Photo of William Scott McLemore, MACMHC
William Scott McLemore
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MACMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77242  (Online Only)
I have been working with veterans and their families for over 3 years.
Are you a veteran or former military. Are you a first responder? If you are currently stationed in or live in Texas and are in need of discrete mental health services I may be able to help you. For my active duty brothers and sisters I can help you get your mental health diagnosis prior to ETS so that you have documented recorded that coinside with your service for the VA raters. If you are looking for someone that has walked that mile in your shews and understands your dark humor and language look no further.
I have been working with veterans and their families for over 3 years.
Are you a veteran or former military. Are you a first responder? If you are currently stationed in or live in Texas and are in need of discrete mental health services I may be able to help you. For my active duty brothers and sisters I can help you get your mental health diagnosis prior to ETS so that you have documented recorded that coinside with your service for the VA raters. If you are looking for someone that has walked that mile in your shews and understands your dark humor and language look no further.
(346) 206-0878 View (346) 206-0878
Photo of Rafael Zuniga, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rafael Zuniga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77014
I work with people who suffer from chronic mood issues, anxiety, and those healing from trauma due to military service, harmful religious experiences, past abuse or assault, and more.
Are you your own worst critic? Maybe you spend a lot of time beating yourself up, asking questions like “What’s wrong with me?” I know because I’ve worked with so many other people with similar struggles, and as a veteran, I’ve experienced it myself. Such negative thoughts are normal when you’ve never learned to combat them. Unfortunately, they contribute to many issues such as depression and anxiety. They can even worsen symptoms from trauma. The good news is you can change your patterns of thinking. One of my favorite quotes from Marcus Aurelius is “The happiness of your life depends on the quality of your thoughts.”
I work with people who suffer from chronic mood issues, anxiety, and those healing from trauma due to military service, harmful religious experiences, past abuse or assault, and more.
Are you your own worst critic? Maybe you spend a lot of time beating yourself up, asking questions like “What’s wrong with me?” I know because I’ve worked with so many other people with similar struggles, and as a veteran, I’ve experienced it myself. Such negative thoughts are normal when you’ve never learned to combat them. Unfortunately, they contribute to many issues such as depression and anxiety. They can even worsen symptoms from trauma. The good news is you can change your patterns of thinking. One of my favorite quotes from Marcus Aurelius is “The happiness of your life depends on the quality of your thoughts.”
(469) 297-9092 View (469) 297-9092
Photo of Javen Owens, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Javen Owens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77019  (Online Only)
Javen Owens is a Licensed Professional Counselor and has over 9 years of experience working with all ages. As a combat veteran, Javen is especially familiar with the military life and has worked with active-duty, veterans, and their families. He has also worked extensively with those struggling with substance abuse. Javen received his Masters in Adlerian Psychotherapy in 2013 and is actively pursuing his PhD in Transpersonal Psychology. Javen wants to help make each person feel empowered in their abilities to take what they've learned and apply it to their daily lives.
Javen Owens is a Licensed Professional Counselor and has over 9 years of experience working with all ages. As a combat veteran, Javen is especially familiar with the military life and has worked with active-duty, veterans, and their families. He has also worked extensively with those struggling with substance abuse. Javen received his Masters in Adlerian Psychotherapy in 2013 and is actively pursuing his PhD in Transpersonal Psychology. Javen wants to help make each person feel empowered in their abilities to take what they've learned and apply it to their daily lives.
(346) 248-7601 View (346) 248-7601
Photo of Javen Owens, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Javen Owens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77060  (Online Only)
Specializing in trauma, military, childhood trauma, and substance abuse, I offer empathetic support, tailored strategies, and a safe space for healing and growth.
I specialize in helping find relief from haunting memories, coping strategies for daily life, and a path to reclaiming their identity. My clients typically long for peace, stability, and the ability to form healthy relationships. Their goal is not just survival but thriving, finding purpose beyond their past traumas. They want to heal, not just for themselves, but for their loved ones and the community they wish to reintegrate into. Through therapy, they seek validation, understanding, and practical tools to navigate the complexities of their experiences.
Specializing in trauma, military, childhood trauma, and substance abuse, I offer empathetic support, tailored strategies, and a safe space for healing and growth.
