Veterans Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of Reanna Irogoyen, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Reanna Irogoyen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
Navigating life transitions and trauma can be particularly challenging for Veterans and First Responders. The weight of these experiences often carries a unique set of emotions and struggles, from feeling disconnected and misunderstood to dealing with intense and persistent stress. If you're facing these challenges, know that your feelings are valid, and there is a path forward through personalized and compassionate care.
Navigating life transitions and trauma can be particularly challenging for Veterans and First Responders. The weight of these experiences often carries a unique set of emotions and struggles, from feeling disconnected and misunderstood to dealing with intense and persistent stress. If you're facing these challenges, know that your feelings are valid, and there is a path forward through personalized and compassionate care.
(971) 366-3364 View (971) 366-3364
Photo of Dr. Nancy Kao Rhiannon, Psychologist
Dr. Nancy Kao Rhiannon
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
I have also worked extensively with the LGBTQ and military communities.
As a psychologist, I evaluate and treat patients through a variety of methods, most typically being psychotherapy or talk therapy. Patients usually visit me because they have been experiencing depression, anxiety, stress or anger for a significant period of time and are seeking help.
I have also worked extensively with the LGBTQ and military communities.
As a psychologist, I evaluate and treat patients through a variety of methods, most typically being psychotherapy or talk therapy. Patients usually visit me because they have been experiencing depression, anxiety, stress or anger for a significant period of time and are seeking help.
(971) 290-2436 View (971) 290-2436
Photo of John Coyle, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Coyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, one of my primary intentions is to help my clients understand, respond to, successfully cope with, and make meaning of the difficulties they're going through. If you're dealing with symptoms of depression or anxiety, the impact of trauma or abuse, grief, or you suffer from symptoms of ADHD or Bipolar give me a call and let me help you achieve positive change, greater wellness, stability, and enrichment in life. I'm also a veteran of the US military, and so am uniquely qualified to understand the needs of veterans and their problems. I accept most major health insurance and private pay clients.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, one of my primary intentions is to help my clients understand, respond to, successfully cope with, and make meaning of the difficulties they're going through. If you're dealing with symptoms of depression or anxiety, the impact of trauma or abuse, grief, or you suffer from symptoms of ADHD or Bipolar give me a call and let me help you achieve positive change, greater wellness, stability, and enrichment in life. I'm also a veteran of the US military, and so am uniquely qualified to understand the needs of veterans and their problems. I accept most major health insurance and private pay clients.
(971) 339-0557 View (971) 339-0557
Photo of Joyce Yuan, PhD, Psychologist
Joyce Yuan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked extensively with young professionals, graduate and college students, and military veterans of all eras.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist interested in helping people alleviate their suffering, improve their relationships, and understand themselves better. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationships problems. I believe all people have positive potential that can sometimes be stifled and find it rewarding to help others work through their obstacles. I offer individual therapy and couples counseling and welcome clients of all ethnicities, genders, young adult through the elderly.
I have worked extensively with young professionals, graduate and college students, and military veterans of all eras.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist interested in helping people alleviate their suffering, improve their relationships, and understand themselves better. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationships problems. I believe all people have positive potential that can sometimes be stifled and find it rewarding to help others work through their obstacles. I offer individual therapy and couples counseling and welcome clients of all ethnicities, genders, young adult through the elderly.
(347) 690-7505 View (347) 690-7505
Photo of Fumiyo Nishimoto, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fumiyo Nishimoto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
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 Marcy Kokinda, CADC-II, QMHA-II, CGAC-R, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Marcy Kokinda
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC-II, QMHA-II, CGAC-R
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I draw from my own lived experiences as a mother, military veteran, member of the LGBTQ community, and person in recovery to offer compassionate, trauma-informed care, utilizing a strengths-based approach.
Accepting New Clients: Finding the right provider when you're struggling with substance abuse or a co-occurring disorder can be a daunting task, but I would like to take the fear and shame out of the process and let you know that change is possible if you're willing to take the first step. You may be someone seeking help for the first time or someone who has struggled with issues in the past, but no matter what brought you to this place, I would like to be an ally in your journey toward wellness. Client-centered therapy means that you get to be in control of the process, and I respect an individual's right to maintain autonomy.
I draw from my own lived experiences as a mother, military veteran, member of the LGBTQ community, and person in recovery to offer compassionate, trauma-informed care, utilizing a strengths-based approach.
