Veterans Therapists in Lake Oswego, OR

Photo of Carolyn S Hughes, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn S Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked in many areas of practice including active duty military members and families, VA hospitals, and community mental health.
I enjoy working with individuals who are seeking a real change in their life. Sometimes you are "tired of the rut I am in" or feeling that "something needs to change..I do not want to feel like this anymore." Sometimes you are struggling with "old issues" and sometimes it is more current stresses like anxiety, relationships, or just do not know what to do next; I believe when you are ready to make a change, having a supportive push can really work!
I have worked in many areas of practice including active duty military members and families, VA hospitals, and community mental health.
I enjoy working with individuals who are seeking a real change in their life. Sometimes you are "tired of the rut I am in" or feeling that "something needs to change..I do not want to feel like this anymore." Sometimes you are struggling with "old issues" and sometimes it is more current stresses like anxiety, relationships, or just do not know what to do next; I believe when you are ready to make a change, having a supportive push can really work!
(719) 387-0439 View (719) 387-0439
Photo of Henri M. Shields-Lucero, LCSW, CADCIII, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Henri M. Shields-Lucero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCIII
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I have experience providing substance abuse and mental health counseling with adults and families, adolescents, at risk youth, LGBTQ youth, Veterans, foster parents and children.
Sometimes we can be unkind to ourselves, feel disconnected in our relationships or overwhelmed by life's problems. I believe counseling is a learning process. I will work with you to develop a compassionate understanding of who you are and new insight about areas in your life where you want support to change. I am passionate about working with individuals and families to support mental health and healing from addiction. I believe our well-being is informed by a healthy connection to family and community. In the therapy process I incorporate perspectives including relationship attachment, developing insight through mindfulness and understanding the effects of trauma.
I have experience providing substance abuse and mental health counseling with adults and families, adolescents, at risk youth, LGBTQ youth, Veterans, foster parents and children.
Sometimes we can be unkind to ourselves, feel disconnected in our relationships or overwhelmed by life's problems. I believe counseling is a learning process. I will work with you to develop a compassionate understanding of who you are and new insight about areas in your life where you want support to change. I am passionate about working with individuals and families to support mental health and healing from addiction. I believe our well-being is informed by a healthy connection to family and community. In the therapy process I incorporate perspectives including relationship attachment, developing insight through mindfulness and understanding the effects of trauma.
(541) 292-4777 View (541) 292-4777
Photo of Patrick Tobey, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patrick Tobey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
We all have trauma in our life, some have more; sexual abuse, military combat, gang violence, physical abuse, and abandonment.
Specialty Therapist providing treatment for a wide range of issues. Have you been to a lot of therapists or in therapy that doesn't seem to be going anywhere? Using cutting-edge methods, I can help reduce or eliminate symptoms quickly. I work with individual adults and couples. Sometimes, in life, our progress forward gets blocked by our emotions or past experiences I can help you heal the past traumas, big or small, and move toward a happy future for you and your loved ones. I accept Optum/United Health Care (UHC), or Self-Pay. -Telehealth/video is available as needed.
We all have trauma in our life, some have more; sexual abuse, military combat, gang violence, physical abuse, and abandonment.
Specialty Therapist providing treatment for a wide range of issues. Have you been to a lot of therapists or in therapy that doesn't seem to be going anywhere? Using cutting-edge methods, I can help reduce or eliminate symptoms quickly. I work with individual adults and couples. Sometimes, in life, our progress forward gets blocked by our emotions or past experiences I can help you heal the past traumas, big or small, and move toward a happy future for you and your loved ones. I accept Optum/United Health Care (UHC), or Self-Pay. -Telehealth/video is available as needed.
(702) 847-7576 View (702) 847-7576
Photo of Vera Dujovne Anderson, PhD, Psychologist
Vera Dujovne Anderson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
I practice individual, adult psychotherapy in Oregon and Utah (Utah is currently telehealth only), and I hold an Authorization to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (telehealth) in several other states as well. I work primarily with individuals experiencing anxiety or mood-related problems as well as those who are having difficulty with their relationships or difficulty coping with stressful life events. Since my VA internship, a portion of my practice has been working with veterans. I've been a provider for Returning Veterans Project and Give an Hour and have completed the MAPS training in MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD.
