The military is a unique culture with its own norms, traditions, and language. The need for mental health services by military personnel and families has increased due to culturally specific changes. Unfortunately, many counselors lack the knowledge necessary to work effectively with this population, perpetuated by absence of military inclusion in program curricula. Given the current demand for equal employment of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and reimbursement through TRICARE, understanding military culture will be instrumental for counselors and counselor educators.
Erin is a 3rd year doctoral student at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Clinical and research interests include military, issues of identity, marriage and family counseling, and grief and loss.
