Dr. Gordon T. Austin: Veterans Use Experience to Form Mental Health Careers

NEW YORK, NY, August 23, 2012

According to a recent CNN article, new studies have revealed that an estimated 11 to 20 percent--between 220,000 and 400,000--of veterans suffer post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Of those statistics only half of those individuals seek out medical care. In addition, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has unveiled statistics that approximately 18 veterans commit suicide every day. In order for professionals in mental health to appropriately address these ongoing problems among veterans, the Massachusetts School of Professional Psychology launched a program entitled "Train Vets to Treat Vets." According to the article, the program integrates study between veterans and non-veteran clinicians to help incorporate first-hand experience into treatment methods. Dr. Gordon T. Austin, a respected US Navy veteran, remains concerned about the varying issues that face active duty soldiers when they return home; he explains that this program could do a lot to minimize the stigma attached to mental health treatment.

Started less than a year ago, Train Vets to Treat Vets, has expanded enrollment and implemented several initiatives. CNN notes that among the program's goals are plans to "mentor new veterans, provide services to at-risk and homeless veterans and educate the public about ways they can help." In response to the program, Dr. Gordon T. Austin comments, "Train Vets to Treat Vets is really a win-win program. Not only does it give veterans a chance to enter a new career using their experienced gained during their military service, but it also provides struggling veterans with a more welcoming atmosphere that will allow them to overcome PTSD issues."

In addition, the program is also cited to help non-veteran clinicians better understand the PTSD experience, and thus improve treatment plans for affected patients. According to Nick Covino, President of Massachusetts School of Professional Psychology, this unique student collaboration is "radically changing the academic culture of [the] learning community." Dr. Gordon T. Austin concludes, "As a medical professional, I have used my knowledge both in and out of military environments; they can be very different worlds. It is welcoming to see that both veterans and practicing clinicians are breaking down barriers in communication to help troubled individuals realize that help is available."

ABOUT:

Dr. Gordon T. Austin is a United States Navy veteran and has proudly provided 38 years of service to his country. He currently devotes much of his time and attention to raising awareness and support for issues related to U.S. troops and veterans. In addition, Dr. Austin is a third-generation dentist who has loyally served the Carrollton, Georgia, community for 25 years, as well as an Honorable Fellow of the Georgia Dental Association and a Fellow of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the American College of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the American College of Dentists, and the International College of Dentists.