I practice individual, adult psychotherapy in Oregon and Utah (Utah is currently telehealth only), and I hold an Authorization to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (telehealth) in several other states as well. I work primarily with individuals experiencing anxiety or mood-related problems as well as those who are having difficulty with their relationships or difficulty coping with stressful life events. Since my VA internship, a portion of my practice has been working with veterans. I've been a provider for Returning Veterans Project and Give an Hour and have completed the MAPS training in MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD.
(503) 985-8927 View (503) 985-8927
Photo of Fumiyo Nishimoto, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fumiyo Nishimoto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in supporting individuals, couples, and families with mental health recovery, grief, loss, relationships, immigration/acculturation, racial identity, gender identity, transgender wellness, women’s wellness, body image, trauma, Ancestral/Intergenerational trauma, combat veterans, and performance anxiety for athletes.
Therapy is writing your own story as we embrace the ‘self as inherently fluid’ and that all individuals are capable of crafting new and empowering stories that include a new sense of self. This is a healing journey, and I'm here to connect with you to explore together the trauma, grief, and other challenging life experiences that prevent you from healing, growing and living the fulfilling life you are seeking.
I specialize in supporting individuals, couples, and families with mental health recovery, grief, loss, relationships, immigration/acculturation, racial identity, gender identity, transgender wellness, women’s wellness, body image, trauma, Ancestral/Intergenerational trauma, combat veterans, and performance anxiety for athletes.
Therapy is writing your own story as we embrace the ‘self as inherently fluid’ and that all individuals are capable of crafting new and empowering stories that include a new sense of self. This is a healing journey, and I'm here to connect with you to explore together the trauma, grief, and other challenging life experiences that prevent you from healing, growing and living the fulfilling life you are seeking.
(971) 231-2579 View (971) 231-2579
Photo of Dr. Carolyn A. Peterson, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Carolyn A. Peterson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
I also enjoy working with military families.
Are you caught in an unending cycle of feeling insufficient, regardless of your achievements or efforts? As you navigate various roles in your life – partner, friend, caregiver, parent/child, coworker, or manager do you constantly feel like you're falling short, despite your best efforts? Anxiety, depression, grief, burnout, and fear can be an overwhelming experience. You are “fine” and you’re waiting for that other shoe to drop. I specialize in helping adults struggling with trauma, grief, and life transitions by navigating intense emotions, finding peace, and rebuilding connections with themselves and others.
I also enjoy working with military families.
Are you caught in an unending cycle of feeling insufficient, regardless of your achievements or efforts? As you navigate various roles in your life – partner, friend, caregiver, parent/child, coworker, or manager do you constantly feel like you're falling short, despite your best efforts? Anxiety, depression, grief, burnout, and fear can be an overwhelming experience. You are “fine” and you’re waiting for that other shoe to drop. I specialize in helping adults struggling with trauma, grief, and life transitions by navigating intense emotions, finding peace, and rebuilding connections with themselves and others.
(971) 365-3817 View (971) 365-3817
Photo of Jacqueline Ilana Bradford - Westlake Counseling, LPC, MA MFT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Westlake Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA MFT, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
I often hear: "If only we could communicate better, the simplest of discussions become arguments." "I had an affair, I was so stupid, can you help me to heal my relationship?" "My spouse had an affair, I am devastated, I don't know if I should leave or stay?" "I told my spouse everything and the affair is over, why can't we just move on?" If any of these quotes sound true for you, I want you to know that you can learn to reduce conflicts to rebuild trust and intimacy; you can heal and repair your relationship after regrettable incidents, infidelities/affairs.
I often hear: "If only we could communicate better, the simplest of discussions become arguments." "I had an affair, I was so stupid, can you help me to heal my relationship?" "My spouse had an affair, I am devastated, I don't know if I should leave or stay?" "I told my spouse everything and the affair is over, why can't we just move on?" If any of these quotes sound true for you, I want you to know that you can learn to reduce conflicts to rebuild trust and intimacy; you can heal and repair your relationship after regrettable incidents, infidelities/affairs.