Accepting New Clients: Finding the right provider when you're struggling with substance abuse or a co-occurring disorder can be a daunting task, but I would like to take the fear and shame out of the process and let you know that change is possible if you're willing to take the first step. You may be someone seeking help for the first time or someone who has struggled with issues in the past, but no matter what brought you to this place, I would like to be an ally in your journey toward wellness. Client-centered therapy means that you get to be in control of the process, and I respect an individual's right to maintain autonomy.
(503) 487-5052 View (503) 487-5052
Photo of Jacob Lehman, PsyD, Psychologist
Jacob Lehman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
My experiences have allowed me to work with older adults, adults, college and high school students, athletes, veterans, and individuals from numerous cultural backgrounds.
Getting started in therapy can feel daunting and I can help to make that experience easier for you. My clients most frequently describe me as genuine, easy to talk to, and compassionate. I understand that we all cope in different ways and welcome having periods of light conversation and humor along the way. I strive to genuinely get to know you and help you identify what is causing your distress, so we can work towards resolving it. I help my clients learn and strengthen the skills needed to navigate difficult life experiences more efficiently.
My experiences have allowed me to work with older adults, adults, college and high school students, athletes, veterans, and individuals from numerous cultural backgrounds.
Getting started in therapy can feel daunting and I can help to make that experience easier for you. My clients most frequently describe me as genuine, easy to talk to, and compassionate. I understand that we all cope in different ways and welcome having periods of light conversation and humor along the way. I strive to genuinely get to know you and help you identify what is causing your distress, so we can work towards resolving it. I help my clients learn and strengthen the skills needed to navigate difficult life experiences more efficiently.
(503) 828-1041 View (503) 828-1041
Photo of Kim Randle, CSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kim Randle
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I am passionate about the work I do and have almost a decade of experience working with people experiencing trauma and mental illness. My expertise includes helping people overcome issues around childhood trauma, sexual and domestic violence, military and first responder trauma, and more.
I am passionate about the work I do and have almost a decade of experience working with people experiencing trauma and mental illness. My expertise includes helping people overcome issues around childhood trauma, sexual and domestic violence, military and first responder trauma, and more.
(503) 445-8536 View (503) 445-8536
Photo of Dr. Carolyn A. Peterson, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Carolyn A. Peterson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97227
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 Kathleen Barnes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Barnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
My name is Kathleen Barnes, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated from University of Southern California with my MSW in children, family and military clinical social work. I have experience working with diverse populations using many counseling techniques to include Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Protocol, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma therapy, Motivational therapy and Brief Intervention Solution-based focused therapy. My experience is with individuals that struggle from stress and anxiety from everyday life to severe or mild mental health symptoms and trauma/PTSD.
My name is Kathleen Barnes, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated from University of Southern California with my MSW in children, family and military clinical social work. I have experience working with diverse populations using many counseling techniques to include Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Protocol, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma therapy, Motivational therapy and Brief Intervention Solution-based focused therapy. My experience is with individuals that struggle from stress and anxiety from everyday life to severe or mild mental health symptoms and trauma/PTSD.
(971) 320-7376 View (971) 320-7376
Photo of Jenny Park, LCSW, MSS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny Park
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
I am highly experienced with working with veterans, children, and families, people of color, and offer Korean speaking sessions when needed.
The practice of being human is utterly challenging and incredibly complex. I offer empathetic support for individuals, couples, and families who frequently fall back into their own negative thought patterns and family dynamics. Using a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychology, and a Family Systems approach, I can help you recognize and better understand how an individual action may affect yourself and others.
I am highly experienced with working with veterans, children, and families, people of color, and offer Korean speaking sessions when needed.
The practice of being human is utterly challenging and incredibly complex. I offer empathetic support for individuals, couples, and families who frequently fall back into their own negative thought patterns and family dynamics. Using a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychology, and a Family Systems approach, I can help you recognize and better understand how an individual action may affect yourself and others.
(503) 386-0985 View (503) 386-0985
Photo of Jorjan Parker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jorjan Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
I work differently, with different people, according to their needs and situation and have served hundreds of veterans suffering from military trauma.
What brings you to think of talking to someone, may have to do with personal or work relationships, with past or present trauma, with serious losses, and/or may be psychological in nature. Inner or outer obstacles may be shutting down access to inner resources and clarity, and, possibly, hope. Here, a safe therapeutic environment, where you are accompanied as you express the thoughts and feelings that occur to you about your situation, is needed. Unrushed, being accurately heard and responded to, you will gradually put together pieces of your own puzzle, leading to new insights and a sense of inner freedom.
