VA Healthcare Systems of Connecticut: Substance Abuse Treatment Program
The VA Healthcare Systems of Connecticut, located at the West Haven VA Medical Center, offers comprehensive and specialized treatment for Veterans struggling with substance use disorder (SUD). Dedicated to serving those who have served our country, this program provides a confidential and supportive environment where recovery is personalized and clinically managed. Their approach integrates medical care with evidence-based therapies to address the complex challenges associated with addiction, ensuring Veterans receive holistic care tailored to their unique needs.
Treatment Programs and Services Offered
The West Haven campus provides a variety of SUD services, ranging from traditional outpatient care to more intensive programs, ensuring continuity of care regardless of the severity of the addiction. These services are delivered by a multidisciplinary team of clinicians, including physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and nurses.
Outpatient and Intensive Care Options
Veterans can access several levels of care through the VA Connecticut Healthcare System’s SUD program:
- Outpatient Addiction Recovery Service (OARS): This service offers flexible scheduling for ongoing therapy, counseling, and relapse prevention strategies while Veterans maintain their daily routines.
- Opioid Treatment Program (OTP): For those struggling with opioid addiction, the VA offers medication-assisted treatment (MAT), combining FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies.
- SUD Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) / Substance and Addiction Day Program (SADP): This structured, high-intensity program provides several hours of treatment per week, allowing Veterans to receive comprehensive support without requiring overnight stays.
Focus on Veteran Wellness
The treatment philosophy emphasizes mental health integration, recognizing that SUD often co-occurs with conditions like PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Treatment plans are designed to stabilize co-occurring disorders simultaneously, promoting lasting sobriety and improving overall quality of life. Furthermore, the facility ensures that all care is sensitive to the military experience, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and shared experience among participants.
Contact and Location Information
The Substance Abuse Treatment Program is housed within the West Haven VA Medical Center campus, providing easy access to all the general medical and specialized Veteran support services offered there.
Address: 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT 06516. The main phone number for the West Haven VA Medical Center is 203-932-5711, which serves as the entry point for most departmental inquiries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of substances are treated at this facility?
The program treats a wide range of substance use disorders, including alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, and other illicit or prescription drug addictions.
Are the SUD services covered for all Veterans?
Coverage for services depends on the Veteran’s eligibility for VA healthcare; however, the VA is committed to providing necessary treatment for SUD, and Veterans are encouraged to contact the facility directly to discuss eligibility and enrollment.
Do I need an appointment to start the treatment process?
Yes, while the facility is part of a major medical center, it is recommended to call the main contact number (203-932-5711) or the mental health care line to initiate the intake and assessment process for the specific SUD program you are interested in.
