1. Navigating Mental Health Care Dr. Elena Klaw

2. Barriers to professional mental health care for vets Stigma Fear of job repercussions Distrust of mental health professionals Can’t access care Frustration with initial assessment process

3. Different psychological service providers Psychiatrists – MDs, can prescribe meds Psychologists - PhDs, testing and psychotherapy Social workers - MSWs psychotherapy and case management Counselors – MFT, LPC, psychotherapy *All should be empathic listeners, who aim to reduce symptoms and increase coping

4. Cognitive Errors addressed through Cognitive Therapy Overgeneralizing Black or white thinking Catastrophic thinking “Musturbatation” – focusing on shoulds Pairs cognitive reframing with telling your story and relaxation exercises

5. Therapy might address Why a warrior might feel guilt Why a warrior might punish him/herself What a vet is getting out of self destructive behavior Objective is to change maladaptive behavior Goal of therapy is to allow client to have more joy, self acceptance, and better relationships