For Providers Offering Support to the Brown University Community
Many mental health professionals want to help in moments like this and also want to do so in a way that is responsible, coordinated, and sustainable.
This page is for licensed providers who would like to support members of the Brown University community.
A Bit About Me
My name is Sarah LaFontaine, and I’m a licensed therapist based in Rhode Island.
I’m a lifelong Rhode Islander and grew up in Providence. This community shaped me - my values, my sense of responsibility to others, and my belief that care should be human, accessible, and grounded in real understanding. When something this devastating happens close to home, it doesn’t feel abstract. It feels personal.
I created this resource hub because I care deeply about this community and because I believe that clear, compassionate mental health support matters, especially in the aftermath of violence.
Join the Provider Mailing List
Receive updates about:
Community needs as they evolve
Opportunities to offer group or individual support
Coordination efforts to reduce duplication and burnout
Offer Individual or Peer Support
Licensed providers can offer individual sessions or peer supervision by submitting their information to be shared publicly with the Brown University community.
Share Written Resources
Providers can support the community by uploading written resources that offer clear, accessible guidance during and after a traumatic event.
Resources may include:
Coping with the aftermath of community violence
Managing panic attacks and acute anxiety
Basic psycho-ed on trauma and stress responses
Grounding tools and practical coping strategies
Submissions should be clear, trauma-informed, and written for a general audience
Offer Support Through Groups
Providers can also offer support by listing group sessions on the public calendar
Groups may include:
Support or process groups
Peer consultation groups
Skills-based or psycho-ed groups
Share Video Resources
Providers can also contribute by submitting links to videos that offer supportive, psychoeducational content.
Videos may cover:
Trauma responses and nervous system regulation
Panic attacks and anxiety management
Grounding and stabilization techniques
Coping strategies following a traumatic event
Videos should be accessible, non-graphic, and appropriate for public sharing
Ways to Offer Support
You can choose how involved you want to be, based on your capacity and scope of practice.
A Note on Sustainable Care
Community response work can be meaningful and it can also be emotionally demanding. I encourage all providers to:
Offer only what is realistic for you
Prioritize supervision and peer support
Set clear boundaries around availability
Sustainable support helps everyone
Stay informed about how to help without overextending yourself
If you’re a provider interested in supporting the Brown University community, this newsletter is the best way to get thoughtful, coordinated updates.
You’ll hear about:
Evolving community needs
Opportunities to offer support
New resources for providers doing this work responsibly
You can stay connected and contribute in ways that are aligned with your capacity.
Thank You for Showing Up
Your willingness to offer care matters. Whether you’re supporting one person or many, your presence makes a difference.
