Military service members provide an invaluable service that protects national ideals and ensures the country and various regions around the world are safe havens for people from all walks of life. That service requires considerable sacrifice, and the cost of service can extend well beyond the time military personnel are on active duty. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs says that more than 1.7 million veterans utilized the following mental health services at the VA last year.

  • Individual and group counseling: Individual counseling is a one-on-one approach to therapy that helps veterans address their issues, thoughts, concerns, emotions, and personal situations. Some veterans prefer individual counseling because of the confidentiality it provides and the personalized attention each session offers. Group counseling offers an opportunity to both receive support and support others who may be in similar situations and have had comparable experiences during their military service.
  • Couples and family counseling: Such counseling can assist veterans in opening up with those closest to them, which some may find difficult after their military service. Couples therapy for veterans and their partners can help them reconnect emotionally and spiritually.
  • Military sexual trauma (MST) counseling: The VA explains that military sexual trauma refers to sexual assault or harassment experienced during military service. Counseling for MST can help veterans understand how a traumatic sexual experience while serving is affecting their current lives and may include detailed discussions of the experience.
  • Readjustment counseling: This service helps veterans and their families successfully transition from military to civilian life. Family members of those who served in combat zones or received an Army campaign ribbon are eligible for this counseling.
  • Bereavement (grief) counseling: Many veterans face emotional and psychological stress after losing a fellow service member. This type of counseling provides support during such a loss. Bereavement counseling can also be sought if a loved one who passed away was not in the military.
  • Substance use treatment: Many veterans struggle with issues related to alcohol, tobacco, street drugs, and prescription medications. Medically supervised detoxification and other related services are available for veterans as part of substance use treatment.

Here in Western New York, veterans can access many therapy programs, including those offered by the VA Western New York Health Care System, which has facilities in Buffalo and Batavia, as well as telehealth therapy options. The Buffalo Vet Center is another essential community-based resource that provides confidential counseling for veterans and their families, where services are free, regardless of VA enrollment.

For those seeking additional local support, organizations like WNYVets.org, Spectrum Health & Human Services, and BestSelf Behavioral Health provide veteran-focused mental health counseling and peer support programs across the region. These programs connect veterans with licensed therapists experienced in trauma-informed care and reintegration assistance.

During a crisis, veterans can get immediate help through the Veterans Crisis Line by calling 988 and pressing one or by texting 838255. Local suicide prevention coordinators at VA Western New York also offer ongoing support and referrals.