I specialize in helping find relief from haunting memories, coping strategies for daily life, and a path to reclaiming their identity. My clients typically long for peace, stability, and the ability to form healthy relationships. Their goal is not just survival but thriving, finding purpose beyond their past traumas. They want to heal, not just for themselves, but for their loved ones and the community they wish to reintegrate into. Through therapy, they seek validation, understanding, and practical tools to navigate the complexities of their experiences.
(346) 589-7483 View (346) 589-7483
Photo of Scott Altamirano, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Scott Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77063  (Online Only)
I identify as Mexican-American, gay, and ex-military.
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving and acceptance so that we can find peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples in crisis, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
I identify as Mexican-American, gay, and ex-military.
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving and acceptance so that we can find peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples in crisis, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
(415) 663-2843 View (415) 663-2843
Photo of Scott Altamirano, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Scott Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77063  (Online Only)
I identify as Mexican-American, gay, and ex-military.
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving and acceptance so that we can find peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples in crisis, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
I identify as Mexican-American, gay, and ex-military.
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving and acceptance so that we can find peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples in crisis, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
(940) 283-6405 View (940) 283-6405
Photo of Scott D Altamirano, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Scott D Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77063  (Online Only)
I identify as Mexican-American, gay, and ex-military.
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving and acceptance so that we can find peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples in crisis, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
I identify as Mexican-American, gay, and ex-military.
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving and acceptance so that we can find peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples in crisis, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
(442) 203-6839 View (442) 203-6839
Photo of Scott D Altamirano, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Scott D Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77063
I identify as Mexican-American, gay, and ex-military.
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving and acceptance so that we can find peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples in crisis, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
I identify as Mexican-American, gay, and ex-military.
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving and acceptance so that we can find peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples in crisis, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
(214) 617-1662 View (214) 617-1662
Photo of Antwine D. Charles Sr., LPC, CMHC, LCDC In, Licensed Professional Counselor
Antwine D. Charles Sr.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CMHC, LCDC In
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77028
A disabled veteran, he has a heart for military and first responders.
Antwine D. Charles Sr is a retired veteran who served 24 years as a Navy Corpsman (medic) in the U.S. Navy. Serving in many countries and theatre’s, Antwine encountered many different cultures, in various war-torn, under-developed, and impoverished communities. Earning his Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, his interest include other cultures, customs and traditions. His journey ignited his interest in multi-cultural counseling, community servanthood and an endeavor to bring Mental Healthcare to those who are in need of counseling services wherever he can.
A disabled veteran, he has a heart for military and first responders.
Antwine D. Charles Sr is a retired veteran who served 24 years as a Navy Corpsman (medic) in the U.S. Navy. Serving in many countries and theatre’s, Antwine encountered many different cultures, in various war-torn, under-developed, and impoverished communities. Earning his Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, his interest include other cultures, customs and traditions. His journey ignited his interest in multi-cultural counseling, community servanthood and an endeavor to bring Mental Healthcare to those who are in need of counseling services wherever he can.
(361) 264-7679 View (361) 264-7679
Photo of Brandon M. Roberts, MEd, NCC, CFRC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandon M. Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, CFRC, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030  (Online Only)
Immediate Openings! I’m glad you’re considering seeking help for whatever you’re going through in life right now. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds, working through all sorts of things ranging from depression and anxiety to trauma and grief. I am a Christian, a husband, a father, a classically trained psychotherapist, and a combat veteran, and I believe all these parts of my identity work together to produce who I am as a counselor. All clients seeking help are important to me, but I get a special sense of fulfillment in working with military veterans and first responders.
Immediate Openings! I’m glad you’re considering seeking help for whatever you’re going through in life right now. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds, working through all sorts of things ranging from depression and anxiety to trauma and grief. I am a Christian, a husband, a father, a classically trained psychotherapist, and a combat veteran, and I believe all these parts of my identity work together to produce who I am as a counselor. All clients seeking help are important to me, but I get a special sense of fulfillment in working with military veterans and first responders.
(726) 600-8949 View (726) 600-8949
Photo of Dr. Noel C Gonzalez, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Noel C Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77009
Other jobs include: Baylor College of Medicine Family and Community Medicine Clinic and The Veterans Hospital.
