Virtual/Call-In Support Group is held on the 2nd Monday and 4th Monday of every month at 7 pm EST (see full schedule below). The group is dedicated for burn survivors and their loved ones. To honor their support needs, we ask that all participants identify within these categories.
All groups meet at 7 pm EST.
The 2nd Monday of every month is dedicated to general discussion.
2025 Dates: November 10, December 8
The 4th Monday of every month will feature rotating topics and special guest speakers.
October 27 | Beyond Survival: Understanding the Long-Term Impact of a Burn Injury with Dr. Susan Smith
Join us for a special support group session with Dr. Susan Smith, who will share insights into the lasting impact of a burn injury beyond acute care. This discussion will highlight the physical, emotional, and social challenges survivors may face, while offering resources and support throughout every phase of recovery.
Dr. Susan Smith began her nursing career as an associate degree registered nurse in 1989, continuing her educational journey to complete her Master of Science in Nursing, Doctor of Health Science, and achieving her educational goal of Doctor of Philosophy in 2017. She is a nurse practitioner nationally certified in Burns, Simulation, Wound Care, Family Practice and Acute Care. She has authored manuscripts on a variety of topics and presented throughout the nation and the world on burn care. Her primary role is as an Advanced Practice Burn Research and Clinical Practice Education Specialist, providing burn care for adults in the critical care, ambulatory, and surgical settings at Orlando Regional Medical Center’s Warden Burn Center. She serves on the American Burn Association's national teaching faculty for advanced burn life support and as an elected member of its national research committee. Additionally, she volunteers throughout the world as a burn nurse educator.
November 24 | Navigating the Holidays after a Burn Injury with Cindy Rutter, RN, BSN, LMFT and Jennifer Harris, MSW, LICSW
Join hosts Cindy and Jenn for a special support group focused on finding balance, connection, and comfort during the holiday season. Together, we’ll explore ways to manage emotions, expectations, and traditions after a burn injury—creating space for healing, reflection, and celebration.
Cindy Rutter, RN, BSN, LMFT has been part of the burn community for more than 45 years as both a professional and a survivor. A burn survivor since childhood, she became an RN in 1981 and later served as nurse manager of the UCSD Regional Burn Center. Since becoming a licensed marriage and family therapist in 2015, Cindy has maintained a private practice in San Diego, CA. She helped develop Phoenix SOAR (Survivors Offering Assistance in Recovery) and the Phoenix Society’s Advocacy Program and continues to focus on the emotional and psychosocial needs of survivors and caregivers. Cindy facilitates retreats, workshops, and peer programs nationwide and currently serves on the ABA/PS Aftercare Reintegration (ARC) Committee.
Jennifer Harris, MSW, LICSW is a clinical social worker and psychotherapist specializing in trauma-informed care. She was first introduced to the burn community while working at the Massachusetts General Hospital Burn Unit and became connected with Phoenix Society. For the past five years, Jenn has been in private practice in Boston, MA, where she supports people impacted by trauma and loss. She remains involved with Phoenix Society through programs and virtual peer support, helping survivors and families navigate their healing journey.
At the beginning of each support group, basic ground rules will be shared to create a supportive setting. We also ask that everyone acknowledge understanding that this group is focused on peer support for burn survivors and their loved ones, and is not a substitute for local emotional support.
You must sign-up in order to receive instructions and a weblink for joining the group.
To participate, please review our Virtual Group Safety Agreement and then fill out the form below. On the day of the support group, you will receive an email with the web link and additional instructions for joining.
The group is focused on peer-to-peer support for survivors and loved ones. It is facilitated by staff and emotional support providers connected to Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. Active participation from Phoenix SOAR (Survivors Offering Assistance in Recovery) trained volunteers will be included, and conversation by all participants will make support grow for all present!
Please contact Phoenix Society at info@phoenix-society.org.