(503) 897-1974 View (503) 897-1974
Photo of Sean Wasson, MSW, CSWA
Sean Wasson
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
My approach to helping youth and teens overcome the symptoms they are experiencing begins with teaching them how to identify and express emotions. I utilize tools from Violet Oaklander’s work to teach youth how to express themselves, which leads to a greater understanding of what they are feeling in the moment. The follow-on effect is greater emotional regulation and communication of their needs. I help youth regulate their emotions by teaching mindfulness. Through mindfulness and focusing on the present moment, youth and teens feel relief from anticipatory anxiety, and depression from events in the past.
My approach to helping youth and teens overcome the symptoms they are experiencing begins with teaching them how to identify and express emotions. I utilize tools from Violet Oaklander’s work to teach youth how to express themselves, which leads to a greater understanding of what they are feeling in the moment. The follow-on effect is greater emotional regulation and communication of their needs. I help youth regulate their emotions by teaching mindfulness. Through mindfulness and focusing on the present moment, youth and teens feel relief from anticipatory anxiety, and depression from events in the past.
(503) 213-6846 View (503) 213-6846
Photo of Benjamin Randolph - Compassionate Interventions, MS, CADCIII, CAI, CTP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Compassionate Interventions
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, CADCIII, CAI, CTP
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I specialize in interventions, so my ideal client is the family member or friend of an addict. This "concerned other" is usually out of options and has lost hope. My job is to either re-instill hope or enhance the hope, so that the addict can be helped. With intervention, I use both the Johnson model and the ARISE model. With 16 years of experience conducting interventions, I have encountered most things that happen in an intervention, and can prepare the addict's family members and/or friends so they can walk through the intervention process with the least amount of anxiety.
I specialize in interventions, so my ideal client is the family member or friend of an addict. This "concerned other" is usually out of options and has lost hope. My job is to either re-instill hope or enhance the hope, so that the addict can be helped. With intervention, I use both the Johnson model and the ARISE model. With 16 years of experience conducting interventions, I have encountered most things that happen in an intervention, and can prepare the addict's family members and/or friends so they can walk through the intervention process with the least amount of anxiety.
(503) 379-9435 View (503) 379-9435
Photo of Chris Gorski, BS, MA, PCA, YT, MT
Chris Gorski
Professional Counselor Associate, BS, MA, PCA, YT, MT
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
I provide a safe, warm, nurturing space for my client to experience change. Let me help you transform your life. Are you overwhelmed with life? Feel like you can't get ahead no matter how hard you try? I will help you take charge of your life by equipping you with tools to transform yourself. I will help you navigate your everyday challenges that seem to obstruct your path to creating a life worth living that you are excited about. I also help people explore their spirituality. Were you raised in a rigid religion or have left one that dominated your life? Let's together create meaning in your new life.
I provide a safe, warm, nurturing space for my client to experience change. Let me help you transform your life. Are you overwhelmed with life? Feel like you can't get ahead no matter how hard you try? I will help you take charge of your life by equipping you with tools to transform yourself. I will help you navigate your everyday challenges that seem to obstruct your path to creating a life worth living that you are excited about. I also help people explore their spirituality. Were you raised in a rigid religion or have left one that dominated your life? Let's together create meaning in your new life.
(971) 265-6915 View (971) 265-6915
Photo of Sawyer Sheldon, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sawyer Sheldon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034  (Online Only)
Did you wake up this morning with a pit in your stomach? Are you feeling a sense of dread as you start your day? Are you feeling like you are never on top of work, school, relationships, parenting, or life in general? When was the last time you felt like you actually got anything on your mile long to-do list done? Are these “unprecedented times” wearing you down? Are you still thinking about that thing you said when you were hanging out with your friend? Are you feeling anxious about social commitments? Do you lay awake at night thinking about every little thing until you are spiraling out of control?
