Podcasts about vet centers

The VA is adding Vet Centers all over the country. Will Flores, a retired US Coast Guard Senior Chief Petty Officer talks with Joe about the Tampa Center and how they offer confidential help for Veterans, service members, and their families at no cost in a non-medical setting. Their services include counseling for needs such as depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and the psychological effects of military sexual trauma (MST). Our library of shows can be found at www.veteranscornerradio.comJoin us on Facebook at the page Veterans Corner RadioYou can contact our host Joe Muhlberger at joseph.muhlberger@gmail.com

Commander Desmond Walker (USS Stout) checked into the pod for a conversation that we'd been waiting to have. In honor of Suicide Prevention Month, they touch on the importance of mental health awareness, going into a very stressful holiday season. They also discuss the disconnect between some Navy policies and their implementation at the command level. Commander Walker discusses his personal experience of joining the Navy and whether his upbringing in Mississippi had an impact on his outlook as an African American Sailor. Damo asks him about any experiences with racism in Mississippi. He discusses his enlisted life, including his deployments and the challenges of being separated from his wife. Cdr. Walker also talks about his transition to becoming an officer and the importance of mentorship and teamwork. He highlights his various assignments and leadership roles, emphasizing the need for empathy and open communication within the command structure. CDR Walker details his leadership philosophy. Damo opens up a discussion on the “us versus them” mentality and the importance of seeing leaders as part of the team. What are the biggest differences between an XO tour and a CO tour? They also touch on the importance of using social media to celebrate and engage with sailors, as well as the different standards of accountability for khaki and junior enlisted personnel. Damo highlights his appreciation for the growth of the podcast's audience. Are Khaki and junior enlisted Sailors held to different standards when it comes to corrective actions for disciplinary issues? The pod has a convo about the need for leaders to make timely decisions, have difficult conversations, and take appropriate action to maintain discipline and uphold standards. CDR Walker details what a “loss of confidence” means for a Commanding Officer. They also touch on the importance of diversity and inclusion in the Navy and the challenges faced by African-American officers. Cdr. Walker reflects on a mentor who inspired him in his early as an enlisted Sailor. Cdr. Walker honors the hard work of his crew on the USS Stout. He emphasizes the need for transparency, communication, and mentorship in creating a positive and inclusive culture. As a CO, how does he prepare his crew and family for deployment? Cdr. Walker reflects on the mentors and leaders who have influenced his career, from his early days in the Navy to his current command. He highlights the importance of investing in others and the impact that strong leadership can have on personal and professional growth. He emphasizes the need for leaders to see and appreciate the individuality of their team members and to assess their performance based on a known metric. Cdr. Walker concludes by sharing his motivation to continue serving in the Navy and the responsibility he feels to be an example and representation for others. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely' podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.   To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please contact us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com.     Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely' podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast   Cdr. Walker's Book Recommendations: The Right to Lead (John C. Maxwell) - https://lifeandleadership.com/book-summaries/maxwell-the-right-to-lead/ Black Officer, White Navy (Reuben Keith Green) - https://www.kentuckypress.com/9781985900295/black-officer-white-navy/ It Worked For Me (Colin Powell) - https://www.harpercollins.com/products/it-worked-for-me-colin-powell?variant=32129897431074       Suicide Prevention Month Resources: The following resources are available 24/7 for mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual support:   - National Suicide Hotline: Dial 988   - Veterans/Military Crisis Line: Dial 988 (press 1) or Text 838255   - Psychological Health Outreach Program (PHOP): 1-866-578-PHOP (7467)    - Military OneSource: 800-342-9647 / [www.militaryonesource.mil](https://www.militaryonesource.mil)   - Vet Centers: 877-WAR-VETS (877-927-8387) / [www.vetcenter.va.gov](https://www.vetcenter.va.gov)   - DON Civilian Employee Assistance Program (DONCEAP): 844-DONCEAP (1-844-366-2327) / [www.magellanascend.com](https://www.magellanascend.com)   - Local Resources: Fleet and Family Support Centers, Marine and Family Services, Military Family Life Counselors, chaplains, and your leadership       Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

