Comprehensive Addiction Treatment for Veterans at American Lake VA Medical Center
The VA Puget Sound Healthcare System’s American Lake Division, located at 9600 Veterans Drive SW, Tacoma, WA, offers specialized and dedicated care for Veterans struggling with substance use disorders. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by those who have served, the American Lake VA Medical Center provides a continuum of comprehensive services designed to foster long-term recovery and improved quality of life. This program integrates evidence-based treatments within a supportive, Veteran-centric environment, acknowledging the frequent co-occurrence of addiction and mental health issues such as PTSD and depression.
Personalized Treatment Approaches
Addiction recovery is deeply personal, and the American Lake program emphasizes individualized care plans. Before beginning treatment, each Veteran undergoes a thorough assessment to determine the most effective level of care and specific therapeutic modalities. The goal is to address not only the substance dependency but also the underlying factors contributing to the disorder. Treatment options available include both inpatient and outpatient services, ensuring flexibility based on the Veteran’s needs and lifestyle.
Core Treatment Components
The facility utilizes a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating various forms of therapy and support. Veterans benefit from access to trained professionals including addiction specialists, psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and peer support specialists. Key components of the program include:
- Group Therapy and Individual Counseling: Focusing on coping skills, relapse prevention, and emotional regulation.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Utilizing FDA-approved medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings, when appropriate.
- Specialized Trauma Services: Integrating trauma-informed care to address military-related and other traumatic experiences often linked to addiction.
- Family Support and Education: Engaging family members in the recovery process to build a strong support network outside the clinical setting.
By providing these integrated services, the VA Puget Sound Health Care System helps Veterans transition toward sustained sobriety, leveraging the camaraderie and shared experiences that are central to the Veteran community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of addiction are treated at the American Lake VA Medical Center?
The facility treats a wide range of substance use disorders, including but not limited to alcohol, opioids, stimulants, and polysubstance dependencies, providing targeted care for each specific addiction.
Do I need to be enrolled in VA healthcare to access the addiction treatment program?
Generally, yes, you must be an eligible Veteran enrolled in VA healthcare to receive treatment. You can contact the main phone number at 800-329-8387 for eligibility verification and enrollment assistance.
Does the program address mental health issues that accompany addiction?
Absolutely. The American Lake VA Medical Center operates on an integrated model of care, recognizing that substance use often co-occurs with mental health conditions. Treatment plans routinely address co-occurring disorders like PTSD, anxiety, and depression simultaneously.
