Lourdes Health System Introduces “Living Springs at Lourdes,” a Behavioral Health Program Serving Active Duty Servicewomen

New program one of a few in nation to specifically address PTSD and other behavioral health issues in active duty servicewomen

Living Springs at Lourdes, a 21-bed, hospital-based behavioral health program has opened at Lourdes Medical Center of Burlington County. The program will provide treatment for military women suffering from behavioral health conditions including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, substance abuse and other forms of trauma.

“PTSD and other behavioral health issues have many triggers related to the stresses of military service,” said Lourdes Health System President and CEO, Alexander J. Hatala. “Living Springs at Lourdes is designed to create a comfortable, safe environment where military women can relate to each other during the recovery process.”  

The specialized program will provide services designed to meet the unique mental health and overall wellness needs of military women, while helping them manage challenges such as reintegration – the emotional process of adjusting to operating in a garrison environment after deployment to a combat zone.

The only program of its kind on the East Coast, Living Springs at Lourdes will join a select number of similar behavioral health centers located in Texas, Oregon, Utah and Arizona.  

“Our patients will be servicewomen who will come primarily from the northeast region. We anticipate 60 percent of our patients will seek treatment for PTSD,” said Hatala. “We anticipate the remainder will require dual recovery or general psychiatric care.”

Patients will benefit from a comprehensive treatment program that includes individual counseling and group therapy. Living Springs at Lourdes features private and semi-private rooms, a general relaxation area and a fitness center, as well as holistic treatment approaches, such as pet therapy and recreation therapy.

“This program is just a first step to provide servicewomen with the care they deserve,” said Hatala.  “We also plan to provide special support programs for the spouses and families visiting the servicewomen during their stay with us. It is an honor to serve the men and women of the military and we look forward to continuing our strong relationship with them.”

Lourdes is seeking community assistance in building awareness of PTSD and in contributing to the start-up of the program. If you would like to be a partner, contact Kim Barnes, Vice President for Corporate Development at barnesk@lourdesnet.org.