Find a therapist or psychiatrist near you that VA will pay for.
If VA can't see you soon enough or close enough, VA can pay for care from a provider in its community care network. You can pick the provider yourself, then ask your VA team to refer you to them.
Four steps to see the provider you choose
- 1
Find a provider
Search below for someone in VA's community care network near you. Write down their name and NPI number.
- 2
Ask your VA team
Call your VA clinic or send a secure message. Ask for a community care referral to that provider.
- 3
Wait for approval
VA checks that you're eligible and prepares the referral. This can take up to 14 days.
- 4
Book and go
Schedule the appointment, then tell your VA team within 14 days. Keep your authorization letter.
Don't book before VA approves. Without an approved referral, VA may not pay. For mental health, you may qualify if the drive to VA averages more than 30 minutes, or the wait is more than 20 days. See VA's eligibility rules (opens VA.gov in a new tab).
Mental health providers near you
- All mental health
- Psychiatrists
- Psychiatric nurse practitioners
- Psychologists
- Clinical social workers
- Counselors and therapists
Therapy and testing, including neuropsychologists for TBI.
Loading...
Common questions
Can I pick my own community care therapist?
Yes. VA says you can search for an in-network community provider yourself, then ask your VA health care team for a referral to that provider. VA reviews the request, and once it's approved you can schedule the appointment.
Who qualifies for community care for mental health?
You must be enrolled in VA health care (or eligible for VA care) and meet one of VA's rules. For mental health, that includes an average drive of more than 30 minutes to a VA provider, or a wait of more than 20 days for an appointment. You may also qualify if you and your VA provider agree it's in your best medical interest.
Can I just call the provider and go?
No. You need an approved referral from VA first. If you go without one, VA may not pay. After you schedule, VA sends an authorization letter that lists the provider, the care approved and how long it lasts.
Where does this list come from?
From VA's own community care network directory, the same source VA.gov uses. We search it live each time, so it's as current as VA's list. Always confirm with the provider and your VA team before you book.
Not enrolled in VA health care?
Vet Centers offer free counseling with no VA enrollment, and many combat Veterans and family members qualify. Call 877-927-8387, any time.
Call the Vet Center Call CenterEvery option for healing
Therapies proven to work for PTSD, medication, sleep, TBI care, outdoor and alternative programs, and free apps.
See the mental health guideProvider list from VA's community care network directory, searched live. Networks change, so confirm with the provider and your VA team before booking. Helping The Brave isn't affiliated with VA and doesn't endorse any provider.