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Veterans Crisis Line:988, press 1
The Veterans Crisis Line is free, confidential, and available 24/7. For a life-threatening emergency, call 911.
Based on Vet Center readjustment counseling authorized by 38 U.S.C. § 1712A and administered under VA’s published Vet Center program rules. 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: 38 U.S.C. § 1712A (Readjustment counseling), VA.gov Vet Center locator, VA.gov Vet Centers
Vet Centers provide free, confidential readjustment counseling to eligible veterans and their families38 U.S.C. § 1712A†. They are separate from VA medical centers and do not require VA healthcare enrollment.
Vet Centers are community-based and designed to feel different from a hospital setting. Services are confidential and records are kept separately from your VA medical record.
Veterans who served in any combat theater or area of hostility. This includes Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, New Dawn, and other combat operations.
Veterans and active duty service members who experienced sexual assault or repeated, threatening sexual harassment during military service.
Members of an unmanned aerial vehicle crew who provided direct support to operations in a theater of combat operations.
Veterans who served on mortuary affairs duty or in the graves registration service.
Family members of service members who died while serving on active duty, including surviving parents, spouses, children, and siblings.
Active duty service members, including members of the National Guard and Reserve, who served in a combat theater or experienced MST.
Veterans who served on active duty in the armed forces after September 11, 2001, in any theater of operations.
One-on-one sessions with a readjustment counselor to help with issues related to military service, including PTSD, depression, and reintegration challenges.
Peer-based group sessions with other veterans. Groups may focus on topics like combat stress, relationship challenges, or transitioning to civilian life.
Counseling for family members to address relationship concerns, improve communication, and help the family adjust to changes related to military service.
Support for family members who have lost a loved one during active duty service.
Confidential counseling for veterans who experienced military sexual trauma. No VA enrollment or service-connected rating required.
Vet Center staff can help connect you to VA benefits, community resources, employment assistance, and other services.
Vet Centers conduct outreach events and operate Mobile Vet Centers (MVCs) to bring services to veterans in underserved areas.
There are over 300 Vet Centers across the country, including Mobile Vet Centers that travel to underserved areas.
Find your nearest Vet Center at VA.govThis information is educational only. Eligibility for Vet Center services is determined by the individual Vet Center. 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 your nearest Vet Center or a Veterans Service Organization.