In this Episode of A Hard Look, ALR Senior Technology Editor, Bennett J. Nuss interviews Professor James Ridgway about the practical effects of an ambiguous ambiguity doctrine as promulgated by Chevron, using Veteran's Law as a case example. This discussion ranges from a discussion of the history of Veterans Law, a critical examination of the motivators within administrative agencies which may contribute to ineffectiveness and court challenges, and theorizing about how iterative learning may improve agency rulemaking. This episode was produced by ALR Technology Editor Anthony Aviza. --- Recommended Reading: This Episode's TranscriptJ.B. Rule and James Salzman, Mozart and the Red Queen: The Problem of Regulatory Accretion in the Administrative State. Kent Barnett and Christopher J. Walker, Chevron in the Circuit Courts If a military veteran you know is in need of assistance, you can find Vet Centers for Readjustment Counseling as well as information regarding benefits at www.va.gov.

IN THE NEWS Suicide surges among soldiers not inherently tied to wars, according to a study published in the May issue of Psychiatry Research. THIS WEEK'S GUEST VA Vet Centers Chief Readjustment Counseling Officer Mike Fisher joins us to talk about the services provided by Vet Centers, scholarship opportunities available through the Vet Center Scholarship program, and future growth and expansion of Vet Centers across the nation. RAPID FIRE American Legion Removes Confederate Flag After Vet's Query Legionnaires warned to not download unauthorized My Legion app  Fred Brock Post 828 honors Vietnam veterans, family members during National Vietnam War Veterans Day Special Guest: Mike Fisher.

Have you ever struggled with anxiety? Has anxiety caused your quality of life to suffer? Anxiety is real and affects so many people. Mental health is as important as physical health and so we want to dive deep into what causes anxiety, how it manifests physically and mentally in a person, and how it can be treated. Today on The Hormone Genius Podcast we had the honor of interviewing Catherine DiNuzzo. Catherine MA is a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice, who also operates Sacred Heart Mental Wellness. She utilizes traditional cognitive-behavioral counseling practices all through a Christian/Catholic lens. ​Catherine earned her Master's Degree in Counseling and Human Services from the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs. Prior to her private practice, Catherine worked for several years in both schools and in agency counseling, namely with Veterans and services such as Veterans Upward Bound and Vet Centers, working with PTSD. She specializes in helping clients to overcome anxiety and depression, as well as other concerns. She has spoken internationally on the topics of mental wellness, as well as for FOCUS, EWTN-Vatican, The Military Council of Catholic Women, and more. Catherine and her husband, Dave, live in a small rural town in the middle of Kansas with their four amazing children. Find out more about her practice here: https://www.sacredheartmentalwellness.com/about Opinions, statements, and beliefs of our interviewees are not necessarily a reflection of the HG podcast's beliefs and opinions as a whole. Medical disclaimer: The information presented in The Hormone Genius Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for actual medical or mental health advice from a doctor, psychologist, or any other medical or mental health professional.

Broken Promises ~ Compromised Mental Health Care, Counselor Burnout & Retaliation at VAOur Veterans are not numbers! Suzi is joined by Ted Blickwedel, Retired Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel, combat veteran and Licensed Clinical Social Worker, about compromised mental health care and counsel burnout in VA Vet Centers. Ted's journey from clinical social worker employed by the VA to today has been quite a road of discovery, hardship and disappointment in the VA system. Ted's expectation of quality care for his fellow men and women of service who need the support and mental health care from the VA was and is one top tier. Ted experienced first hand the lack of support as a clinician, lack of quality care for his patients and sadly the retaliation of speaking up about the injustice to both veterans needing help and those providing the help. Ted's BioRetired Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel and combat veteran who became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker after he retired from the military. He worked as a counselor at the VA VET Center in Warwick, RI from 2009 to 2018 where he provided mental health care for fellow veterans. In 2017, during his tenure at the VET Center, he began to ‘speak truth to power' in an effort to have VA VET Center Management revise their clinical productivity policies that were harmful to counselors and compromising quality care for veterans. His subsequent whistleblowing campaign came at great price, personally, professionally, financially and health wise. He is currently urging the United States Congress to pass legislation that has been introduced to the House and Senate Veterans Affairs Committees, as a result of a federal GAO investigation he helped instigate which substantiated his allegations.  This legislation will protect the quality of services to our veterans and their families, as well as safeguard the welfare of counselors who care for them at over 300 VET Centers nationwide. Blickwedel's crusade to rectify compromised mental health care and counselor well-being within the VA VET Center program has been featured on NBC and NPR, to include the Military Times, other publications and local news broadcasts.Energy Psychology (EP)Association for Comprehensive Energy Psychology (ACEP)www.energypsych.orgveterans.energypsych.orghttps://www.vabreakingpromises.com/Senate: S. 1944 - Vet Center Improvement Act of 2021Music credit to Kalvin Love for the podcast's theme song “Bee Your Best Self”Contact Suzi at suzigma@gmail.com or (818) 470-2013 and share your story.vetsandplayers.orgwildhorserescue.org Visit our webpage at cominghomewell.comInterested in sponsoring our podcasts email us at cominghomewell@gmail.comFollow us on our socialsYouTube @cominghomewellbehindtheserviceInstagram @cominghomewell_btsFacebook at Coming Home WellLinkedIn at Coming Home WellTwitter @ComingHomeWellThank you for listening!

