Behavioral Health Programs is changing its name to Counseling and Wellness Programs.
The PTSD War Trauma Program began in 1984 where no-cost outpatient counseling is provided to Vets and their family members. In 2005 began the Veteran Conservation Corps, 2008 the Vet Corps, 2009 Vet Supportive Campus, 2010 Traumatic Brain Injury, 2011 Veteran Training Support Center, 2012 VCC Internship, and in 2017 the Veteran Peer Corps (A total of eight programs). Because of the mission of counseling of the War Trauma Program the overarching title assigned to describe it and other aforementioned programs was Behavioral Health.
Behavioral Health is an appropriate term if one were only referring to PTSD War Trauma, however it doesn’t aptly describe the rest. Subsequently our team met during a retreat to further discuss common values and themes and identify possible program titles. A survey was sent to stake holders to solicit their ideas and this data along with team recommendations produced Counseling and Wellness. For those interested, I’ve attached our purpose, mission, vision and values. We continue to revisit them as our programs evolve.
We will continue to exhaust literature that cites Behavioral Health Programs and will replace over time with Counseling and Wellness Programs. If you have any questions or would like more information about any of our programs please feel free to contact me.
Sincerely,
Peter G. Schmidt, Psy. D., LMHC
Behavioral Health Program Director
Department of Veterans Affairs
1102 Quince St. SE
PO Box 41155
Olympia, WA 98504-1155
Washington Department of Veterans Affairs - Counseling & Wellness Programs
Vision - Every veteran and their family member is empowered and supported on their journey towards wellness and self-growth.
Mission - Transforming the lives of veterans and their families.
Purpose - The purpose of Counseling and Wellness is to:
a) Provide no cost counseling services to Veterans and their families;
b) Provide education and advocacy on Veteran-related topics;
c) Promote self-directed connections to natural and community resources;
d) Build resiliency within veterans and their communities;
e) Support those who are in service of veterans and their families.
Values
-Commitment
-Compassion
-Empowerment
-Service
-Integrity
-Stewardship
-Personal Growth