Did you wake up this morning with a pit in your stomach? Are you feeling a sense of dread as you start your day? Are you feeling like you are never on top of work, school, relationships, parenting, or life in general? When was the last time you felt like you actually got anything on your mile long to-do list done? Are these “unprecedented times” wearing you down? Are you still thinking about that thing you said when you were hanging out with your friend? Are you feeling anxious about social commitments? Do you lay awake at night thinking about every little thing until you are spiraling out of control?
(503) 300-5069 View (503) 300-5069
Photo of Colleen Loueda Struhar LaTendresse, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Colleen Loueda Struhar LaTendresse
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034  (Online Only)
Personal healing involves knowledge, intuition, and curiosity for the mysterious ways we transform ideas into reality- personal alchemy. I can help you identify your more mundane survival strategies, integrate the wisdom necessary to change, and access more power and ease. This service is right for people who want to develop their unique wisdom, self-expression, and personal gifts. Diversity is the strength of humanity.
Personal healing involves knowledge, intuition, and curiosity for the mysterious ways we transform ideas into reality- personal alchemy. I can help you identify your more mundane survival strategies, integrate the wisdom necessary to change, and access more power and ease. This service is right for people who want to develop their unique wisdom, self-expression, and personal gifts. Diversity is the strength of humanity.
(971) 606-5045 View (971) 606-5045
Photo of T. Stephen Pierce, Marriage & Family Therapist
T. Stephen Pierce
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034  (Online Only)
I’m Steve Pierce, a licensed marriage and family therapist since 2012. I’m also a veteran, and a former first responder; familiar with blended families, cultural diversity, trauma, grief, and loss. After I spent several years as a therapist for a county agency, I’m now in private practice providing services throughout California and Oregon by Zoom, specializing in couples and individual therapy. I want to hear your story and your hopes. I’m confident that I can help you achieve your desired changes to “live your best life."
I’m Steve Pierce, a licensed marriage and family therapist since 2012. I’m also a veteran, and a former first responder; familiar with blended families, cultural diversity, trauma, grief, and loss. After I spent several years as a therapist for a county agency, I’m now in private practice providing services throughout California and Oregon by Zoom, specializing in couples and individual therapy. I want to hear your story and your hopes. I’m confident that I can help you achieve your desired changes to “live your best life."
(541) 804-8741 View (541) 804-8741
Photo of Victoria K Miller, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria K Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034  (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression, past traumas, "people pleasing" stands in the way of self confidence and healthy relationships. Negative self talk spirals and can seem to take on a life of it's own. A cycle of anxiety and depression is hard to battle alone. With my help you will learn skills to combat anxiety and depression, to stop the negative self talk, and to work through past traumas. Along the way you will gain confidence, build healthy relationships, and live a more fulfilling life.
Anxiety, depression, past traumas, "people pleasing" stands in the way of self confidence and healthy relationships. Negative self talk spirals and can seem to take on a life of it's own. A cycle of anxiety and depression is hard to battle alone. With my help you will learn skills to combat anxiety and depression, to stop the negative self talk, and to work through past traumas. Along the way you will gain confidence, build healthy relationships, and live a more fulfilling life.
(925) 326-6718 View (925) 326-6718
Photo of David E Blakeslee - David E. Blakeslee, Psy.D., PC, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
David E. Blakeslee, Psy.D., PC
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Waitlist for new clients
Taking the first step to get help is often the most difficult, but it is often a hopeful sign that you are ready for growth and ready for change. Finding a compassionate, experienced psychologist at such a time will have the powerful benefit of moving you in a focused way on your needed areas of growth and discovering new areas of strength. Dr. Blakeslee has helped hundreds of individuals, scores of couples and dozens of families in his 20+ years of practice. The science of psychology has made treatment for depression, anxiety, trauma and dysfunctional relationships more successful.
Taking the first step to get help is often the most difficult, but it is often a hopeful sign that you are ready for growth and ready for change. Finding a compassionate, experienced psychologist at such a time will have the powerful benefit of moving you in a focused way on your needed areas of growth and discovering new areas of strength. Dr. Blakeslee has helped hundreds of individuals, scores of couples and dozens of families in his 20+ years of practice. The science of psychology has made treatment for depression, anxiety, trauma and dysfunctional relationships more successful.