*Please note, this episode includes descriptions of domestic violence and an active shooting*  I wish I had your job! If you've ever heard that and cringed – chances are people have a skewed idea of what you actually do. No one knows this to be more true that NPS LE Rangers. Yes, they are employed in some of the most beautiful places on Earth - but they also hold some of the most dangerous jobs in the world, and are often not recognized for it. When an active shooter enters Mount Rainier National Park on New Years day 2012, Margaret Anderson would pay the ultimate sacrifice to keep the people and the place she loved the most, safe.  If you or someone you know are experiencing PTSD or other trauma related symptoms and are in need of support, please visit National Center for PTSD . To find a community based counseling center near you, please visit Vet Centers. The VA Crisis Line can be reached 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255. If you or someone you know are experiencing domestic violence and are in need of support, please visit The Hotline . The National Domestic Violence Line can be reached 24/7 at 1-800-799-7233. You can check out Wild Lives HERE We love our National Parks and we know you do too but when you're out there, remember to enjoy the view but watch your back. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe from wherever you're listening to NPAD! Become part of our Outsider family on Patreon to gain access to ad-free episodes, bonus content, and more. Follow our socials Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. To share a Trail Tale, suggest a story, access merch, and browse our book recommendations - head over to our website. Thank you so much to our partners, check them out! BetterHelp: National Park After Dark is sponsored by BetterHelp. Get 10% off your first month of online therapy by using our link. Prose: Use our link for a free in-depth hair consultation and 15% off your first order. Hello Fresh: Use our link and code npad21 for 21 free meals plus free shipping. Sources: Seattle Times, Outside Online, Wikipedia, NPS, KIRO7, Mountain View Funeral Home,  NPR, PEER, The Mountain News

Today we're thrilled to speak with Justyn Charon of the Providence Vet Center! Justyn runs the outreach program there, and Vet Centers are community-based counseling centers that help make a successful transition from military to civilian life, or after a traumatic event experienced in the military. Find out more at: https://www.vetcenter.va.gov/ https://rielderinfo.com/

Vet Centers provide a wide range of counseling services to veterans, and their families, which is especially important to discuss during Suicide Prevention Month. We learned more from Michael Fisher, VHA's Chief Officer of Readjustment Counseling Service.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ron doesn't understand apple picking, melon squeezing, fire pits, and leaf raking. Other than that, he's good..... Guest: Michael Fisher about Vet Centers

