Military life presents you with a number of unique challenges. Therapy can help to overcome these challenges as well as to manage symptoms of Depression, anxiety and so much more. While help is available, you may find yourself wondering how you can get it? If you have Tricare, you are likely familiar with the need for a referral for some providers. Rest assured that dependents and retirees do NOT need to have a referral for counseling, Active Duty military personnel do however require a referral.

Military families experience their fair share of emotional strain. The leaving and returning of soldiers means constant adjustment, shifting roles and routines with each deployment or PCS. Thoughts of loved ones being in danger can also be stressful. The stress placed on individuals can be intense, professional counseling can be so helpful in managing this.

Access to Counseling Through TRICARE

The Department of Defense (DoD) provides TRICARE, a collective medical program that covers all active-duty and retired military members, active National Guard and Reserves, and their dependents. TRICARE beneficiaries can seek professional services for counseling/therapy through the program’s extensive network of facilities around the world.

TRICARE is also aware that with the large number of beneficiaries in need of professional counseling, military facilities and services are not sufficient to respond to the demand. To address this, TRICARE allows military family members and Retirees, especially those with preferences for privacy and confidentiality, the flexibility to receive counseling outside their facilities.

Receiving Counseling Made Easy for TRICARE Members

While the option is welcomed by many service members and their families, they may have a difficult time finding a TRICARE provider, particularly a counselor who accepts TRICARE Prime. In response, TRICARE has made it so that dependents and Retirees can seek professional counseling without getting a doctor’s referral. Active Duty Military will still need to receive a referral to see a therapist off post.

An Act of Courage

From deployment and PCS issues to everyday concerns at home, stress can affect soldiers and their families. It takes courage to know when you need help and to seek it out. Don’t suffer in silence.

Carolina Counseling Services – Fayetteville (West), NC Office, hears you loud and clear. Our facility is a safe haven where you and your family can work with one of our independently contracted counselors. As a TRICARE beneficiary, you can get counseling without having to get a doctor’s referral. Seeking care is a courageous act that can help you to come out stronger on the other side. Get started by making a call to CCS in West Fayetteville, NC, to schedule an appointment.

There are no referrals required for dependents or retirees! Just call and make an appointment.

Tricare Prime: You have no copay or deductible, so there is no cost for you.

Tricare Select: You have a deductible that must be met each fiscal year. After you meet your deductible, you will be responsible for a copay.

Tricare Prime Retired: You will be responsible for a copay.

Tricare Select Retired: You have a deductible that must be met each fiscal year. After you meet your deductible, you will be responsible for a copay.