VA North Texas opens new mental health facility

Thanks to a total community effort, VA North Texas cut the ribbon opening its newest facility, the Denton Mental Health Annex, Aug 2.

The 4,800 square foot annex brings with it a greater ability to provide key mental health care and options for the 31,000 Veterans who live in Denton County, Texas, through its team of 11 psychiatrists, psychologists, physicians, licensed clinical social workers and administrative professionals.

Connecting Veterans and families with mental health support through in-person appointments at VA facilities, telehealth sessions, and online resources, is a top priority for the Veterans Health Administration. The North Texas Veteran population exceeds 500,000. One-third of VA North Texas Health Care System’s 134,000 active Veteran patients currently receive mental health treatment and services. Clinical space and access to care when and where a Veteran needs it can be a daunting challenge.

The Annex opening was the direct result of VA North Texas leadership, community stakeholders, area congressional members and Veteran advocates joining forces to ensure area Veterans would never have to wait for help.

“The community and their commitment to our Veterans is why the VA North Texas Mental Health Annex is here today and actively caring for patients,” said Dr. Stephen Holt, VA North Texas director. “Caring for our patients requires the support and contributions of the community where our Veterans live, work, educate and play, and Denton County is truly leading the state and nation in these efforts.”

The annex serves enrolled Veterans aged 21 to 96, from World War II to current worldwide conflicts, and every service period in-between. From post-traumatic stress, substance abuse, military sexual trauma, depression and suicide, VA North Texas clinicians and mental health professionals are enabling and equipping Veterans who seek help.

“The opening of this needed mental health facility truly demonstrates that VA North Texas and the surrounding communities are united and committed to doing whatever it takes to do right by the Veterans who seek help after serving our country,” said Dr. Jennifer Adams, VA North Texas psychologist.

VA North Texas is home to the largest and most complex mental health function in VHA, with over 600 specialized provider professionals.

Contributor: Jeffrey Clapper is the chief of communications and community engagement for VA North Texas Health Care System.