Supervisor(s): Erica Barnes, Psy.D.
Location: Alvin C. York VAMC, 3400 Lebanon Pike, Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Clinical or Research Rotation: Clinical
Number of Positions Available: 1
Anticipated Number of Face-to-Face Clinical Hours per Week: 3 to 5
Description: The Post Deployment Clinic provides care to veterans who are within 5 years of discharge from military service and have served in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan since 2001 (Operation Enduring Freedom-OEF, Operation Iraqi Freedom-OIF, Operation New Dawn- OND). This population is the closest to military service within the VA and many are often still active in the Guard or Reserves creating an opportunity for interns to learn more closely about military culture and military life.
Post Deployment veterans typically are transitioning to life post military which can include adjusting to new roles, reforming an identity, finding meaning after service, and relationship changes in and out of the home. There is a wide range of diagnoses and complexity in presenting issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, readjustment problems, relationship difficulties, traumatic brain injury, etc. Veterans in this clinic range in age from early 20’s to late 50s and have a variety of military service experiences.
This rotation consists of diagnostic interviews, making appropriate treatment recommendations, conducting individual therapy, and developing treatment plans. Couples and group therapy may also be available. The specific breakdown of these activities can be tailored to the needs of the intern. Treatment modalities utilized may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Problem Solving Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Gottman’s Couple’s Therapy.
Competency Goals: This is an opportunity to improve diagnostic and interviewing skills, enhance therapy skills for a variety of mental health related issues, treat varying degrees of trauma related disorders, and learn about transition issues from military to civilian life.
Prerequisites: Experience providing therapy with adults preferred.
Contact Information: Please contact Dr. Barnes at Erica.barnes@va.gov or 615-225-3449.