Veterans Affairs Medical Center – Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences, Providence RI: Addiction Treatment Program Summary
The Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center in Providence, Rhode Island, offers specialized and comprehensive addiction treatment through its Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences division. This program is dedicated to serving the unique needs of veterans struggling with substance use disorders (SUD) and co-occurring mental health conditions. The approach is deeply rooted in evidence-based practices, ensuring that beneficiaries receive the highest standard of care tailored to their personal history and combat-related experiences.
Program Philosophy and Approach
The core philosophy of the Providence VA addiction program centers on holistic recovery, acknowledging that substance abuse often intertwines with conditions like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, and chronic pain. Treatment is highly individualized and focuses on stabilization, skill-building, and long-term relapse prevention. The clinical team, comprising psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and substance abuse specialists, works collaboratively to provide an integrated care plan.
Services Offered
A broad spectrum of services is available to meet veterans at every stage of their recovery journey. These services are delivered through various modalities to ensure accessibility and effectiveness:
- Outpatient Counseling and Therapy (Individual and Group)
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for opioid and alcohol use disorders
- Detoxification (on an acute care basis or referral)
- Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)
- Psychoeducation Groups focusing on topics like coping mechanisms and emotional regulation
- Dual Diagnosis Treatment for co-occurring mental health challenges
Accessing Care
The facility is conveniently located at 830 Chalkstone Avenue in Providence, RI, making specialized care readily accessible to veterans throughout the region. Veterans interested in the addiction treatment program are encouraged to contact the Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences department directly to discuss eligibility, assessment procedures, and scheduling initial appointments. The VA system aims to reduce barriers to care, providing support services and linkage to essential community resources necessary for sustainable recovery.
The commitment of the Providence VA to its veteran population is reflected in its dedication to providing a supportive, confidential, and recovery-focused environment where veterans can address their substance use issues and reclaim control over their lives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What types of addiction are treated at the Providence VA?
The program treats a wide range of substance use disorders, including but not limited to alcohol use disorder, opioid dependence, and polysubstance abuse.
Is this treatment specifically for veterans?
Yes, the services provided by the Veterans Affairs Medical Center are specifically for eligible veterans, ensuring the care is specialized for military and veteran experiences.
Does the program offer services for co-occurring mental health conditions?
Absolutely. Integrated dual diagnosis treatment is a key component of the program, addressing addiction alongside mental health conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression simultaneously.
What is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?
MAT involves the use of FDA-approved medications in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies to provide a whole-patient approach to the treatment of substance use disorders.