Dr. Gonzalez and his associates treat adults, adolescents, children, and families who have a wide range of presenting problems. We have particular interests in eating disorders, relationship issues, including couples therapy, mood disorders, anxiety, sexual dysfunction and addiction, ADHD, LGBT issues, testing and evaluations for INS. We also have specialized training, experience, and interests in the treatment of children with behavior problems and families disrupted by divorce. All services are available in English or Spanish.
Other jobs include: Baylor College of Medicine Family and Community Medicine Clinic and The Veterans Hospital.
Dr. Gonzalez and his associates treat adults, adolescents, children, and families who have a wide range of presenting problems. We have particular interests in eating disorders, relationship issues, including couples therapy, mood disorders, anxiety, sexual dysfunction and addiction, ADHD, LGBT issues, testing and evaluations for INS. We also have specialized training, experience, and interests in the treatment of children with behavior problems and families disrupted by divorce. All services are available in English or Spanish.
(281) 645-9929 View (281) 645-9929
Photo of Angel Palacios, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angel Palacios
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77020  (Online Only)
in Political Science and MPA with focus on Int'l Development) and The University of Texas at Austin (MSSW with focus on Community Administrative Leadership) and experience working with Veterans, young adults, and families has given me invaluable insight to pull from while working with clients towards goals.
My ideal client is someone that can envision a better life and existence, and is willing to actively and persistently collaborate to work towards actualizing the goals they believe will enhance their mindset, their daily experience, and ultimately their quality of life. A willingness to discuss how they perceive and experience their issues will lead to a deeper understanding of root causes, actual needs, and the Self, which in turn will shift perspectives and transform personal narratives. Problems and needs become challenges met with action (via daily practice) that establish new behavioral patterns designed to achieve their goals.
in Political Science and MPA with focus on Int'l Development) and The University of Texas at Austin (MSSW with focus on Community Administrative Leadership) and experience working with Veterans, young adults, and families has given me invaluable insight to pull from while working with clients towards goals.
My ideal client is someone that can envision a better life and existence, and is willing to actively and persistently collaborate to work towards actualizing the goals they believe will enhance their mindset, their daily experience, and ultimately their quality of life. A willingness to discuss how they perceive and experience their issues will lead to a deeper understanding of root causes, actual needs, and the Self, which in turn will shift perspectives and transform personal narratives. Problems and needs become challenges met with action (via daily practice) that establish new behavioral patterns designed to achieve their goals.
(832) 937-9848 View (832) 937-9848
Photo of Isael Vanegas, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Isael Vanegas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77073  (Online Only)
I have experience working with the following communities: LGBTQ+, veterans, couples, and teens/adolescents.
Life is full of challenges and obstacles that we often feel we are unable to overcome. My goal is to help you discover your inner strength and motivation to keep moving forward, even when it feels too painful. I find that building strong relationships with others helps keep us emotionally regulated and feeling connected. I place heavy importance on building a strong therapeutic relationship during our initial sessions. This will help create a compassionate, safe, and growth-fostering environment where progress is inevitable.
I have experience working with the following communities: LGBTQ+, veterans, couples, and teens/adolescents.
Life is full of challenges and obstacles that we often feel we are unable to overcome. My goal is to help you discover your inner strength and motivation to keep moving forward, even when it feels too painful. I find that building strong relationships with others helps keep us emotionally regulated and feeling connected. I place heavy importance on building a strong therapeutic relationship during our initial sessions. This will help create a compassionate, safe, and growth-fostering environment where progress is inevitable.
(832) 408-1513 View (832) 408-1513
Photo of Jeffery Manzer, M Ed, LPC, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeffery Manzer
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77060
Are you still facing traumas from the past? Not sure how to process the traumas and overcome the stress? Feeling anxious every time something triggers a memory? Let me help. No matter what form the stress and traumas came in, they're still hard to process. If they’re difficult for you to process, then it’s important to me to help you. A certain population that I'm passionate about helping are first responders and veterans. These men and women struggle with stressors that many of us will never see. As someone who's worn both hats, I feel I am qualified to help you or your loved one work through that overwhelming feeling and burden.
