VA appointment

[formergrunt70]

Advice anyone? I called whiteoak (Danny) yesterday. We talked about Me having
PTSD type issues over the years. I told Him that I had been seeing a civilian type
psycologist for depression, and other issues. So Danny did tell me some things about the VA. I called Them today to see about being assigned a counselor. The lady said I needed a referral. Not a problem My PCM at the base clinic can provide that. I then asked about treatment, and or counseling for PTSD. She stated That I need to have been diagnosed
by a psycharist, or physician as suffering from PTSD. Where do I start? Have not filed
any type claims. Been on anti-depressant for 4 years, and have been seeing this Psycologist about the same amount of time. I really think I need professional counseling. Some of the past has hit me like a ton of bricks.

[Doc.2/47]

If you're already getting physical care from VA, you can get them to give you a referal to a VA shrink and go from there.

[MORTARDUDE]

I would start going to the VA Vet Center on Union Ave. in Memphis. They helped me a great deal. They also have a once a week one hour group session for combat vets only. I sent you a PM.

Larry

[Packo]

That's ridiculous.....all you have to do is say you need to see a psychiatrist for your Vietnam issues. Your PCM can do that. Also, Larry, Mdude, is right. There is a Vet Center in Memphis, and you need no referral for that. Years ago the Memphis Vet Center was recruiting me big time. I wanted to go, but was working on my Masters at UNC. There was no place in Memphis to complete my degree so I stayed in Greensboro. Larry knows the guy I was working with, former 101, Airborne, Sky Pilot. Can't think of his name, but the Memphis Vet Center always had a good reputation. If Larry says it's a good place...you can go to the bank on that. When my stuff flaired up over treating Marines and Corpsmen for PTSD at the Naval Hospital....all I did was go down to the VA Clinic and say I needed to see a shrink. Had an appointment within the month. We have no Vet Center here....so since you have one in Memphis....GO TO IT!

Pack

[formergrunt70]

Thanks
I do have some leads to VA. My Daughter is on the School board of Commissioners. Tonight
She and other big wheels did a presentation at the Hampton Inn. She met a retired Vet,
Who is also a big Honcho with the local VA chapter in Memphis. He asked Her For my phone# and e-mail address, and said He would be talking to Me. I will also be visiting the VA
next week. Thanks for the info.

[1CAVCCO15MED]

The Vet Centers were designed to be easily accessed without the hassel you get from the usual VA bull crap system. I don't know what I would do without my Vet Center group. I have been going every Wednesday for about 5 years. They have been the portal for all the other treatments I have gotten too.

[formergrunt70]

Thanks all- Thanks 1st Cav. I went today, but was in a big hurry. They have moved from the original spot on Union ave. I think They moved into a professional bldg in the 1400
block. I have a phone # and a good contact e-mail. I will contact Them today. Just about
to get the ball rolling. This has been a tough couple of years. Good to know They are accessable.

[Packo]

Way to go! Following up on all this good advice is a major step! Go for it!

Pack

[formergrunt70]

Got in touch with the Vet center today. I have an assessment appointment on 23 October.
We will then proceed from there.

[Packo]

Excellent! Keep us posted buddy!

Pack