How Veterans Can Obtain A VA Referral For Mental Health Services
Navigating the VA referral process for mental health services can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when you are already managing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, military transition challenges, or other emotional health concerns. Understanding how the process works ahead of time can help reduce delays and make it easier to access the support you deserve.
VA Community Care allows eligible veterans to receive mental health services from approved providers outside of a VA facility when certain access or eligibility requirements are met. Through this program, veterans may be able to access virtual therapy and psychiatry services with Telemynd from licensed providers across the country. Veterans may qualify for Community Care services when the VA cannot schedule care within access standards, when they live far from a VA facility, when specialized behavioral health support is needed, or when virtual care is determined to be a more accessible or clinically appropriate option. In some cases, Community Care may also help support continuity of care recommendations based on an individual’s treatment needs.
Before contacting the VA, it may be helpful to have your VA identification information available, along with any current insurance information, preferred appointment availability, and a general understanding of the support you are seeking. Having information regarding any prior mental health treatment may also help streamline the referral process. If you are a veteran seeking a new referral from the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) for Community Care through Telemynd, follow these steps below.
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Contact your PCP’s office to discuss your mental health needs and request a new referral for services with Telemynd. You can also send a message on MyHealtheVet to set up an appointment through our online portal.
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During your appointment, explain your specific mental health concerns and why you believe the Community Care Network (CCN) might be the best fit for your situation. Mention the Mission Act as a reference for eligibility. Your PCP will assess your needs and determine if a CCN referral is appropriate, providing guidance on the next steps.
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If your PCP agrees that a CCN referral is necessary, ask them to submit the referral to Telemynd. Your PCP will submit the referral for services to the VA. Once approved, you will be notified by your VA care team.
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After the referral is submitted, follow up with the Office of Community Care Network to ensure timely processing. Call the CCN Customer Support line at (877) 881-7618 to confirm your referral status. If asked for a provider preference, request Telemynd. Remember to record key details like the referral number and dates.
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Once approved, you’ll receive information about your assigned Community Care provider. If Telemynd is your provider, we will contact you to choose a provider and schedule your first appointment.
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Remain proactive throughout the process. If you encounter challenges or delays, reach out to our VHA Community Care team at (339) 300-4442 for assistance. We are here to help ensure a smooth transition to Community Care.
These steps serve as general guidance. Always consult your VHA health care team for specific instructions tailored to your situation.
Already Receiving Care Through The VA
If you are already receiving mental health services through the VA, you can ask your current provider or care team about transitioning your care through Community Care with Telemynd. Many veterans are able to continue receiving support through approved community-based providers when clinically appropriate and authorized by the VA. You can also contact the CCN Customer Support line at (877) 881-7618 and request to be connected with community-based support through Telemynd. Once your referral or authorization has been approved, the VA will send us the necessary referral documentation for services. A member of our care coordination team will then contact you to help match you with a provider and schedule your first appointment.
What Happens After Your Referral Is Approved
Once your referral has been authorized, the VA may send the referral and authorization details directly to Telemynd for scheduling. Our team will review the referral information, verify the approved services, and contact you to coordinate your first appointment based on your preferences, availability, and clinical needs. Referral timelines can vary depending on your VA facility, regional authorization requirements, and appointment availability. Telemynd’s care coordination team works closely with veterans throughout the scheduling process to help reduce delays and improve access to care.
Mental Health Services Available Through Telemynd
Telemynd provides virtual mental health services for veterans, military members, and their families through a nationwide network of licensed providers. Services may include therapy, psychiatry, medication management, trauma and PTSD support, anxiety and depression treatment, stress management, adjustment counseling, and relationship or family support depending on individual treatment needs and referral authorizations. Appointments are conducted virtually, allowing veterans to access care from home while maintaining flexibility around work schedules, military obligations, family responsibilities, and transportation barriers.
Need Help Understanding The Referral Process
Navigating the VA referral and Community Care process can sometimes feel confusing, especially for veterans seeking care for the first time or transitioning providers. Telemynd’s care coordination team may be able to help explain the referral process, answer general questions about Community Care, and help you understand the next steps required before scheduling services.