FIRST STEP MEN'S THERAPY
Veterans & Military Personnel Therapy for Men in Toronto, Ottawa and Virtually Across Canada
Supporting men and their partners
Services Available across Canada
Online & In-Person Sessions, Guaranteed No Waitlist
Accepted by most major insurance providers
Suivis/services thérapeutiques offerts en français
You Have Served Your Country.... And Now Your Are Struggling.
Military veterans often struggle with a range of mental health issues as a result of their service.
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Veterans who have experienced traumatic events while serving their country often struggle with mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Fortunately, there are evidence-based therapies that can help veterans cope with the effects of trauma.
Veterans Often Face Unique Challenges When It Comes To Mental Health And Addiction
The stigma surrounding mental health issues can prevent veterans from seeking help for addiction. This stigma can come from both within the veteran community and from society at large. Veterans may feel ashamed or embarrassed to seek help, as they may view it as a sign of weakness. Additionally, they may fear discrimination or negative consequences if they disclose their mental health issues to those in the department.​
Veterans Therapy for PTSD
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Therapy for veterans with PTSD and trauma typically involves evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). CBT is a short-term, goal-oriented therapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
For veterans with PTSD, CBT may involve exposure therapy, where the individual is gradually exposed to the traumatic event in a safe and controlled environment. EMDR is another evidence-based therapy that involves the use of eye movements to help individuals process traumatic memories. This therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of PTSD in veterans.
We Specialize in Veterans Therapy
​Therapy for veterans with PTSD and trauma can be a complex and challenging process, but there are evidence-based therapies and strategies that can help. Cognitive-behavioral therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing are effective therapies, and group therapy can provide a sense of community and support. It is also important for therapists to have an understanding of military culture and the unique challenges that veterans face in seeking treatment for mental health issues. With the right support and treatment, veterans can learn to cope with the effects of trauma and live fulfilling lives.
Therapists for Military Personnel
Ontario-based therapists that are comfortable and experienced working with Veterans.
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It is important for therapists working with veterans to have an understanding of military culture and the unique challenges that veterans face in seeking treatment for mental health issues. Veterans may be hesitant to seek treatment due to stigma or concerns about confidentiality. Therapists who are familiar with military culture can help veterans feel more comfortable and understood. In addition, therapists should be aware of the potential for moral injury in veterans, which can occur when they feel that their actions or experiences while serving go against their moral beliefs. Addressing moral injury can be an important part of therapy for veterans with PTSD and trauma.​
Common Struggles of Veterans & Military Personnel
Some of the most common challenges include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. PTSD is a condition that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. It can manifest as nightmares, flashbacks, and a sense of hypervigilance, and can be especially prevalent among veterans who have served in combat.
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Depression is also a common mental health issue among veterans. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including the stress of deployment, the loss of comrades, and the difficulty of readjusting to civilian life. Anxiety is another common mental health concern among veterans. It can stem from the trauma of combat, as well as from the stress of transitioning back to civilian life.
Other mental health issues that veterans may struggle with include substance abuse, sleep disorders, and traumatic brain injury. It's important to note that not every veteran will experience mental health issues, but for those who do, it's important to seek help.
Many organizations and programs are available to help veterans address these challenges, including the Department of Veterans Affairs, veterans' service organizations, and community-based programs.
Therapy Can Assist Veterans and Active Service Members with Their Mental Health Struggles
There are several types of therapy that have been shown to be helpful for veterans in the military, including:
Veterans Therapy Helps
It's important to note that not all therapies will work for every veteran, and it may take some trial and error to find the right treatment. Working with a mental health professional who is experienced in treating veterans can be helpful in finding the best approach for an individual veteran.
Did you know: Several of our therapists are registered to work with Veterans Affairs Canada and Medavie Blue Cross for coverage of veterans with VAC.
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​With the right support and treatment, veterans can learn to cope with the effects of trauma and live fulfilling lives.
Help is available - we’re accepting clients in-person in Ottawa and Toronto plus virtually across Ontario!
Take a Look at our Veteran & Military Personnel Blog Posts...
Struggling with More than Veterans & Military Personnel Issues?
Our team of specialized therapists based in Ontario are also experts in:
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Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB)
Veteran Affairs Canada Coverage