Who is eligible?
We serve Veterans and their families from all eras and regardless of discharge status. You do not need to be service connected to the VA to participate in VFWC services. Families must have at least one participating member residing in the state of California. We also see Guard and Reservist families.
How much does it cost?
All VFWC services are free of charge. Insurance is not required.
When are appointments available?
Appointments are available during family friendly hours throughout the day and early evening along with Saturday morning. In person appointments are available Monday – Thursday from 830am – 430pm and Telehealth appointments are available Monday – Friday from 830am – 7pm and 8am – 12pm on Saturday.
How can I make an appointment?
To make an appointment call our main office number at 310-478-3711 x42793. Our Services Coordinator will take down your information and can answer any questions you may have. After that you will be assigned a Resilience Trainer and they will contact you to set up your initial consultation. You may also email us at info@vfwc.ucla.edu.
I am a service provider. How can I make a referral?
You can make a referral by obtaining verbal consent from your client/patient and calling us at 310-478-3711 x42793.
How long will it take to get my appointment?
The time between your initial call and first appointment is usually 1-3 weeks.
Who provides services at the VFWC?
Our team is made up of masters level or higher mental health clinicians with specialties, including social work, psychology, and marriage and family therapy. Many of the VFWC team members are Veterans or military spouse/partners themselves and every team member has specific experience and/or training to meet the unique needs of military families and Veterans. We use the term Resilience Trainer to describe our providers as a way to highlight the skill-building work they do with individuals and families.
What can I expect for my first appointment?
Before your first session, your Resilience Trainer will provide you with a consent form and initial survey to fill out. If you are arriving in person, they will supply directions to our office (parking is free). If you have chosen online services through our Telehealth platform, you will receive a link to the session.
During your first session, your Resilience Trainer will answer any questions you may have and spend time listening to you in order to understand your needs. They will take time to further explain how our services might help and/or provide linkage to other resources that may be helpful.
How often do I attend and how long are the sessions?
Sessions usually take place once a week and can be modified to suit your specific needs. Sessions are usually 60 to 90 minutes in length.
How does the Telehealth platform work?
Our HIPAA compliant TeleHealth platform utilizes Zoom. After an initial phone contact with your Resilience Trainer, you will receive a link to the scheduled session. You’ll need an internet connected computer/laptop and a private, comfortable space to engage during the session. While smartphones may be used in a pinch, they are not ideal for engagement during the sessions.
How are VFWC services different from therapy?
VFWC does not provide therapy. Therapy often involves treatment of a specific mental health condition such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress (PTSD) and others. Treatments provided in therapy are specifically crafted to help with these types of conditions. Our services teach skills and strategies to help Veterans and their families overcome challenges. Services at the VFWC help you learn and practice strategies to strengthen you relationships and create a healthy environment for your family to thrive.
I already receive therapy services elsewhere. Can I still participate?
Many VFWC participants are engaged in therapy at the VA or in the community while they participate in VFWC services. Because our programs are focused on practical skill building and strengthening relationships, they often compliment what you may be learning in therapy. For instance, you may be working individually with a therapist to address symptoms of post-traumatic stress while working on communication with your partner/family members at the VFWC so everyone can have a better understanding of each other’s experience. It is sometimes recommended that families or individuals engage in therapy for a specific challenge like PTSD or anxiety before starting services at the VFWC. If you are not sure what options might be right for you, please contact our Services Coordinator.
How can I keep up to date on VFWC activities and events?
Sign up for our newsletter and other important announcements here: LINK