Are you still facing traumas from the past? Not sure how to process the traumas and overcome the stress? Feeling anxious every time something triggers a memory? Let me help. No matter what form the stress and traumas came in, they're still hard to process. If they’re difficult for you to process, then it’s important to me to help you. A certain population that I'm passionate about helping are first responders and veterans. These men and women struggle with stressors that many of us will never see. As someone who's worn both hats, I feel I am qualified to help you or your loved one work through that overwhelming feeling and burden.
(409) 797-6221 View (409) 797-6221
Photo of Jonathan Porter, MA, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jonathan Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77065  (Online Only)
Welcome! As a therapist, my commitment rests in aiding individuals and couples face their challenges while discovering their inner strengths. My therapeutic approach merges concepts of Systems Theory with methodologies of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to assist clients in understanding how their thoughts and behaviors are influenced by their interactions within various systems. My expertise lies in addressing conditions such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem challenges, and relationship conflicts. I strive to create an environment characterized by safety and support, fostering an avenue for healing and personal development.
Welcome! As a therapist, my commitment rests in aiding individuals and couples face their challenges while discovering their inner strengths. My therapeutic approach merges concepts of Systems Theory with methodologies of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to assist clients in understanding how their thoughts and behaviors are influenced by their interactions within various systems. My expertise lies in addressing conditions such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem challenges, and relationship conflicts. I strive to create an environment characterized by safety and support, fostering an avenue for healing and personal development.
(346) 567-8177 View (346) 567-8177
Photo of Ehsan Adib Shabahang, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ehsan Adib Shabahang
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77056  (Online Only)
Have you ever found yourself feeling on edge, overthinking, or even planning for situations that have not or may not even happen? Is it a concern with change? Or harsh self inner critic holding you back? Maybe your past trauma is showing up in new ways? I know how it feels like to be at war with yourself and your mind; it may feel like there is no escape or "turn off" button in life. I can show you how trauma-focused therapy and Neurofeedback can retrain your brain out of unhealthy or negative thought patterns.
Have you ever found yourself feeling on edge, overthinking, or even planning for situations that have not or may not even happen? Is it a concern with change? Or harsh self inner critic holding you back? Maybe your past trauma is showing up in new ways? I know how it feels like to be at war with yourself and your mind; it may feel like there is no escape or "turn off" button in life. I can show you how trauma-focused therapy and Neurofeedback can retrain your brain out of unhealthy or negative thought patterns.
(281) 205-1521 View (281) 205-1521
Photo of Jonathan Kolmetz, MBA, MS, CFP®
Jonathan Kolmetz
Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate, MBA, MS, CFP®
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77008
Do you have relationship issues around money, sex, or communication? Let me help you gain insight into why you may be feeling stuck or challenged in these relationships. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples, who may not communicate well, work through differing values and beliefs to achieve healthier, stronger connections. Our goal is to build a more balanced self /couple able to respond to both the ordinary - and sometimes extraordinary - stressors related to relationships. Whether your stress stems from infidelity or the normal cycle of life, it’s time to get emotionally reconnected.
Do you have relationship issues around money, sex, or communication? Let me help you gain insight into why you may be feeling stuck or challenged in these relationships. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples, who may not communicate well, work through differing values and beliefs to achieve healthier, stronger connections. Our goal is to build a more balanced self /couple able to respond to both the ordinary - and sometimes extraordinary - stressors related to relationships. Whether your stress stems from infidelity or the normal cycle of life, it’s time to get emotionally reconnected.
(346) 423-3965 View (346) 423-3965
Photo of David M. Latini, PhD, MSCP, MSW, Psychologist
David M. Latini
Psychologist, PhD, MSCP, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77063
My approach to helping is supportive and collaborative. I want to work with you on agreed upon goals to help you improve your functioning in your daily life and in your relationships. My work is primarily from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy model, with some influence by Emotionally Focused Therapy and with insights from dynamic approaches where appropriate. My own personal development work has been influenced by Jungian and Buddhist writings. Kink/poly/CNM friendly!!
My approach to helping is supportive and collaborative. I want to work with you on agreed upon goals to help you improve your functioning in your daily life and in your relationships. My work is primarily from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy model, with some influence by Emotionally Focused Therapy and with insights from dynamic approaches where appropriate. My own personal development work has been influenced by Jungian and Buddhist writings. Kink/poly/CNM friendly!!
