In an exclusive interview, Cohen Clinic Director Janet Covington shared insights with Pacific Business News about their most recent grant from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The substantial grant will enable the clinic to expand its vital mental health services for military families residing in Neighbor Islands and other areas.
Covington expressed her gratitude for the support they have received from the VA. "We are extremely thankful for this generous grant, as it allows us to further our mission and provide even more comprehensive mental health care services to veterans and military families," she said.
The clinic has been dedicatedly serving active duty service members, National Guard members, reservists, veterans, and their family members. With this financial boost from the VA, they can now focus on expanding access to quality mental health care within a wider geographical area.
"Our primary goal is always ensuring that those who have served our country receive top-notch care when they need it most," said Covington. "This funding enables us not only to offer additional resources but also reach outlying communities where limited access often prevents military families from seeking help."
One significant challenge faced by many military personnel and their dependents is finding accessible mental health care providers who understand unique issues such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or combat-related stressors. By increasing availability in underserved areas like Neighbor Islands, Cohen Clinic aims to bridge that gap effectively.
Besides providing essential counseling services tailored specifically for veterans dealing with PTSD or other trauma-related conditions resulting from deployments overseas or combat experiences at home base; these clinics also give spouses children emotional support during difficult times caused by separation due deployment transitions between bases new schools friends work environments – all which impact well-being overall familial stability positively negatively depending individual circumstances personal coping mechanisms available resources professional guidance assistance required needed desired either party parties involved affected concerned touched impacted directly indirectly vicariously personally.
In addition to mental health services, the VA grant will also facilitate greater collaboration between Cohen Clinic and other organizations that share a similar commitment towards supporting military families. Covington emphasized the importance of building strong partnerships in order to maximize impact for those they serve.
"By working closely with our community partners, we can ensure that every veteran or military family member has access to appropriate resources for their well-being," she said. "Together, we can create an environment where no one who has served is left behind."
As Cohen Clinic continues its expansion efforts backed by this significant VA grant, it brings hope and much-needed assistance to countless veterans and their families struggling with mental health issues. The unwavering dedication demonstrated by Janet Covington and her team serves as a testament to the value placed on caring for those who have bravely served our nation.