In this episode, Chaplain Scott talks with Mr. Steven DeLuna and Ms. Vicki Farnsworth, of the Oregon National Guard's Resiliency, Risk Reduction, and Suicide Prevention program, part of the Service Member and Family Support (SMFS) directorate at the Joint Force Headquarters in Salem, Oregon. September is National Suicide Prevention Month. Chaplain, Steven, and Vicki discuss resiliency, why it's important to talk about suicide prevention, some of the training available to Service Members, and what's happening for Suicide Prevention Month. SHOW NOTES: Oregon National Guard Service Member and Family Support (SMFS)—provides information and resources for our Service Members, their Families, and the communities in which they live: https://oregon.gov/omd/ONG/smfs, or 971-355-2389 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline—If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States. Call or text 988 or live chat at https://988lifeline.org Military OneSource: www.militaryonesource.mil giveanhour—free and confidential mental health support for military, Veterans, and Families: https://giveanhour.org/military/ Vet Centers—community-based counseling centers that provide a wide range of social and psychological services to eligible Veterans, active duty service members, including National Guard and Reserve components, and their Families: www.vetcenter.va.gov (U.S. Army National Guard audio engineering by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

(Part 2) There are a myriad of ways that veterans find solace after service. Many are surprised to learn how prevalent the arts are in the veteran community, and how effective visual art and creative writing can be in helping a veteran to express him/herself.From www.artsforallwi.org :"ARTS for ALL Wisconsin's Veterans Arts Studios were formed in partnership with Vet Centers in Wisconsin to engage veterans with disabilities in art making experiences. Veterans programs are free, and expanding to welcome veterans with disabilities from the public as well as Vet Center clients."Questions? Comments? Continue the discussion by requesting access to our exclusive WVF Facebook Group.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Wisconsin Veterans Forward is brought to you by the Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce, a nonprofit organization that serves veterans and military families by supporting veteran owned and veteran-friendly businesses throughout the state. On behalf of our members, we serve as an advocate for Wisconsin's veteran business community and promote economic opportunity for military veterans, military families, and veteran-friendly businesses.Follow us on all platforms: https://linktr.ee/Wivetschamber Intro & Outro Themes: Barry Dallas - I'm Gone (https://uppbeat.io/t/barry-dallas/im-gone)Noise Cake - Light It Up (https://uppbeat.io/t/noise-cake/light-it-up)

(Part 1) There are a myriad of ways that veterans find solace after service. Many are surprised to learn how prevalent the arts are in the veteran community, and how effective visual art and creative writing can be in helping a veteran to express him/herself.From www.artsforallwi.org :"ARTS for ALL Wisconsin's Veterans Arts Studios were formed in partnership with Vet Centers in Wisconsin to engage veterans with disabilities in art making experiences. Veterans programs are free, and expanding to welcome veterans with disabilities from the public as well as Vet Center clients."Questions? Comments? Continue the discussion by requesting access to our exclusive WVF Facebook Group.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Wisconsin Veterans Forward is brought to you by the Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce, a nonprofit organization that serves veterans and military families by supporting veteran owned and veteran-friendly businesses throughout the state. On behalf of our members, we serve as an advocate for Wisconsin's veteran business community and promote economic opportunity for military veterans, military families, and veteran-friendly businesses.Follow us on all platforms: https://linktr.ee/Wivetschamber Intro & Outro Themes: Barry Dallas - I'm Gone (https://uppbeat.io/t/barry-dallas/im-gone)Noise Cake - Light It Up (https://uppbeat.io/t/noise-cake/light-it-up)

Original Air Date - 9/25/20192019 marks the 40th Anniversary of  VA's Vet Centers. They started as outreach for Vietnam Veterans who did not utilize the VA as much as WWII Veterans.This week's interview is Pennsylvania National Guard Veteran Michael Fisher who is the Senior Readjustment Counselor. He leads and has direct oversight of over 300 Vet Centers, 80  Mobile Vet Centers and the  Vet Center Call Center. We broke it all down - how vet centers started, their differences between them and VA Medical Centers, their services and who is eligible. Borne the Battle Veteran of the Week: Army Veteran Bernadette Agnes Payla Miller

