Our program provides access to therapy, case management, peer support, and wellness-focused fitness services designed to give Veterans the tools and resources they need to promote healing, build resilience, and navigate the challenges that can come with military service and life after service.

We understand that asking for help is not always easy. Our goal is to create a Veteran-focused environment where individuals can connect with supportive professionals, resources, and services that understand the unique experiences of those who have served.

Why This Program Matters

Many Veterans face barriers when trying to access mental health care and other supportive services. The Veterans Mental Health Program helps bridge the gap between community resources and the needs of Veterans by providing culturally competent, Veteran-focused support.

By coordinating services and connecting Veterans with appropriate resources, the program helps make it easier to find support when it is needed.

Who We Serve

The Veterans Mental Health Program serves:

• Veterans of all eras who reside in Will County
• National Guard and Reserve members who reside in Will County
• Caregivers supporting Veterans

Mental Health & Wellness Services

The Veterans Mental Health Program coordinates a range of services and resources designed to support the mental health, well-being, and successful reintegration of Veterans and their families.

• Individual therapy for Veterans, caregivers, and family members
• Support groups and peer support
• Case management and coordinated care
• Support for Veterans experiencing PTSD, depression, and anxiety
• Reintegration support following military service
• Support related to Veterans Treatment Court
• Wellness-focused fitness services
• Connections to community mental health and supportive resources

Mental Health Coordination

The VACWC Mental Health Coordinator oversees mental health services to help ensure high-quality, ethical, and coordinated care for Veterans.

• Provides individual therapy for Veterans, caregivers, and family members
• Facilitates support groups
• Provides suicide prevention and crisis response support
• Coordinates with local law enforcement and other emergency responders when higher-level intervention is needed
• Connects Veterans with appropriate community mental health and support resources

Case Management

The Case Management Program is designed to reduce stigma, increase access, and provide coordinated support in a professional environment that respects military service and Veteran identity.

• Provides VA benefits and claims support for Veterans and caregivers receiving mental health services
• Assists with healthcare enrollment and access to available services
• Provides support with housing, employment, and reintegration services
• Helps Veterans navigate VA systems, community programs, and available resources
• Serves as a Veteran advocate to help ensure timely access to high-quality care and services
• Partners with the Mental Health Coordinator to provide crisis response, support, and follow-up case management for Veterans in need

Peer Support

Our Peer Support Specialist, Joe Martin, plays a vital role in Veteran treatment by providing non-clinical support, advocacy, and recovery and wellness engagement. Through shared life experiences and trust, he helps Veterans navigate services, reinforce treatment goals, reduce isolation, and promote long-term recovery.

• Provides non-clinical support and Veteran advocacy
• Assists Veterans in navigating available services and resources
• Supports treatment goals, wellness engagement, and recovery efforts
• Helps reduce isolation through connection, understanding, and shared experiences