I work differently, with different people, according to their needs and situation and have served hundreds of veterans suffering from military trauma.
What brings you to think of talking to someone, may have to do with personal or work relationships, with past or present trauma, with serious losses, and/or may be psychological in nature. Inner or outer obstacles may be shutting down access to inner resources and clarity, and, possibly, hope. Here, a safe therapeutic environment, where you are accompanied as you express the thoughts and feelings that occur to you about your situation, is needed. Unrushed, being accurately heard and responded to, you will gradually put together pieces of your own puzzle, leading to new insights and a sense of inner freedom.
(503) 764-2987 View (503) 764-2987
Photo of Matt Matteini, MPH, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matt Matteini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
My approach is unique in that it is informed personally by my engagement with the recovery community, academically by my background in public health, and professionally by my experience working with active duty military to treat trauma, loss, and addiction.
I work with clients seeking meaningful change. To recover authenticity, connection, and purpose back into life's experience. We work together to manage the impact of past events. More importantly, we find ways to transcend them in the present, building on strengths to find life balance. Since working with my first client, my clinical approach has evolved to focus on the mind-body connection. Today I often work with trauma, addiction, and life transitions. I am in recovery myself and deeply appreciate meaning making with clients. Your recovery should be a highly individualized experience. Please visit my website for details!
My approach is unique in that it is informed personally by my engagement with the recovery community, academically by my background in public health, and professionally by my experience working with active duty military to treat trauma, loss, and addiction.
I work with clients seeking meaningful change. To recover authenticity, connection, and purpose back into life's experience. We work together to manage the impact of past events. More importantly, we find ways to transcend them in the present, building on strengths to find life balance. Since working with my first client, my clinical approach has evolved to focus on the mind-body connection. Today I often work with trauma, addiction, and life transitions. I am in recovery myself and deeply appreciate meaning making with clients. Your recovery should be a highly individualized experience. Please visit my website for details!
(503) 374-1882 View (503) 374-1882
Photo of Aart Lovenstein, PsyD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aart Lovenstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I have extensive international, civil, military and university (adjunct professor) experience in teaching, supervision and counseling clients in coping with trauma and distress Furthermore, experienced working with multi-cultural and minority issues, interfaith and blended families.
It is my belief that even though people seem to differ in their inborn ability to handle life's stresses, their resiliency and sense of mastery can be cultivated. My therapeutic approach is to help my clients live a more hopeful and meaningful life. Being the oldest child of a Dutch family of Holocaust survivors, I "learned" how trauma and resiliency gets transmitted from one generation to the next. My fascination of learning how the body keeps the score, my interest in helping people be securely attached and engaged with each other all brought me to this exciting calling.
I have extensive international, civil, military and university (adjunct professor) experience in teaching, supervision and counseling clients in coping with trauma and distress Furthermore, experienced working with multi-cultural and minority issues, interfaith and blended families.
It is my belief that even though people seem to differ in their inborn ability to handle life's stresses, their resiliency and sense of mastery can be cultivated. My therapeutic approach is to help my clients live a more hopeful and meaningful life. Being the oldest child of a Dutch family of Holocaust survivors, I "learned" how trauma and resiliency gets transmitted from one generation to the next. My fascination of learning how the body keeps the score, my interest in helping people be securely attached and engaged with each other all brought me to this exciting calling.
(503) 676-6661 View (503) 676-6661
Photo of Destiny Vega, MA , LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Destiny Vega
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA , LMFTA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
My passion is to work with BIPOC women and families surrounding issues involving disabilities, trauma, relationship struggles, blended families, and the military. It is important for us to discuss values that you may hold closely so we can work toward aligning those values with your therapeutic goals. I want to support your healing process and help you tap into your inner self. I will challenge you and encourage you to dig deep during our time together. I don’t think that therapy has to be serious all the time; I believe that therapy is something where you should laugh, cry, yell, and feel all of the feelings!
My passion is to work with BIPOC women and families surrounding issues involving disabilities, trauma, relationship struggles, blended families, and the military. It is important for us to discuss values that you may hold closely so we can work toward aligning those values with your therapeutic goals. I want to support your healing process and help you tap into your inner self. I will challenge you and encourage you to dig deep during our time together. I don’t think that therapy has to be serious all the time; I believe that therapy is something where you should laugh, cry, yell, and feel all of the feelings!