Senator Max Cleland was a true American hero. One of the finest, most selfless leaders of our time. He was a titan. And his tremendous impact was second only to his huge heart. Even in these last few difficult months before he died, he was a fighter—and a happy warrior. And Max's passing comes the week of Veterans Day. Max defined what it means to be an American veteran. And what it means for veterans to continue to serve after they take off the uniform. And after tragedy. He's the godfather of modern veterans affairs and advocacy--and he's forever stronger at the broken places.  In this Veterans Day special episode, our host and Army veteran Paul Rieckhoff reflects on the life and legacy of his friend, mentor and personal hero, Max Cleland. And in order to even begin to properly tell Max's story, we hear from a man who knew him better than almost anyone else. Another hero, another mentor, another Vietnam veteran, another son of the south, another true American hero: Shad Meshad. Shad has known Max for over 45 years. And in this time of mourning, and reflection, and especially this Veterans Day, he is the person we most need to hear from.  They call him the Mad Man. For more than five decades, National Veterans Foundation Founder and President Shad Meshad has been one of the most important veterans advocates in the world. He is a therapist for Veterans and an advocate for Veterans' rights. After getting his master's degree in psychiatric social work from Florida State University, he enlisted in the army in 1970 and served as a counselor for U.S. soldiers in Vietnam. That was years before we knew this was really a thing. He'll tell you more about that, the Max Cleland most people never knew, and all the lessons we can all learn from Max's amazing life. You can support this show and join our dynamic community of listeners by joining the IA Patreon community. You'll get exclusive access to events, guests, merch discounts, and special content. And you'll help us keep speaking independent truth to power.  You can also WATCH the full conversation in video with Paul and Shad here. Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  Stay vigilant, America.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some Frederick County Public Schools are expected to host some COVID-19 vaccination clinics for students. Citizens have a new way to interact with Frederick County Government called FCG Fix It. The Veteran Outreach Event will promote services available throughout Frederick County and surrounding areas by the YMCA and Vet Centers. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Abrams reflects on the current situation in Afghanistan and reads a letter published on Aug. 18, 2021 from Gen. David Berger and Sgt. Maj. Troy Black to Marines. We know many of our podcast listeners are FourBlock program alumni and people who are very involved in our community and our programming. Just know we are always here for you. You can reach out anytime, and we will make sure you have the support that you need. If you or a family member is in need of additional support, consider the following resources: Veteran Crisis Line: If you are experiencing a crisis or need someone to talk to, call 1-800-273-8255 and then PRESS 1 or visit http://www.veterancrisisline.net/. VA Medical Centers: For emergency mental health care, you can also go directly to your local VA medical center 24/7 regardless of your discharge status or enrollment in other VA health care. You can find your nearest location here: https://www.va.gov/find-locations. Vet Centers: Vet Center counselors and outreach staff, many of whom are veterans themselves, are experienced and prepared to discuss the tragedies of war, loss, grief and transition after trauma. You can find your nearest location here: https://www.va.gov/find-locations (select Vet Centers).  

There are veterans from over a dozen wars and military operations living among us right now. While Minnesota ranks right in the middle for the number of Veterans living in our state, we lack Vet Centers on a per-capita basis. Today we hear from two Veterans who are advocating for more Vet Centers in underserved regions, such as Central Minnesota. Guests: Kathy Marshik , Veteran Service Officer, Morrison County Phil Ringstrom, Veterans Advocate Show Notes: Vet Centers Representatives to contact: Tom Emmer >>Support Our Podcast! One-time donations and Patron subscriptions

Matt Standish from the Bay County Vet Center joins us to talk about the "best kept secret in the VA".  Matt informs us of all the  free, confidential services available at the Vet Center for veterans and their families.  The Vet Center in Bay County, FL is just one of 300 Vet Centers in the U.S.   After talking about the Vet Center, we couldn't help asking about Matt's active duty experiences in the US Air Force, deployments and his book.  He shares personal tools that he used as First Sergeant to keep up morale and build resiliency."Vet Centers are community-based counseling centers that provide a wide range of social and psychological services, including professional readjustment counseling to eligible Veterans, active duty service members, including National Guard and Reserve components, and their families. Readjustment counseling is offered to make a successful transition from military to civilian life or after a traumatic event experienced in the military. Individual, group, marriage and family counseling is offered in addition to referral and connection to other VA or community benefits and services. Vet Center counselors and outreach staff, many of whom are Veterans themselves, are experienced and prepared to discuss the tragedies of war, loss, grief and transition after trauma." - Vet Centers (Readjustment Counseling) Home (va.gov)Bay County Vet Center3109 Minnesota Ave, Suite 101Panama City, FL 32405Phone: 850-522-6102Bay County Vet Center - Locations (va.gov)how ya doing? | Alignment Bay County

