How Long Do Veterans Have to Wait Before Seeing a Mental Health Therapist?

Access to mental health treatment is one of the most important benefits for veterans in the United States. In theory, you should have the ability to meet with a qualified therapist to discuss issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suicidal ideation, survivor’s guilt, and much more. In reality, many veterans are experiencing long wait times to see therapists. How long will you have to wait? Can a VA disability benefits lawyer in Washington help?

Some Facilities Are Reporting Wait Times of Almost Five Months

According to recent reports published by sources like Common Defense and CNN in July of 2026, some veterans are waiting almost five months for their first appointment with a therapist. In addition, wait times of more than three months are common across numerous VA facilities.

These figures are completely different from the official numbers released by the VA. According to the VA Secretary, the average wait to see a therapist for the first time is just 15 days. The agency’s “target” wait time is 20 days, so an outsider might assume that the VA is exceeding expectations and making sure that veterans get help very quickly.

Why Are the VA’s Official Numbers Different?

CNN states that its journalists analyzed wait times throughout almost all of July. Using this data, they concluded that the average veteran waits much longer than the VA’s official 15-day figure. Common Defense analyzed wait times throughout May and June, coming to similar conclusions about wait times.

In response to these reports, VA officials say that these studies are incorrect or incomplete. According to the VA, a few patients with excessive wait times could skew the data. Officials also noted that once a new patient meets with their therapist for the first time, follow-up appointments are much quicker.

Critics of this logic, including the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, have accused the VA of cherry-picking data and deceiving the public. The 15-day average presented by the VA simply does not align with the real-world experiences of many veterans.

What Can I Do if I Am Experiencing Long Wait Times for a Therapist Appointment? 

You may have several options if you have waited for longer than 20 days to see a therapist. One option is to contact the VA and ask for a community care referral. Under these circumstances, the VA may be legally obliged to refer you to a private civilian therapist.

If you are dealing with a mental health emergency, you can also call the Veterans Crisis Line. Another option is to simply walk into a VA medical center emergency room and ask for help.

Can a VA Disability Lawyer in Washington Help Me See a Therapist?

If you are struggling to see a therapist or your claim has been denied by the VA, a Washington VA disability lawyer may be able to help you fight for your rights as a veteran. Gustad Law Group, PLLC proudly serves veterans in Seattle, Spokane, and Tacoma.

Sources: 

cnn.com/2026/07/28/politics/veterans-affairs-mental-health-wait-times-vis

nbcrightnow.com/national/va-mental-health-study-finds-long-waits-for-care/video_b8ca45e5-bd10-546e-bdbf-ed18d50fae88.html