The Veterans’
Outreach Center, a branch of the Department
of Veterans Affairs, initially specialized in readjustment
counseling for veterans of combat hostilities in Vietnam
and Vietnam era veterans (August 1964 – May 1975)
with readjustment problems. It was authorized by Public
Law 96-22, which was enacted on June 13, 1979. This legislation
was enacted after numerous studies had indicated that Vietnam
veterans were experiencing numerous socio-psycological difficulties
unique to their situation.
These studies further indicated that the
Vietnam veteran was extremely reticent to seek assistance
through traditional veterans’ organizations and that
a non-traditional approach would be more appropriate to
reach this population. Begun as “store-front”
community-based counseling centers, Congress initially intended
this program to operate for two years, but due to its overwhelming
success, the program was extended and continues to expand.
Congress passed legislation in 1990 expanding
readjustment-counseling benefits to war zone veterans of
the Persian Gulf, Panama, Grenada, and Lebanon. On November
4, 1993, Congress enacted legislation to improve health
care services for veterans, including priority counseling
for sexual trauma/harassment and related health care services
for veterans of all wars, all conflicts, and all eras.
More recently on October 9, 1996, Public
Law 104-262 extended Vietnam in-theater dates
(February 1961 – May 1975), and established eligibility
for World War II and Korean War veterans who served in-theater
during combat operations.
The Vet Center assists those veterans who
have failed to make adequate socio-psychological adjustment
and re-entry into civilian life. Psychological assessment,
mental health services, and readjustment counseling, either
individual, group, or conjoint, is available for any eligible
veteran.
TACOMA
VET CENTER HISTORY
The Tacoma Vet Center was officially chartered
in 1979 in an office on Pacific Avenue and 48th Street.
In 1995 the center moved to the present location. The staff
includes a team leader, three mental health counselors,
and an office manager. We employ veteran work-study students
to assist the office manager. The building is handicap accessible,
has adequate parking and is close to public transportation.
Our hours are
8:00 A.M. until 4:30 P.M., Monday through Friday,
with evening groups and individual sessions available.
Contact our office by calling during the office hours mentioned
above: 1-253-565-7038 |