Good Morning Veterans, Family, and Friends, welcome back to the FOURTEENTH EPISODE of the Veteran Doctor. On this week's podcast, we will discuss PTSD and Tough Months. We will also continue our fun facts of UBI (Useful Bits of Information) and Veteran News, so stick around for the program! Different times of the year become very busy for many people, but for many veterans this can cause tough times when many barriers develop with many different obstacles like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Many people have limited knowledge on this issue, except for what the media portrays it as, which is virtually untrue. Here are some facts to educate you on this disorder that challenges many veterans and can give you some knowledge to help these veterans in many ways. Understanding PTSD in veterans Many veterans have a hard time readjusting to life outside of the military. Many always feel on edge, emotionally numb and disconnected, or close to panicking or exploding. For all too many veterans, these are common experiences—lingering symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It’s hard living with untreated PTSD and, with long Veterans Affairs (VA) wait times, it’s easy to get discouraged. But many can feel better and get started today, even while waiting for professional treatment, by being proactive and educating themselves on the disorder itself and things to help relieve symptoms. What causes PTSD? Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sometimes known as shell shock or combat stress, occurs after you experience severe trauma or a life-threatening event. It’s normal for a veteran’s mind and body to be in shock after such an event, but this normal response becomes PTSD when their nervous system gets “stuck.” A Veterans nervous system has two automatic or reflexive ways of responding to stressful events: Mobilization, or fight-or-flight, occurs when you need to defend yourself or survive the danger of a combat situation. Your heart pounds faster, your blood pressure rises, and your muscles tighten, increasing your strength and reaction speed. Once the danger has passed, your nervous system calms your body, lowering your heart rate and blood pressure and winding back down to its normal balance. Immobilization occurs when you’ve experienced too much stress in a situation, and even though the danger has passed, you find yourself “stuck.” Your nervous system cannot return to its normal state of balance, and you’re unable to move on from the event. This is PTSD. Recovering from PTSD involves transitioning out of the mental and emotional war zone you’re still living in and helping your nervous system become “unstuck.” Symptoms of PTSD in veterans While veterans develop symptoms of PTSD in the hours or days following a traumatic event, sometimes symptoms don’t surface for months or even years after you return from deployment. While PTSD develops differently in each veteran, there are four symptom clusters: Recurrent, intrusive reminders of the traumatic event, including distressing thoughts, nightmares, and flashbacks, where you feel like the event is happening again. You may experience extreme emotional and physical reactions to reminders of the trauma, such as panic attacks, uncontrollable shaking, and heart palpitations. Extreme avoidance of things that remind you of the traumatic event, including people, places, thoughts, or situations you associate with the bad memories. This includes withdrawing from friends and family and losing interest in everyday activities. Adverse changes in your thoughts and mood, such as exaggerated negative beliefs about yourself or the world and persistent feelings of fear, guilt, or shame. You may notice a diminished ability to experience positive emotions. Being on guard all the time, jumpy, and emotionally reactive, as indicated by irritability, anger, reckless behavior, difficulty sleeping, trouble concentrating, and hypervigilance. Here are some resources or ideas to help veterans experiencing PTSD events or having issues. Help for Veterans Life in the military has taught you to be strong in the face of some of life's most challenging obstacles. It's also taught you to expect the unexpected. As a veteran, you know hardships can happen in every corner of life. If you or someone you know needs support, your military family is committed to helping. Assistance is at hand. Non-medical counseling for veterans When life throws you a curveball, you might need to talk to someone who gets it. Veterans have several options for confidential non-medical counseling. To receive non-medical counseling from Military OneSource as a veteran, you must be within 365 days of separation from the military. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers the Vet Center Program that provides quality readjustment counseling. If you have served in any combat zone, you and your family are eligible. Vet Centers can be found all across the U.S. Risk factors and treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder People who live through a traumatic event sometimes suffer its effects long after the danger has passed. Several factors play a role in developing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, so there is no way to know who will or won’t experience it. The good news is treatment is available, and early treatment may help reduce long-term symptoms. Alcohol and substance abuse programs While anyone can be at risk of alcohol and substance abuse, there are several aspects of military life that can trigger it. Understand the signs of a substance abuse problem. If you find yourself or know someone repeatedly engaging in activities that have a negative impact on your life, you might be engaging in addictive behavior. Learn more about the signs. You can also find support through Alcoholics Anonymous and other similar programs. To find a program near you, call SAHMSA's National Helpline at 800-662-4357 or find treatment centers online. The VA provides effective treatment services for all eligible veterans. Options include therapy as well as medications in some cases. To get help, speak with your existing VA healthcare provider or call 800-827-1000. Housing assistance and help for homeless veterans Delinquency and assistance for housing loans Veterans at risk of becoming homeless can always call or visit their local VA medical center or Community Resource and Referral Center for assistance. Veteran homelessness The VA, in collaboration with other government offices and partners, offers programs such as Supportive Housing, Homeless Provider Grants, Enhanced-Used Lease, and Acquired Property Sales for Homeless Providers. Help for suicide prevention If you’re having suicidal thoughts or you're concerned about a loved one, don't hesitate. Have a confidential talk with a professional who knows how to help. The Veterans Crisis Line is always open. Call: 1-800-273-8255 then Press 1. Call for help or chat online 24/7 at no cost. Speak to qualified Veteran Affairs responders who understand the challenges of military life. They know — many are veterans themselves. Since its launch in 2007, the Veterans Crisis Line has answered nearly 2.4 million callers and engaged in almost 294,000 chats. The Defense Suicide Prevention Office is committed to developing suicide prevention efforts among all military services stakeholders. From best practices to resources for family and friends, help is available. Every veteran is valuable and deserves our support. As a military family, we're committed to supporting veterans' strength and resilience. Don't hesitate to reach out and get the care you need or for someone you know. Conclusion There is no bigger gift than the gift of caring for another veteran in need. So, if you see a fellow brother/sister that is a little down on his/her luck, give him/her a helping hand, guidance, knowledge, anything that may just give him/her a boost that will get them through that tough time. I know they will appreciate it more than you know. They would do the same for you if you were in need.

