LACDMH has launched the Veteran and Military Family Services (VMFS) program to enhance mental health care for veterans and their families in Los Angeles County. Led by Dr. Rhonda Higgins, alongside Program Managers Anh Tran and Nancy Pelayo, VMFS builds on LACDMH’s veteran-focused legacy with a commitment to comprehensive, accessible support.
Why VMFS?
Veterans often face barriers when seeking mental health care due to cultural stigmas and systemic gaps. “Veterans engage better with peers who understand their unique experiences,” explains Dr. Higgins. VMFS’s peer-driven approach fosters trust, encouraging veterans to seek support for housing, employment, education, and trauma-related needs.
Key motivations for the program include:
- Cultural Challenges: Veterans often avoid discussing mental health due to perceptions of weakness.
- Unmet Needs: Studies reveal high levels of isolation, depression, and trauma among veterans.
- Improved Access: VMFS bridges gaps by offering a “mental health hug,” providing wraparound care that includes therapy, case management, and housing support.
What’s New?
- Expanded Reach: VMFS operates in all eight service planning areas (SPAs), increasing access in high-risk and underserved communities.
- In-House Mental Health Care: Veterans can now receive therapy, case management, and soon, psychiatric services, without external referrals.
- Streamlined Support Line: Veterans calling LACDMH’s helpline can now directly access mental health resources or benefits navigation with a single call.
Affordable, Accessible Care
VMFS primarily serves low-income veterans and their families, with most services covered by VA health care, Medicare, Medicaid, or Medi-Cal. For those without coverage, financial assistance or sliding-scale payment options are available.
Looking Ahead
VMFS is committed to meeting veterans where they are, providing field-based services and building new physical locations. “We go wherever the veteran is,” says Pelayo.
Our Mission
“Veterans served our country. It’s our turn to serve them,” affirms Pelayo.
For more information or to access services, contact LACDMH’s Veteran Support Line (1-800-854-7771) and select option *3.