MDH Recognized for Counseling and Therapy Supporting Veterans

Macomb, IL – McDonough District Hospital’s Behavioral Health Services department is now a recognized non-VA provider for Veterans to receive counseling/therapy under the coverage of their VA benefits. This will allow for easier access to services for those who have had to travel for appointments, or may not have been able to access services due to transportation difficulties.

This initiative was launched by staff member Becky Derry LCPC, out of interest and desire to support returning veterans and their families who have dedicated their lives to serve and protect.

“My appreciation of Veterans began with my grandfather’s service in WWII and the stories he shared,” Derry said. “The idea that I could personally make an impact in support developed much later in life during my years working as a therapist.”

Derry completed a 16-course Veteran’s Behavioral Health Post Master’s Certificate through the Department of Defense, and attended specialized training in the use of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy with Veterans and Military Personnel addressing combat related Post Traumatic Stress.

Her training encompasses topics such as military culture, family support, deployment psychology, substance abuse, depression, sexual assault and suicide among service members. Derry’s dedication to this population extends beyond office hours, as evidenced by personal recognition through an active duty service member and their family. During this service member’s recent deployment, she organized community care packages and was personally active in increasing awareness of issues faced by service members and their families.

MDH Behavioral Health Services currently employs a highly qualified and caring staff of eight licensed clinicians, two crisis specialists and coverage for after-hours emergency on-call response.

For more information about EMDR treatment contact Behavioral Health Services at (309) 836-1582; located on the lower level of Health Services Building 1.