Narrative Medicine teaches warriors the skills of radical listening and close reading of text to enhance the telling of one’s own story. Initially developed by Columbia University as a way to teach medical doctors, surgeons, and other health care professionals how to listen for narrative instead of looking for symptoms, Narrative Medicine has been utilized by diverse groups seeking a deeper level of self expression.

Adopted by TRR in 2017, Narrative Medicine offers warriors opportunities for reflection, creative expression and self-empowerment which complements the work done though other therapeutic modalities. Since writing is a process of discovery, no writing experience or level of skill is required. Narrative medicine sessions help warriors to reclaim the words, truths, stories, and strengths that had been stripped away by the winds of war.

Conducted in group sessions during Warrior Camp, Narrative Medicine facilitates the building of community.

Alex Betke is an attorney and registered lobbyist focusing his practice on Government Relations and Municipal Law, a unique combination of legal concentrations allowing him to meet clients’ needs at all levels of government and to provide innovative resolutions to a variety of legal challenges.

Alex enjoys considerable experience working with the Governor’s Office, the Legislature, state agencies, the Attorney General and the State Comptroller, along with New York’s federal government representatives. His clients range from major industry associations and fortune 500 companies to small businesses and not-for-profit organizations, with work encompassing all aspects of government relations, including legislation, procurement, appropriations and regulatory matters.

Previously, Alex was elected for eight years as the Town Supervisor of the Town of Coxsackie and served several terms as a councilman before holding that post. Based on his experience and exposure to the workings of local government, he established and grew a municipal practice, and continues to serve as general and special counsel to various municipalities.

Alex has been involved in New York State politics throughout his career, serving as an elected state committeeman for the New York State Democratic Party and working on several statewide campaigns. This experience, in addition to his professional work, contributes to and informs his approach to legal matters and increases his effectiveness in advancing client objectives.