Central Alabama VA enhances mental health treatment program

Central Alabama VA worked extensively in 2023 with the Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention to enhance the Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program.

With an unwavering commitment to the well-being of our Veterans, this revitalization of an important service marks a significant milestone in providing comprehensive care.

The revitalized program introduces a host of enhancements aimed at delivering superior care, improved security and support to those who selflessly served our country. For Veterans grappling with mental health challenges and addictive disorders needing a structured and nurturing environment, the treatment program has stood as a beacon of hope for Alabama Veterans for many years and is now prepared to provide improved services to even more Veterans.

With a 43-bed Domiciliary Care Homeless Veterans Program and a 30-bed General Domiciliary, the 73-bed program is specifically designed to address the complex needs of Veterans dealing with severe psychosocial difficulties, including homelessness and unemployment.

The program has undergone significant transformation to elevate the standard of care and support extended to Veterans. Implementing new policies has fortified security measures ensuring the safety of staff and deserving residents. The program’s group and unit programming have been thoughtfully revamped using practices that foster an environment conducive to healing and recovery, offering Veterans a more engaging path to well-being.

Group and individual therapy sessions

“This revitalization of the program speaks volumes about our commitment to providing the best and most appropriate care possible to our Veterans,” said Amir Farooqi, Central Alabama Director. “Through innovation and collaboration, we’re setting new standards for their well-being.”

Both group and individual therapy sessions seamlessly incorporate practices to maximize treatment outcomes. Recognizing the imperative of reintegration into society, the program offers residents life skills training and vocational components.

The program honors the pivotal role of family and support networks in the recovery journey. Residents are empowered to involve their families in treatment processes with opportunities for participation in treatment team conferences.

Reflecting on the program’s significance, Gabrielle Franklin, program manager, shared that “Our Veterans deserve the best, and that’s precisely what this revitalized program aims to deliver. We are not just healing. We are transforming lives.”

With innovation, collaboration and a dedicated focus on safety and support, Central Alabama VA aspires to offer a program that not only addresses the needs of Veterans but surpasses their expectations.