Using Military OneSource Non-medical Counseling

Everyone needs support at times, and military life comes with its own unique challenges. That’s why the Defense Department offers free, flexible, confidential counseling to help you manage life’s bumps, address daily stress, and navigate major changes.

Military OneSource non-medical counseling addresses a range of concerns. It’s solution-focused, confidential and flexible to meet your lifestyle and needs.

A non-medical counselor can help you work through common challenges such as grief, work or relationship challenges. Non-medical counseling can also prepare you for upcoming life changes, like adjusting to PCS moves and deployments.

Military OneSource non-medical counselors have a master’s or doctoral degree in a mental health field and a license to practice independently. Most are trained in military life, so they understand your circumstances and can tailor solutions to your unique needs.

If eligible for non-medical counseling, you will receive up to 12 sessions with a non-medical counselor per issue. Sessions are available in person, by phone, live chat or by video.

The first step toward accessing Military OneSource non-medical counseling is speaking with a consultant. You can call 800-342-9647 or chat with a Military OneSource consultant 24/7/365. You can also use our online request function to schedule an initial screening at a time that works for you. OCONUS/international? View calling options.

A RAND Corporation study showed that non-medical counseling is effective in reducing stress, improving relationships and boosting resilience. The study also revealed that most people who initiated non-medical counseling experienced less stress in their work and personal lives. Read more about the study.

MilitaryOneSource non-medical counseling is available to:

• Active-duty service members and their immediate family members.
• National Guard and reserve service members (regardless of activation status) and their immediate family members who are listed in DEERS.
• Designated Department of Defense expeditionary civilians and their immediate family members.
• Service members and their immediate family members who are listed in DEERS for 365 days post separation.
• Surviving spouses who have not remarried.
• Learn more about eligibility for Military OneSource.

A Military OneSource consultant will confirm your eligibility the first time you call or chat.

ARTICLES

• Face Challenges Effectively With Non-medical Counseling for Youth
• Understanding Confidential Non-Medical Counseling Services

Non-medical counseling can help with:

• Deployments, PCS and other adjustments
• Relationship problems
• Parenting skills
• Stress management
• Decision-making
• Personal goals
• Communication
• Grief and loss

Non-medical counseling does not address the following issues:

• Active suicidal or homicidal thoughts
• Sexual assault
• Child abuse
• Domestic violence
• Alcohol and substance abuse
• The diagnosis of or treatment of a diagnosed medical mental health conditions.

If you need help with any of these issues, contact the Military Crisis Line.

There are other avenues to explore if you or a family member are not eligible for Military OneSource non-medical counseling. If you are enrolled in TRICARE, inquire about medical counseling and treatment programs.

Military OneSource non-medical counseling is confidential. Your personal information will not be provided to the military chain of command, shared with family or friends or released to other agencies. There are exceptions. Counselors are required by law to report illegal activities or situations where there could be danger to you or to others.

When you call Military OneSource, you will speak with a consultant who will:

• Confirm your eligibility for services.
• Authorize up to 12 counseling sessions if you’re eligible.
• Explain the help they can offer and the limits of confidentiality.
• Ask you about the kind of counseling you prefer.
• Go over a list of counselors who fit your preferences.

Hear an example of a call center experience
This Military OneSource recording is a dramatization of a call based on a real-life situation. Voices, personally identifiable information and other details have been redacted and/or changed to protect the privacy of the caller.

Connect with a Military OneSource consultant 24/7 to schedule your non-medical counseling appointment.