This tool provides estimates for educational purposes only. We are not accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs and do not file claims, provide legal advice, or represent veterans before the VA (38 U.S.C. § 5904). For official assistance, contact a VSO, CVSO, or VA-accredited attorney.
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Evidence-Based Treatment Options at VA
Based on VA’s published mental-health services and the medical-benefits package at 38 CFR § 17.38. This page is a free community resource. We are not VA-accredited and do not file claims or provide legal advice (per 38 U.S.C. § 5904).
Last reviewed: April 2026 · Next review: October 2026
Maintained by: Veterans Benefits Navigator editorial team. Every citation links to a primary federal or state source. See editorial standards and our privacy posture.
Primary sources: VA.gov mental health care, 38 CFR § 17.38 (Medical benefits package), VA National Center for PTSD
The VA offers several evidence-based treatments for mental health conditions covered under the VA medical-benefits package[src]. You do not need a formal diagnosis to ask your provider about these options.
You can ask your VA provider about any of these options. If you are not currently enrolled in VA healthcare, you can apply at VA.gov or visit a Vet Center, which does not require enrollment.
PTSD
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
PTSDA structured therapy that helps you understand and change how you think about your trauma. Typically involves 12 sessions.
What to ask your provider
"I'd like to learn about Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD." Your provider can discuss whether it may be a good fit.
VA availability
Available at most VA medical centers and many community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs). VA has trained thousands of providers in CPT.
Prolonged Exposure (PE)
PTSDA therapy that helps you gradually approach trauma-related memories and situations you have been avoiding. Typically involves 8 to 15 sessions.
What to ask your provider
"I'd like to discuss Prolonged Exposure therapy." Your mental health provider can explain the process and help you decide.
VA availability
Available at most VA medical centers. PE is one of the VA's recommended first-line treatments for PTSD.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
PTSDA therapy that helps you process traumatic memories using guided eye movements or other bilateral stimulation. Typically involves 6 to 12 sessions.
What to ask your provider
"Can I learn about EMDR for trauma?" Your provider can determine availability and discuss whether it may be appropriate.
VA availability
Available at many VA facilities. Availability may vary by location. Your mental health team can help you find a provider.
Military Sexual Trauma (MST)
MST-Related Treatment
Military Sexual Trauma (MST)VA provides free treatment for physical and mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma. You do not need a service-connected disability rating, and you do not need to have reported the incident at the time.
What to ask your provider
"I'd like to talk to someone about MST-related services." Every VA medical center has an MST Coordinator who can help connect you to care.
VA availability
Every VA medical center has MST-related services and a designated MST Coordinator. Vet Centers also provide MST-related counseling. You do not need to be enrolled in VA healthcare to receive MST-related care.
Substance Use
Substance Use Disorder Treatment
Substance UseVA offers a range of substance use treatment options including outpatient counseling, medication-assisted treatment, intensive outpatient programs, and residential treatment.
What to ask your provider
"I'd like to explore treatment options for substance use." Your primary care or mental health provider can discuss the options available to you.
VA availability
Available at VA medical centers and many CBOCs. Residential treatment programs are available at select locations for veterans who may benefit from a more intensive setting.
Depression
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
DepressionA structured therapy that helps you identify and change negative thinking patterns and behaviors. One of the most widely studied treatments for depression.
What to ask your provider
"I'd like to discuss therapy options for how I've been feeling." Your provider can talk with you about CBT and other approaches.
VA availability
Widely available at VA medical centers and CBOCs. VA also offers CBT-based self-help resources through VA apps and online programs.
Behavioral Activation (BA)
DepressionA therapy focused on gradually increasing your engagement in meaningful activities. Can be especially helpful when low motivation and withdrawal are present.
What to ask your provider
"I'd like to know about Behavioral Activation." Your mental health provider can explain how it works and whether it may help.
VA availability
Available at many VA mental health programs. Often used alongside other approaches as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
This information is educational only. Treatment decisions should be made with your healthcare provider. We are not accredited agents, attorneys, or claims agents, and do not file claims or provide legal advice per 38 U.S.C. § 5904. For official assistance, contact a VSO, CVSO, or VA-accredited attorney.