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EP137: Trauma, Veterans, and Healing: How SHEEPDOG and Social Work Tell the Real Story

NASW Social Work Talks Podcast

NASW Social Work Talks - Trauma, Veterans, and Healing: How SHEEPDOG and Social Work Tell the Real Story, with Steven Grayhm-Actor/Writer/Director of Sheepdog and Dr Tara Consolin DSW LMSW - this episode sponsored by Illinois Department of Children and Family Services

In this powerful episode of Social Work Talks, filmmaker and actor Steven Grayhm discusses his film SHEEPDOG, now streaming online. Grayhm directed, produced, and starred in the film, which explores the mental health challenges facing veterans and the importance of connection, care, and community. During the conversation recorded when the film was still in theaters, he highlights a staggering reality: nearly 5 million veterans in the United States have not accessed available VA care. Enter NASW Member Dr. Tara Consolino, DSW, LMSW, who heads Darkling Psychotherapeutic Services, PLLC, and served as a consultant on SHEEPDOG. The film’s social worker character, played by Oscar‑nominated Virginia Madsen, is inspired by her real‑world work helping veterans heal. She and Grayhm share how much the film has touched so many people.

This episode also examines:

Veteran suicide prevention and access to VA resources
The role of social workers in supporting veterans and military families
How community can interrupt crisis
The impact of storytelling on mental health awareness. Listen now and join the conversation about healing, responsibility, and the life-saving power of connection.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line or Text 838255

March 2, 2026