This week we meet with the Commander of the 1st Brigade, 34th Infantry Division, learn about Vet Centers from a Veterans Outreach Specialist, and get an update from the MN Patriot Guard. Guests include: Col. Tim Kemp – 1st Brigade, … Continue reading → The post 1st Brigade, 34th Infantry Division and Vet Centers appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

What does the VA Home Loan Program, the VA Office of Faith and Opportunity, the VA Assistive Technology Program, Vet Centers, Appeals Modernization Office and VA’s diabetes training and self-management have in common? They were all featured as benefits breakdown episodes on Borne the Battle in 2019.

2019 marks the 40th Anniversary of VA's Vet Centers. This week’s interview is Pennsylvania National Guard Veteran Michael Fisher who is the VA's Senior Readjustment Counselor. He leads and has direct oversight of over 300 Vet Centers, 80 Mobile Vet Centers and the Vet Center Call Center. We broke it all down - how they started, their differences between them and VA Medical Centers, their services and who is eligible for said services. 

Everything you want to know about Vet Centers and more...from an experienced Vietnam Veteran who knows the ropes when it comes to getting resources to our Veterans

Vet Centers are one of VA's most valuable and crucial resources. Vet Centers are community-based counseling centers that provide a wide range of social and psychological services, including professional readjustment counseling to eligible Veterans, active duty service members, including National Guard and Reserve components, and their families. Readjustment counseling is offered to make a successful transition from military to civilian life or after a traumatic event experienced in the military. Individual, group, marriage and family counseling is offered in addition to referral and connection to other VA or community benefits and services. Vet Center counselors and outreach staff, many of whom are Veterans themselves, are experienced and prepared to discuss the tragedies of war, loss, grief and transition after trauma. While I was in Dallas, visited the Vet Center in Arlington, TX and sat down with Vet Center Director Joel Chaverri for an interview. Joel tells us about his time in the Marine Corps, his path to becoming a social worker, and what everyone needs to know about how Vet Centers serve Veterans and their families.

