The Mid-Atlantic Fleet and Family Support Center has become the first Naval region in the country to offer remote counseling services, developed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Sailors and their families can now receive mental health support without having to visit one of the Fleet and Family Services centers in Hampton Roads. This service provides an additional layer of privacy for patients, allowing them to schedule sessions during breaks or from the comfort of their own homes.
The Northeast Region, which includes Hampton Roads, has ten counselors dedicated to providing remote counseling services. Fleet and Family Services has implemented a three-day waiting period for new patients, excluding emergencies. As the largest Navy region, the Mid-Atlantic region was the first to fully launch this service on a full-time basis. The rollout has been gradual, with some centers fully-staffed and others operating at around 75-80% capacity. Overall, staffing for counseling positions in the Mid-Atlantic region is at approximately 80%.
To schedule an appointment for remote clinical counseling, individuals can call 1-855-205-6749. This new service provides sailors and their families with convenient and confidential access to mental health support, ensuring that they can easily seek help when needed.
