How to Access VA Counseling for Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Survivors

Military Sexual Trauma (MST) refers to sexual assault or harassment experienced during military service. MST can have a profound and lasting impact on a veteran’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being, leading to conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Fortunately, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers specialized counseling and support services for veterans who have experienced MST.

In this blog, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide on how veterans can access VA counseling and support services for MST survivors, including available resources, support groups, and how to start the process of receiving care. Organizations like Warrior Allegiance can offer additional guidance and support to veterans seeking help for MST-related trauma.

1. What Is Military Sexual Trauma (MST)?

Military Sexual Trauma (MST) includes any sexual harassment or sexual assault that occurs while a veteran is serving in the military. This can include unwanted sexual advances, physical assault of a sexual nature, or coercion. MST can happen to anyone, regardless of gender, rank, or service branch, and it can lead to long-term emotional and psychological effects.

Some common symptoms experienced by survivors of MST include:

• PTSD
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Sleep disturbances
• Substance abuse
• Difficulty trusting others

The VA recognizes the unique challenges faced by MST survivors and provides a range of services specifically tailored to help veterans recover and heal.

2. VA Counseling and Support Services for MST Survivors

The VA offers free, confidential counseling and support to all veterans who have experienced MST. Importantly, veterans do not need to have reported the incident or have documentation of the MST to access these services. Services are available to all veterans, regardless of discharge status or whether the incident occurred during active duty, Reserve, or National Guard service.

Individual Therapy for MST

Veterans can access individual therapy through the VA’s specialized MST programs. These therapy sessions are typically conducted by clinicians with experience in helping veterans heal from trauma. Common therapeutic approaches used to treat MST include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors related to the trauma.
• Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): Helps veterans challenge and modify negative thoughts about the trauma.
• Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE): A trauma-focused therapy that encourages veterans to confront and process traumatic memories in a safe setting.

Veterans work one-on-one with therapists to develop personalized treatment plans that focus on recovery, symptom management, and building resilience.

Group Therapy for MST Survivors

Group therapy provides veterans the opportunity to connect with others who have had similar experiences. These MST support groups offer a safe and supportive environment for veterans to share their stories, learn coping strategies, and offer mutual encouragement. Group therapy can be particularly helpful for veterans who feel isolated or misunderstood in their experience of MST.

• Action Step: Ask your VA provider about available MST support groups in your area or through the VA’s telehealth services. Virtual group therapy is also an option for veterans who prefer remote participation.

Medication Management

In addition to therapy, some veterans may benefit from medication management to help control symptoms of depression, anxiety, or PTSD. VA mental health providers can work with veterans to determine whether medication is appropriate as part of their overall treatment plan for MST-related conditions.

• Action Step: Discuss your mental health symptoms with your VA provider to explore whether medication might be a helpful addition to your recovery process.

3. How to Access VA MST Counseling and Support

The process of accessing VA counseling and support for MST is straightforward, and there are several ways for veterans to get started.

Enroll in VA Health Care

The first step to accessing MST counseling is to enroll in VA health care. Veterans who have experienced MST are eligible for free mental health care related to their trauma, regardless of their VA health care enrollment status or discharge status. However, enrolling in VA health care can help streamline access to additional services and benefits.

• Eligibility: Most veterans who served in active duty, the National Guard, or the Reserves are eligible for VA health care. Veterans do not need to have reported the MST at the time it occurred or have documentation of the incident to access MST-related care.
• Action Step: To enroll in VA health care, visit VA.gov or call 1-877-222-VETS (8387). Veterans can also apply in person at their local VA medical center.

Contact Your VA Medical Center’s MST Coordinator

Every VA medical center has an MST coordinator who can help veterans access the specific services they need. MST coordinators are trained professionals who specialize in helping veterans navigate the available resources for MST survivors, including counseling, therapy, and support groups.

• Action Step: Contact your local VA medical center and ask to speak with the MST coordinator. They can help guide you through the process of setting up counseling services and provide information on available programs.

Schedule a Mental Health Evaluation

Once you’re enrolled in VA health care, the next step is to schedule a mental health evaluation. This evaluation is typically conducted by a VA mental health professional who will assess your symptoms, discuss your experience with MST, and work with you to develop a treatment plan.

• Action Step: Schedule an evaluation by contacting your local VA medical center or using the My HealtheVet portal to request an appointment.

Access MST Counseling Through Vet Centers

Vet Centers are community-based counseling centers that provide a wide range of services for veterans, including MST counseling. These centers offer free and confidential care to veterans and their families. Vet Centers provide a more informal setting than traditional VA medical centers, which some veterans may find more comfortable.

• Action Step: To find a Vet Center near you, visit the Vet Center Locator on VA.gov or call 1-877-WAR-VETS (927-8387). You can make an appointment directly with a Vet Center to begin counseling.

4. Additional Resources and Support for MST Survivors

In addition to counseling and therapy, the VA offers several other resources to help veterans who have experienced MST.

MST Support Groups

Many veterans benefit from participating in support groups with other MST survivors. These groups offer a space for veterans to share their experiences, learn from others, and receive emotional support. The VA provides both in-person and virtual support groups, depending on the veteran’s preference and location.

• Action Step: Ask your VA provider or MST coordinator about available MST support groups at your local VA medical center or through telehealth services.

VA Telehealth Services

For veterans who prefer virtual care, the VA offers telehealth services that allow veterans to connect with mental health professionals and participate in therapy remotely. This can be a great option for veterans who may not live near a VA facility or who feel more comfortable receiving care from home.

• Action Step: Discuss telehealth options with your VA provider or use the VA Video Connect app to schedule virtual therapy sessions.

24/7 Veterans Crisis Line

Veterans who are in immediate emotional distress or experiencing a mental health crisis can contact the Veterans Crisis Line for support. This service is available 24/7 and provides free, confidential help from trained professionals.

• Action Step: Call the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 and press 1, or text 838255 for assistance.

5. How Warrior Allegiance Supports MST Survivors

Warrior Allegiance is dedicated to helping veterans access the care they need to recover from MST and improve their mental well-being. The organization offers:

• Guidance on Accessing VA Care: Warrior Allegiance helps veterans navigate the process of enrolling in VA health care and connecting with MST coordinators.
• Resources for MST Survivors: The organization provides information and support for veterans seeking MST counseling, therapy, and support groups.
• Community Support: Warrior Allegiance connects veterans with a network of peers who understand their experiences, offering a safe space for veterans to share their stories and find encouragement.

Conclusion

For veterans who have experienced Military Sexual Trauma (MST), accessing VA counseling and support services is a crucial step toward healing and recovery. The VA offers free, confidential care to all veterans dealing with MST, including individual therapy, group support, and medication management.

With the support of organizations like Warrior Allegiance, veterans can easily navigate the process of accessing VA health care, connecting with MST coordinators, and finding the resources they need to heal. If you or a loved one is a survivor of MST, don’t hesitate to reach out for help—recovery is possible, and support is available.