(281) 607-2258 View (281) 607-2258
Photo of Wayne Dees, PsyD, Psychologist
Wayne Dees
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77014
At the Neuropsychology Clinic, we provide a variety of mental health and assessment services to help clients gain practical skills to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. We believe that each client is unique and deserves a personalized treatment plan. Dr. Dees and our licensed therapists work closely with each client to develop a treatment plan that suits their individual needs, goals, and preferences. We understand that seeking therapy can be a difficult and vulnerable experience. We strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings.
At the Neuropsychology Clinic, we provide a variety of mental health and assessment services to help clients gain practical skills to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. We believe that each client is unique and deserves a personalized treatment plan. Dr. Dees and our licensed therapists work closely with each client to develop a treatment plan that suits their individual needs, goals, and preferences. We understand that seeking therapy can be a difficult and vulnerable experience. We strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings.
(346) 522-3042 View (346) 522-3042
Photo of Michael D Dangerfield, MEd, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael D Dangerfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77074
Hoping that your situation will turn out for the better, especially during difficult times, is extremely important; hope alone however, will only take you so far. My aim, as your therapist, is to assist you in identifying the connection between your beliefs, behaviors, and the challenges you're experiencing. I use sound therapeutic models to frame our therapuetic approach in session, and together, we'll work to enhance your outlook, build your skills, and reframe your life. I truly believe you're remarkable and more resilient than you know; my goal is to help you see that. Let's go All In, together.
Hoping that your situation will turn out for the better, especially during difficult times, is extremely important; hope alone however, will only take you so far. My aim, as your therapist, is to assist you in identifying the connection between your beliefs, behaviors, and the challenges you're experiencing. I use sound therapeutic models to frame our therapuetic approach in session, and together, we'll work to enhance your outlook, build your skills, and reframe your life. I truly believe you're remarkable and more resilient than you know; my goal is to help you see that. Let's go All In, together.
(281) 672-8059 View (281) 672-8059
Veterans Therapists

Why is mental health important for veterans and the military?

Veterans are more likely to face mental health challenges than the general public, and such mental health challenges can make it difficult for them to navigate day-to-day life. Improved mental health can result in better interpersonal relationships, lower levels of stress, and decreased dependence on substances, such as drugs or alcohol, for many veterans. Addressing common mental health conditions can also help facilitate recovery from physical health challenges that are faced by many veterans, such as chronic pain, physical injury, or poor sleeping patterns. Therapists trained in working with veterans can help address these concerns and help improve veteran mental health.

How can veterans get access to mental health support?

There are many resources for veterans to get mental health support, including through the VA or through their primary care doctor. Many service personnel are eligible for free or reduced-cost mental health counseling through the VA, depending on their service history and current income. Veterans can also utilize online directories, such as Psychology Today, or nonprofit organization resources like the Wounded Warrior Project, to find a therapist or other healthcare professional that specializes in their specific mental health needs. Veterans may also benefit from community-based groups that facilitate social connection and/or address specific concerns, such as Alcoholics Anonymous.

What type of therapy is best for veterans?

Veterans may benefit from multiple types of therapy, depending on what mental health challenges they are facing. Veterans seeking therapy for anxiety or depression may benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), which encourage clients to understand how their thought patterns influence their behavior. Veterans with PTSD may seek other more specialized forms of therapy to treat trauma symptoms, such as EMDR or exposure therapy. Many veterans and military personnel may also benefit from family or couples counseling to address the stress and adjustment challenges that can be associated with military life.

Can therapy for veterans help with trauma and PTSD?

Therapy can be highly effective in helping veterans with trauma and PTSD. Therapists specializing in veteran mental health often have extensive training and experience helping veterans navigate symptoms of trauma and can teach clients coping techniques to handle common symptoms associated with trauma and PTSD. Some therapists may use talk therapy as their primary approach, while others utilize more structured therapy modalities in sessions, such as EMDR. Veterans can try multiple therapy modalities to find the best fit for them. Therapists can also help make referrals or connect clients with available resources, such as VA benefits, to help address other life concerns.