Many community programs and organizations like Military OneSource offer free helpful resources for active duty service members (ADSMs) and their families including financial planning, legal assistance and behavioral health counseling, among other services.
For ADSMs it is important to know that receiving a referral to a counselor from Military OneSource is not the same as being referred by your primary care manager (PCM) or obtaining approval from your service point of contact (SPOC) at the Military Medical Support Office (MMSO).
Seeking care through Military OneSource for short-term counseling (six sessions or less) is helpful if your situation does not warrant long-term treatment. However, an ADSM should notify his/her PCM regardless of how long your treatment lasts because many aspects of your health care are managed by your PCM and are essential to maintaining your fitness for duty or your ability to perform worldwide duty.
For behavioral health services offered through TRICARE, ADSMs must have a referral and prior authorization before seeking care. If you have already been treated by a civilian provider and desire additional care, be sure you notify your PCM or SPOC immediately, so continued care can be coordinated for you.
All other TRICARE Prime beneficiaries, including, active duty family members, retirees and their family members, may receive the first eight outpatient counseling sessions from a network provider without a referral or authorization from your PCM.
Military OneSource offers many other services and resources to ADSMs and their family members in addition to behavioral health services. You can visit the
Military OneSource Web site or call 1-800-342-9647.
Military OneSource and