Veterans Affairs Medical Center – Addiction Treatment Program Summary
The Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Salem, VA, provides comprehensive mental health services, including specialized programs dedicated to treating substance use disorders and addiction. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by Veterans, the program is designed to deliver holistic and personalized care focused on achieving long-term recovery and improved quality of life. This facility, located at 1970 Roanoke Boulevard, offers a confidential and supportive environment where Veterans can address both their addiction and any co-occurring mental health conditions.
Comprehensive and Veteran-Focused Care
Addiction treatment at the Salem VA is integrated into the broader healthcare system, ensuring seamless access to medical and mental health resources. The approach is multifaceted, incorporating evidence-based therapies tailored to meet the needs of those who have served. Treatment options often span the continuum of care, from initial stabilization and detoxification to robust outpatient support and continuing aftercare planning.
The dedicated team of healthcare professionals includes addiction specialists, psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and nurses who collaborate to craft an individualized recovery plan. Key therapeutic components are utilized to help Veterans understand the roots of their addiction, develop essential coping mechanisms, and prevent relapse.
Key Services Offered
A range of structured programs and services are available to support recovery:
- Individual and Group Psychotherapy: Focused on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Utilizing FDA-approved medications to help manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms, particularly for opioid and alcohol use disorders.
- Trauma-Informed Care: Specialized services addressing the high correlation between military service-related trauma (PTSD) and substance use.
- Family and Relationship Counseling: Support services aimed at healing relationships damaged by addiction and building a stable support system.
- Relapse Prevention Education: Equipping Veterans with strategies to maintain sobriety after leaving formal treatment.
Focus on Long-Term Wellness
The ultimate goal of the Salem VA addiction treatment program is to facilitate a sustainable lifestyle change. By providing extensive resources and focusing on total well-being—physical, emotional, and social—the program helps Veterans reintegrate into their communities successfully. Support extends beyond clinical treatment through connections to local veteran support groups and resources, ensuring that assistance is always within reach during the journey of recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is this program exclusively for Veterans?
Yes, all services provided through the VA Salem Health Care System are specifically for eligible Veterans.
- Do I need a referral to access the addiction treatment program?
Veterans can often access mental health and addiction services by contacting the Mental Health Service directly or speaking with their VA primary care provider.
- Does the program treat co-occurring disorders?
Absolutely. The Salem VA utilizes an integrated approach to treat substance use disorders alongside mental health conditions like PTSD, depression, or anxiety.
