Has anyone had bad experiences with VA psychologists?

Cpl Jeff Buckman I worked as a nurse on the civilian side of mental illness and many of my coworkers are now at the VA, including several veterans. I can personally vouch for their excellence and know many other vets that would do the same. I have also worked with civilians that transferred over and many of them are so overworked for the sheer number of clients they currently see and group therapy that is available here in Kansas. Not everyone is a good fit and it does take a while to develop trust. Think about what you already know and what you are learning. Sometimes, it's easier to talk to a stranger. Sometimes, you want someone you don't have to start at square one with, especially if you are at a crucial point (deciding to ask for help or becoming one of the statistics people are so fond of quoting now, although I believe that number 22 is in flux.)

Cpl Jeff BUckman, Kudos to you! It has been my experience as a Civilian in this arena, that it depends on the individual. PTS is not owned by the Military. It is an equal opportunity predator, that strikes domestic violence, children of abuse etc. That being said to answer you directly, I say if you know yourself well enough to place yourself aside from being that inevitable sponge to help just one ithan go for it. But I can only caution you that you will meet and find more VA PSYCH doctors that need help, than the patients themselves. Always remember DO NO HARM. Good Luck and God Speed. This is what gets me through some of the tough ones......

Cpl Jeff Buckman

The VA always needs more qualified psychologists, and I also feel that more of them should be veterans. I strongly encourage you to follow your dreams and make a difference in even one fellow vet's life!