Veterans Mental Health Clinic Marks Five Years of Service

The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic in Mililani, Hawaii, celebrated its five-year anniversary on September 20, 2023. As a vital part of the Cohen Veterans Network (CVN), this clinic focuses on providing accessible mental health care to military families and veterans who may have difficulty obtaining the necessary support.

Since its inception, the clinic has facilitated over 25,000 clinical sessions, according to Anthony Hassan, the president and CEO of CVN. He expressed optimism for the future, stating, “We expect many, many more to come.” CVN was established by billionaire investor and owner of the New York Mets, Steven Cohen, who was motivated by his son’s experiences in the Marine Corps and the mental health challenges faced by veterans.

Hassan noted that Cohen has committed nearly $400 million to ensure that veterans and their families have access to quality mental health care. The clinic’s primary focus is on veterans and service members who enlisted after the events of September 11, 2001. The Department of Veterans Affairs reports a concerning rise in suicide rates among veterans, with an increase of 58.2% for those aged 55 to 74 and a staggering 95.3% for veterans between 18 and 34 from 2001 to 2020.

Local state representative Trish La Chica, who represents Mililani, highlighted the importance of the clinic in a community with a significant military presence. She described it as “a lifeline” for service members and their families, especially those transitioning to life in Hawaii. La Chica emphasized the need for integrated care, stating, “You can’t function, you can’t live a full life if you don’t care for yourself and your spirit.”

The clinic also recognizes the unique challenges faced by military families living in remote locations like Hawaii, where access to services can be limited. Holly Scanes, the clinic director, pointed out that the facility not only addresses mental health needs but also provides resources related to food, housing, and transportation. “We have a community liaison and a case manager who, from the moment they walk in, asks how can we help?” Scanes explained.

Historically, residents of the Pacific Islands have served in high numbers during post-9/11 conflicts. A study conducted by the Heritage Foundation revealed that Pacific Islanders, including Native Hawaiians, joined the Army at a rate 249% higher than that of other ethnic groups. Despite this significant contribution, access to Veterans Affairs services remains limited across Hawaii and the Pacific. The VA’s Pacific Island Healthcare System is based at Tripler Army Medical Center and serves a vast area, including Hawaii, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa.

John Alamodin, director of the state Office of Veterans Services and an Army psychologist in the Hawaii National Guard, acknowledged the significant barriers to care for veterans living on other islands, stating, “To say it’s an issue is an understatement.” The clinic has prioritized outreach, offering remote services and telehealth options to ensure veterans across Hawaii can access care. Scanes noted that the clinic’s lead clinician is based on Kauai and that they have licensed therapists available for telehealth services.

In addition to mental health resources, the clinic is equipped with facilities for in-person treatment, including a play therapy room for children and individual offices for private consultations. Scanes emphasized the clinic’s role as a community hub, allowing other organizations, such as the American Red Cross and Wounded Warriors, to utilize its space for workshops and resource sharing.

The Cohen Veterans Network distinguishes itself from many VA programs by accepting veterans with dishonorable or “other than honorable” discharges. This inclusivity acknowledges the challenges faced by these veterans in accessing benefits. Furthermore, CVN expands its definition of military family to include hanai relatives and others identified by veterans as part of their ohana.

As the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic enters its next chapter, it continues to serve as a crucial resource for veterans and their families, ensuring they receive the care and support they need in their communities.