(971) 791-2527 View (971) 791-2527
Photo of Olivia Norton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Olivia Norton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
I've worked in a variety of settings including teen residential, running groups in hospital intensive outpatient, and readjustment counseling with Veterans.
Hello! I am currently accepting new clients, but I do have a wait-list. My goal is to provide a space for you to develop and work toward goals that feel relevant and doable. We can work on developing healthy coping strategies for current stressors, increasing understanding around past experiences, as well as increasing awareness in the present. I believe therapy should be productive and enlightening, but I also know it's uncomfortable and vulnerable. I will ask for your honest feedback throughout the therapy process so that I can adjust my approach as needed.
I've worked in a variety of settings including teen residential, running groups in hospital intensive outpatient, and readjustment counseling with Veterans.
Hello! I am currently accepting new clients, but I do have a wait-list. My goal is to provide a space for you to develop and work toward goals that feel relevant and doable. We can work on developing healthy coping strategies for current stressors, increasing understanding around past experiences, as well as increasing awareness in the present. I believe therapy should be productive and enlightening, but I also know it's uncomfortable and vulnerable. I will ask for your honest feedback throughout the therapy process so that I can adjust my approach as needed.
(503) 400-3544 View (503) 400-3544
Photo of Julia McGowen-Bienkowski - Calyx and Bloom Counseling and Wellness Coaching, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Calyx and Bloom Counseling and Wellness Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
I specialize in dual diagnosis care and PTSD and work with military veterans/first responders, rape/assault survivors, families affected by climate change/natural disasters, school shooting/mass shootings and terrorism.
Traditional talk therapy and medications are only part of the equation! My integrative approach draws from evidence based interventions to treat addiction, process trauma/loss and improve overall mental health and wellness. Get back into the driver's seat of your own brain so that you can thrive instead of just survive!
I specialize in dual diagnosis care and PTSD and work with military veterans/first responders, rape/assault survivors, families affected by climate change/natural disasters, school shooting/mass shootings and terrorism.
Traditional talk therapy and medications are only part of the equation! My integrative approach draws from evidence based interventions to treat addiction, process trauma/loss and improve overall mental health and wellness. Get back into the driver's seat of your own brain so that you can thrive instead of just survive!
(541) 262-0226 View (541) 262-0226
Photo of Rebecca Moore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Rebecca Moore, LCSW, and I'm all about getting results for my clients. As a therapist specializing in Trauma disorders and PTSD, I'm trained in EMDR and Advanced CBT. I take a direct and practical approach to help my clients overcome life's challenges. I have a passion for supporting veterans, drawing from my own understanding of their unique experiences. Plus, I've had great success working with kids for 10 years. If you're ready to make positive changes in your life reach out to me today!
Rebecca Moore, LCSW, and I'm all about getting results for my clients. As a therapist specializing in Trauma disorders and PTSD, I'm trained in EMDR and Advanced CBT. I take a direct and practical approach to help my clients overcome life's challenges. I have a passion for supporting veterans, drawing from my own understanding of their unique experiences. Plus, I've had great success working with kids for 10 years. If you're ready to make positive changes in your life reach out to me today!
(458) 236-3262 View (458) 236-3262
Photo of Valerie Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
As a United States Navy veteran and member of the mobile crisis response team, I have experience providing mental health care to service members, veterans, law enforcement, and first responders.
Embarking on the journey of therapy can be both daunting and brave. If you're struggling with trauma-related disorders, PTSD, anxiety, or depression, or if you're a veteran, first responder, healthcare provider, survivor of sexual assault, or child abuse, I'm here for you. Your needs for empathy, understanding, and healing are at the forefront of my person-centered approach. I'm dedicated to walking alongside you in your healing process, providing a safe space for your journey towards inner peace and resilience.
As a United States Navy veteran and member of the mobile crisis response team, I have experience providing mental health care to service members, veterans, law enforcement, and first responders.
Embarking on the journey of therapy can be both daunting and brave. If you're struggling with trauma-related disorders, PTSD, anxiety, or depression, or if you're a veteran, first responder, healthcare provider, survivor of sexual assault, or child abuse, I'm here for you. Your needs for empathy, understanding, and healing are at the forefront of my person-centered approach. I'm dedicated to walking alongside you in your healing process, providing a safe space for your journey towards inner peace and resilience.
(458) 237-4749 View (458) 237-4749
Photo of Henri M. Shields-Lucero, LCSW, CADCIII, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Henri M. Shields-Lucero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCIII
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
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
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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.