(503) 925-6313 View (503) 925-6313
Photo of Gina L Mcwhorter, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gina L Mcwhorter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
Gina is a skilled and compassionate provider specializing in traumatic stress, narcissistic abuse recovery, and highly sensitive persons. Through a psychodynamic, mindbody lens, she compassionately guides clients beyond defenses to connect with wholeness and peace.
Gina is a skilled and compassionate provider specializing in traumatic stress, narcissistic abuse recovery, and highly sensitive persons. Through a psychodynamic, mindbody lens, she compassionately guides clients beyond defenses to connect with wholeness and peace.
(458) 209-2309 View (458) 209-2309
Photo of Kelly Prothero - Kelly Prothero, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Prothero, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034  (Online Only)
It's time to focus on you. When you put yourself last on the list, and stop responding to your own needs, feelings of unhappiness and disconnection often follow. You don't have to struggle with these feelings alone. When working with me, clients describe having a new therapeutic experience - one in which they see genuine and positive change manifest in themselves and their lives.
It's time to focus on you. When you put yourself last on the list, and stop responding to your own needs, feelings of unhappiness and disconnection often follow. You don't have to struggle with these feelings alone. When working with me, clients describe having a new therapeutic experience - one in which they see genuine and positive change manifest in themselves and their lives.
(628) 600-1741 View (628) 600-1741
Photo of Dr. Karen Chenier, PhD, LPC, R-DMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Karen Chenier
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I work primarily with adults, couples, and professionals in managing a wide range of mental health issues and challenges, such as Anxiety, Depression, Intimacy, Communication problems, Learning differences, Self-esteem, Health issues, Life Transitions, Grief & loss, Professional/Work issues, Family and Relationship stress and estrangement. We work together toward your goals in discovering and learning new ways of managing stress, anxiety, and depression that limit connection and options to move forward that are unique to you. Clients can develop, learn, and experience joy and meaning.
I work primarily with adults, couples, and professionals in managing a wide range of mental health issues and challenges, such as Anxiety, Depression, Intimacy, Communication problems, Learning differences, Self-esteem, Health issues, Life Transitions, Grief & loss, Professional/Work issues, Family and Relationship stress and estrangement. We work together toward your goals in discovering and learning new ways of managing stress, anxiety, and depression that limit connection and options to move forward that are unique to you. Clients can develop, learn, and experience joy and meaning.
(503) 738-1404 View (503) 738-1404
Photo of Melisa Finch, PhD, Psychologist
Melisa Finch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I believe therapy is a collaboration between the therapist and client who work together to help the client reach a greater understanding of themselves so they can live a richer, more fulfilling life. Together, we can work to improve your ability to overcome daily adversities and life’s greater challenges. My communication style is compassionate, encouraging, and solution-focused, tailored to your specific needs, and my goal is to ensure that you feel safe, heard and supported in your journey toward a greater sense of well-being.
I believe therapy is a collaboration between the therapist and client who work together to help the client reach a greater understanding of themselves so they can live a richer, more fulfilling life. Together, we can work to improve your ability to overcome daily adversities and life’s greater challenges. My communication style is compassionate, encouraging, and solution-focused, tailored to your specific needs, and my goal is to ensure that you feel safe, heard and supported in your journey toward a greater sense of well-being.
(503) 994-2914 View (503) 994-2914
Photo of Cary Lazara Coll, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cary Lazara Coll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Empowerment comes from being open to exploring your inner strength as a means of gaining insight and knowledge. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, compassionate space for self-discovery. Through the Empowerment Model I use an eclectic, client centered, and strength based approach to finding healing and growth in the midst of challenges. By exploring the origin of symptoms and how they influence thoughts and behaviors we can overcome obstacles to feeling genuine health and wellness.
Empowerment comes from being open to exploring your inner strength as a means of gaining insight and knowledge. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, compassionate space for self-discovery. Through the Empowerment Model I use an eclectic, client centered, and strength based approach to finding healing and growth in the midst of challenges. By exploring the origin of symptoms and how they influence thoughts and behaviors we can overcome obstacles to feeling genuine health and wellness.
(971) 351-0347 View (971) 351-0347
1

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.