Emory Healthcare Veterans Program marks 10 years of impact during PTSD Awareness Month

June 13, 2025

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Jennifer Johnson McEwen

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As the nation observes PTSD Awareness Month in June, the Emory Healthcare Veterans Program (EHVP) proudly marks a decade of dedicated service, celebrating 10 years of delivering transformative mental health care to post-9/11 veterans and service members. Since its founding in 2015, EHVP has been a national leader in treating the invisible wounds of military service, providing high-quality care at no cost to those who have served.

One of four academic medical centers nationwide that comprise the Wounded Warrior Project’s Warrior Care Network, EHVP is part of a national initiative to provide specialized mental health care for veterans and service members. EHVP offers evidence-based treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury, military sexual trauma, anxiety and depression. The program welcomes all post-9/11 veterans and service members, regardless of discharge status, deployment history or length of service.

The program’s two-week accelerated treatment program is tailored to meet the unique needs of each participant and has been shown to significantly reduce symptoms and improve long-term outcomes. All expenses, including treatment, travel, lodging and meals, are fully covered. Care is offered in person at the Emory Brain Health Center in Atlanta or via telehealth in participating states.

Leading the program at Emory since its inception are renowned clinical psychologists Barbara O. Rothbaum, PhD, and Sheila Rauch, PhD. Rothbaum, founding executive director of EHVP, has been a pioneer in the field of PTSD since 1986, particularly known for her work in virtual reality exposure therapy.

“From day one, our mission was clear — to heal the invisible wounds of those who served our country and help our warriors reclaim peace and purpose in their lives,” says Rothbaum, a professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Emory University School of Medicine and director of the Trauma and Anxiety Recovery Program. “Witnessing thousands of profound transformations of our veterans has been both humbling and inspiring. It reinforces our commitment every day. When we hear veterans say, ‘This program saved my life,’ we know that our vision has not only been realized but is truly vital.”

The impact of the program is significant and measurable. To date, EHVP has helped more than 3,500 veterans and service members reclaim their lives, a milestone made more meaningful during PTSD Awareness Month — a time to spotlight available resources and encourage those suffering in silence to reach out for support.

More than 75% of program graduates achieve clinically significant improvement, 94% complete the full program — which is double the rate of traditional outpatient therapy — and 96% are satisfied with their care.

“Our team-based, interdisciplinary model combines clinical therapy with wellness and family support, providing a strong foundation for sustainable recovery. Our participants feel better faster and stay better longer. They sleep more regularly, regain emotional stability and rebuild relationships,” says Rothbaum.

Rauch, the program’s deputy director, brings more than 25 years of experience in PTSD and anxiety disorders, strengthening the program with her expertise in veteran and military mental health, PTSD and treatment outcomes research. She is the Mark and Barbara Klein Distinguished Professor at Emory University School of Medicine and also serves as director of Mental Health Research and Program Evaluation for the Atlanta VA Healthcare System.

“As we celebrate this 10-year milestone, our goal remains unchanged — to transform mental health care for America’s heroes and ensure that no veteran walks the path to recovery alone,” says Rauch.“This journey requires a community of support. Whether you’re referring a veteran, sharing our message or supporting our mission to provide no-cost, life-changing care, your involvement helps light the path to healing for those who have served.”

For more information, please visit the Emory Healthcare Veterans Program website.

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