As a leading treatment provider in the DMV for the last 40 years, Columbia Counseling Center continues to look for innovative ways to provide mental health services to the Columbia and surrounding communities. While we continue to navigate the changing landscape as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are proud to say our efforts to maintain a consistent treatment platform for both psychological and psychiatrist needs have weathered the storm.  Our successful return to limited in office appointments and the continuation of telehealth services have allowed us to remain open to new service offerings and outreach opportunities.  As a result, we are excited to announce a partnership with Veterans Affairs that will allow easier access to mental health services in the community for members of the Veteran population.

As stated by the organization, “the VA recognizes that while the health care landscape is constantly changing, VA’s unique population and broad geographic demands will continue to require community-based care for Veterans. VA is committed to providing eligible Veterans with the care they need when and where they need it.”

A significant component of having one method for Veterans to receive care from community providers is the ability for VA to purchase community services through the CCN contracts awarded to Third-Party Administrators (TPAs).  Maryland has been designated an eligible region with Optum serving as a third-party administration source for Veterans.  As a designated treatment provider, we are now able to see eligible Veterans for all treatment modalities.  With our proximity to many local military installations and VA headquarters, we feel we uniquely positioned to expand our community reach especially during these difficult times.To obtain more information about this exciting new initiative, please call the main office at 410-992-9149 or send an email inquiry to columbiacounselingmd@gmail.com.

-Sunny Pippins, VP of Clinical Operations, Mid-Atlantic Region