Every year, we observe Veterans Day to honor the courageous men and women who have served our country. Many service members’ battles continue long after they return to civilian life. Mental health challenges like post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety can linger, affecting every part of daily life.

Unfortunately, countless veterans face significant hurdles when trying to access timely mental health care. Long wait times, limited provider options and bureaucratic obstacles within the VA system can delay critical treatment. Serene Behavioral Health proudly bridges this gap. As part of the VA’s Community Care Network and an authorized provider for TRICARE and TriWest, we make it easier for veterans to receive personalized, trauma-informed mental health treatment.

Veterans Deserve Specialized Care

Compared to civilians, veterans are 15 times more likely to develop PTSD, five times more vulnerable to depression and nearly twice as likely to die by suicide.

These heightened risks stem from the unique stressors of military life, including:

• Long or recurring deployments
• Combat exposure and moral injury
• Military sexual trauma
• Separation from family and support systems
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Difficulty transitioning to civilian life

Returning home after a prolonged period away can be overwhelming. Some veterans miss the structure and purpose they found in service, while others experience isolation, emotional numbness, guilt or intrusive memories. These challenges can intensify without proper mental health care, leading to relationship breakdowns, substance use or suicidal ideation.

Why It Might Be Hard to Get Help Through the VA

While the Department of Veterans Affairs offers many resources, accessing them might feel overwhelming when you are already struggling and urgently need help. You may encounter:

• Long appointment wait times
• Limited provider availability, especially in rural areas
• Red tape that delays treatment approvals
• Geographic barriers, such as living far from a VA facility
• Understaffed centers unable to meet growing demand

Serene Behavioral Health proudly serves as the mental health arm of Hope by the Sea, a VA Community Care Network provider. Through the CCN, veterans can receive high-quality, evidence-based treatment outside the VA system – often much faster than waiting for in-network availability.

Comprehensive, Veteran-Focused Treatment at Serene Behavioral Health

Serene Behavioral Health offers programming specifically designed to meet veterans’ complex needs. Our clinicians provide trauma-informed, evidence-based methods that address the psychological and emotional impact of military service.

We offer four levels of care to meet every veteran’s needs. We’ll work closely with you to build a personalized care plan that encourages stability, connection and long-term recovery. We also believe financial constraints should not put quality mental health care out of reach. That’s why we accept many forms of health insurance, including TRICARE and TriWest.

Breaking Barriers to Care for Those Who Served

Here’s how to begin receiving care through the VA’s Community Care Network.

1. Schedule an appointment with your VA provider.
2. Request a mental health evaluation for a condition like PTSD or depression.
3. If the VA cannot provide timely or appropriate care, you’ll receive authorization to seek treatment at a Community Care Network provider.
4. Reach out to our admissions team, share your authorization and we’ll seamlessly coordinate treatment.

Every veteran deserves fast, compassionate mental health support. Don’t wait for things to get worse if your symptoms make you feel out of control. Serene Behavioral Health is proud to stand beside our veterans – offering specialized, trauma-first care designed to restore balance, peace and purpose. Contact us today to learn how to quickly access the treatment you need.