There are many theories one might apply to understand the processes of the letter writing intervention that include traditional psychotherapeutic perspectives, interpersonal process perspectives (Yalom, 1970), humanistic (Rogers, 1951), existential (Yalom, 1980), and spiritual understandings of healing transgressions (Harris et al., 2021). One of the more interesting explanations of how the letters transform the relationships is derived from Memory Trace Theory (MTT), a neurocognitive theory based on research emphasizing the dynamic and malleable nature of memory (Nadal & Moscovitch, 1997; Moscovitch & Nadal, 1999). Brain research has demonstrated that memories are not static but are fluid and can changed when new information and experiences are encoded after retrieval. When memories are retrieved, either intentionally or through activation by other cues, they can be altered when new information or experiences are encoded through the process of reconsolidation. Lane et al. (2015) have proposed an integrated memory model of psychotherapeutic change in which the natural malleability of memory can be leveraged as an opportunity for therapeutic change. Ecker, Ticic, & Hulley (2012) developed a therapeutic intervention, Coherence Therapy, using memory reconsolidation theory to reconstruct traumatic memory as an intervention strategy. They define the circumstances under which memories are elicited and altered through a corrective emotional experience and are then reinforced through new emotional learning with the changed memory. This intervention relies on the transformation of traumatic memories into more benign experiences of traumatic events by activating the distressing memory in the context of a therapeutic environment and providing an opportunity for reconsolidation of the old memory with new healing experiences. These new emotional experiences become attached to the traumatic memory and grow stronger each time the memory is activated.

In the context of our group treatment, the letter elicits the traumatic memory when the member shares or writes about the trauma. The letter is read aloud to the group. During this process the traumatic memory expands and reconsolidates to include new information, the group members feedback, and the feeling of emotional attunement and holding. An important aspect of memory reconsolidation is creating an environment post intervention which allows for the strengthening of the new reconsolidated memory. The group allows for continued interaction with the new memory in the context of the group and the memory also begins to be associated with other members’ transformed relationships with their others, and provides many more opportunities for these new memories to become reconsolidated.

Also, as part of our program, group members are encouraged to engage in behavioral rituals reinforcing their request for forgiveness and making amends. This also provides the opportunity for healing rituals to become a part of the reconsolidated memory. Many times, these rituals include all the group members, strengthening all members memory transformation and reconsolidation. There is evidence that sleep Walker24 and, in particular, Rapid Eye Movement sleep in particular, Diekelmann et al.25 “have been shown to preferentially support the consolidation of emotional aspects of memory.” (Lane, et al. 26 . Interestingly many of our veterans have experienced what we call “Transformation Events” after sharing their letters and/or performing their rituals. Most often these transformations are in the form of dreams where the lost or harmed other(s) reappear as healthy and whole, carrying a message of forgiveness and reconnection. This is strongly suggestive of a memory which is now reconsolidated as a healing memory rather than a traumatic one.