ITP Therapist Shares Thoughts About Mental Health Services for Veterans

Darcy Wiebrand, a therapist with Integrated Telehealth Partners, spoke to Iowa's News Now (CBS 2 Iowa) about the importance of making mental health services accessible to veterans. Wiebrand, a 21-year Army veteran, provides therapy services via telehealth to patients at two Iowa clinics. Integrated Telehealth Partners helps hospitals, clinics and jails expand their behavioral health services through a robust network of mental health providers who connect with patients through a computer or phone.

This gives veterans and anyone else using these resources a way to stay connected to their mental healthcare provider.

"Not every veteran wants to go to the VA. Not every veteran is qualified to go to the VA. They're still coming away from their experience with some of the same issues that might be facing somebody who is qualified to go to the VA," Wiebrand said.

How Veterans Can Get Mental Health Treatment

The important thing for veterans and their families to know is that help is available, and there are ways for you to find a connection that works for you. Veterans may start by talking with their primary care providers about the need for mental health treatment. Many hospitals and clinics in Iowa can provide veteran mental health services for former service members who are struggling with mental health issues.

Insurance, such as TRICARE®, can often help pay for these facilities where evidence-based treatments and therapies can make a major difference.

Veterans in crisis can call 800-273-8255 or go online to veteranscrisisline.net.

The Iowa Department of Human Services has set up a “warm line,” which connects people to peer support specialists and counselors. Call 844-775-9276 or visit www.COVIDrecoveryiowa.org.

The Iowa Department of Public Health has a website, yourlifeiowa.org, with information and resources regarding mental health, gambling and alcohol and drug abuse. The program also has 24-hour help available by calling 855-581-8111 or texting 855-895-8398.

Calling 211 will connect people with social services resources, including mental health counseling.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is at 800-273-TALK (8255). The lifeline is answered by someone at a crisis center closest to your location. Other resources are available online at suicidepreventionlifeline.org