, the post-trauma nonprofit dedicated to world-class care and transformative solutions around brain health and mental wellness for veterans, first responders, and their families experiencing symptoms related to PTSD, TBI, and substance abuse.
