#USA #Stamford #Cohen Veterans Network #Mental Health Care #Air Space Forces Aid Society

Enhancing Mental Health Care Accessibility for Military Families

In a significant step towards supporting the mental well-being of military families, Cohen Veterans Network (CVN) has teamed up with the Air & Space Forces Aid Society (AFAS). This collaboration is primarily focused on expanding access to mental health care for Airmen, Guardians, and their families, recognizing the pressing need for such services in today’s healthcare landscape.

Grant for Mental Health Services

The partnership kicks off with a generous $75,000 grant from AFAS, designed to alleviate the out-of-pocket expenses associated with seeking mental health care. Eligible beneficiaries can access this funding while receiving treatment at any of CVN’s 23 Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinics, which offer both in-person and telehealth services. This initiative aims to tackle the financial barriers that have frequently obstructed military families from obtaining vital mental health support.

Dr. Anthony Hassan, the president and CEO of Cohen Veterans Network, emphasizes the significance of this collaboration by stating, "Far too many military families face financial barriers to accessing mental health care. Expanding access to care is central to our mission. We are grateful to the Air & Space Forces Aid Society for their partnership in helping ease the burden and connect more Air Force and Space Force families with the care and support they deserve."

Understanding AFAS's Role

The Air & Space Forces Aid Society (AFAS), serving as the official relief organization for the U.S. Air Force and Space Force, has a rich history of supporting military personnel and their families since 1942. Beyond providing financial assistance, AFAS offers emergency travel help, education support, family programs, and disaster relief. The organization has now recognized the crucial link between mental health and overall military readiness, leading to this partnership with CVN. Retired Air Force Maj. Gen. Ed Thomas, the current head of AFAS, remarked, "No Airman or Guardian should have to choose between their mental health and their finances. This partnership with Cohen Veterans Network removes that choice entirely. Taking care of our people isn't separate from readiness — it is readiness."

Who Can Benefit from the Grant?

The funding is available to various groups within the Air Force and Space Force, including:

• - Active duty Air Force and Space Force members and their eligible dependents
• - Active Guard Reserve members and their eligible dependents
• - Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve members activated under Title 10 or Title 32 for more than 15 days along with their eligible dependents

This financial assistance can cover up to $600 per family member, with a maximum benefit of $2,400 per family. This substantial support is aimed at easing the financial strain on families while they attend to their mental health needs.

Services Offered at Cohen Clinics

Cohen Veterans Network’s clinics are equipped to address a wide range of mental health issues, including but not limited to:

• - Depression
• - Anxiety
• - Challenges associated with military transitions
• - Anger management
• - PTSD
• - Grief and loss
• - Family-related issues
• - Relationship problems
• - Behavioral issues in children

Various therapeutic options are available, ranging from individual and couples sessions to family and group therapy, ensuring holistic care tailored to each family’s unique circumstances. The clinics prioritize providing accessible mental health services using both traditional face-to-face approaches as well as innovative telehealth solutions. Since its establishment in 2016, CVN has successfully treated over 105,000 clients, delivering nearly 945,000 clinical sessions across its network of clinics located in 22 states and the District of Columbia, along with several military bases in Asia.

Commitment to Mental Health

This collaboration between Cohen Veterans Network and AFAS represents a significant commitment to improving mental health outcomes for military families. It reflects a progressive understanding of the integral role of mental health in maintaining military readiness and overall family well-being. By removing financial obstacles, this partnership strives to ensure that no military family is left without the critical support they need and deserve.

As military personnel and their families navigate the challenges associated with service life, this partnership stands as a testament to the importance of community support in fostering resilience and promoting mental health awareness within the armed forces. For more information about Cohen Veterans Network and the services offered, visit cohenveteransnetwork.org.

Conclusion

By focusing on accessibility and affordability, Cohen Veterans Network and AFAS are leading the way in reshaping how mental health care is delivered to those who serve our country. Their joint efforts not only enhance individual lives but also contribute to the overall strength and readiness of the military community.