Veterans Psychiatrists in Gig Harbor, WA

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.

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.

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.

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.