Community Clergy Training Program to Support Rural Veterans Mental Health (RCCTP)

Link

https://www.ruralhealth.va.gov/docs/Community_Clergy_Training_to_Support_Rural_Veterans_Mental_Health-FINAL508c.pdf

Additional Links

Fact Sheet

Sponsor

Veterans Health Administration (VHA)

Description

Provides training and resources to clergy members, spiritual leaders, and faith communities in rural areas on the various mental health issues faced by veterans, including issues linked to addiction and substance use. Offers education on the resources and services available to support veterans and their family members.

What This Program Offers

RCCTP can provide:

  • Virtual training for clergy members focused on the issues of suicide prevention, moral injury, mental health services and referrals, and building community partnerships to support rural veterans with post-service mental health issues and their families
  • In-person consultation, specialized training events, and collaboration opportunities with local U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical center chaplains
  • Access to newsletters, webinars, and other resources with information on reintegration/transition challenges, military culture and stigma, military sexual trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and other issues related to veterans' mental health

Who Can Receive Services from This Program

Eligible participants who can receive training include:

  • Chaplains
  • Clergy members
  • Behavioral health professionals
  • Other partners and organizations supporting veterans in rural communities

Geographic Coverage

Nationwide

Application

There is no application process for participation.

For more information on becoming a RCCTP partner in your area contact:

National VA Chaplain Services
VANationalChaplainStaff@va.gov

VHA Office of Rural Health
rural.health.inquiry@va.gov

Topics

Health and Wellness • Mental Health • Suicide and Suicide Prevention • Violence, Trauma, and Abuse