Have you ever wondered what you should do after you get that magical DD 214? Have you ever just been floating by while burning through your GI bill? Today we had a very special guest on with us, who can give you his story which will hopefully give you some ideas on what to make with your story. His name is Fred Rodger. He is a marine combat veteran. After getting out he has gotten his MBA, help create and open dozens of franchises, started a nonprofit, opened his own consulting firm, and currently is the director of marketing and outreach for a early stage investment company called the Bricks. There was so much good information given out in this, we’ve had to split our conversation into 2 parts just so we didn’t miss anything. By a trick of fate, we unfortunately lost the first five minutes of this conversation due to technical problems, but don’t worry it only gets better. In part one (where the recording starts here at least) we go over some things to look for when picking a school after the military, how to get a more advanced internship (unless of course you really like to get coffee and make copies all day), and even what to look for when you are researching a company. We then find out how someone can move from the normal MBA path to start working with franchises fairly quickly. “Take your health into your own hands” 
We talk about challenges he struggled through when getting out and until he worked through them and to the incident that led him to realize he needed help. Meds have a time and place in our lives, but as you know and Fred points out, there is a real downsize that causes many of us to avoid them at all costs. There are so many different services out there that you can utilize that I was unaware of. • Veterans Choice Program - www.va.gov/COMMUNITYCARE/programs/veterans/VCP/index.asp • Vet Centers - www.vetcenter.va.gov • Local Outreach Facilities • Give an Hour - www.giveanhour.org o An amazing organization Fred discusses where mental health professionals from around the country volunteer their time every week through many different mediums to vets and first responders that need it. You are able to vet your provider to make sure you get the right person who has the right background (PTSD, sexual trauma, ect..). Please check this out, it is FREE to you. Please check out part 2 in episode 3 to hear the rest of the story! Thank you for checking us out. YOU matter, YOU’VE got this, and YOU’RE not alone!

When we first launched the podcast, initial response questioned whether or not our audience would hear from Veterans that have had trouble with VA. A few of my guests in the past have alluded to challenges with VA health care, but I wanted to to dig a little deeper and talk with someone that has a wide range of experiences with VA. Kevin Leverence and I have known each other for a few years after he first appeared on my podcast 1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide. I followed up with him earlier this year asking if he'd be willing to share his experiences on This Week at VA and he generously agreed. Kevin did not have a good introduction to VA and it took a few frustrating iterations before he finally broke through some sticking points and found the help he was looking for. Kevin is going to share stories from joining the military and his military service, his transition out of the Marine Corps, frustrations with VA, and finally getting the care he needed. Lots of great talk about patient advocates, Vet Centers, different types of therapy, and much more. Covered in Episode 55: How to follow us during next week's events Interview with Marine Veteran Kevin Leverence Why he joined the military A story from his time in His transition out and the challenges he faced The day that first turned him off of VA The value in patient advocates How Vet Centers are great resources for Veterans Types of therapy he has used Getting comfortable with VA and getting the care he needs Finding your patient advocate #VeteranOfTheDay Navy Veteran Tony Roberti

Ryan Ahl | Pennsylvania National Guard   On episode 3 of Longest War, the podcast of VBC’s Post-9/11 Veterans Storytelling Project, we have an in-depth conversation with Pa National Guard veteran, Ryan Ahl, about deploying to Iraq as an infantryman, post-traumatic stress, commissioning as an officer, and helping fellow veterans though the VA’s community-based Vet Centers. […]

Troy Stormoen is a combat veteran from the Iraq war that has since dedicated his life to finding our Warfighters that have yet to find help on their own.  Following his enlistment he has become the Outreach Coordinator for the Vet Center.  If you have served in any combat zone,  Vet Centers are in your community to help you and your family with readjustment counseling and outreach services.  By the end of 2011, there will be 300 Vet Centers across the US and surrounding territories (US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Guam, and American Samoa). To learn more, click here:  http://www.vetcenter.va.gov/media/confessions/confessions.asp GallantFew is a veteran serving nonprofit that helps veterans (focus on US Army Rangers) transition from active duty to civilian life. This internet radio program highlights veterans who have successfully achieved that transition; veterans that have overcome tremendous odds; organizations that provide great programs for veterans; and other items of general veteran interest.