Frequently Asked Questions About Confidential, Telephonic Non-medical Counseling Programs

No matter where you’re stationed, you have access to the support you need. Military OneSource offers telephonic non-medical counseling programs that allow you to work with a professional from wherever you happen to be. This option is especially beneficial to service members and their families who can’t attend in-person counseling sessions because they are overseas or due to other circumstances.

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about telephonic non-medical counseling programs:

• How do I initiate confidential telephonic non-medical counseling? Contact Military OneSource at 800-342-9647 to determine if this type of counseling is appropriate for you and your current living situation. OCONUS/International? Click here for calling options.
• Is telephone counseling meant to replace in-person non-medical counseling? Telephonic counseling increases access to support options for those who are unable to attend in-person counseling sessions, but it does not replace in-person non-medical counseling.
• What happens after the 12 sessions are completed? If you need further counseling or support for an issue that falls outside of non-medical topics, a Military OneSource consultant will help you find and access other resources.
• Can military children receive confidential telephonic non-medical counseling? Children cannot receive over-the-phone non-medical counseling services; however, Military OneSource offers support to children ages 6 to 17 in a family counseling context. Child and youth behavioral military and family life counselors are also available through your installation’s Military and Family Support Center.
• Who is eligible for telephonic non-medical counseling? Active-duty, National Guard and reserve members of any activation status, their immediate family members and survivors are all eligible for counseling services. See full eligibility requirements.
• Can counselors be trusted not to report to commanders? Sessions are completely confidential. The only exceptions are legal and military requirements to report child abuse, spouse abuse, elder abuse, sexual assault, threats of harm to self or others, and any present or future illegal activity.
• Can a family member use confidential telephonic non-medical counseling sessions without the service member’s knowledge? Family members (18 or older) can use non-medical counseling services without their service member’s knowledge. They are granted the same confidentiality protection and are subject to the same legal and military exceptions as their service member.
• Are there any issues that confidential non-medical counseling does not address? Counseling services do not address issues involving active suicidal or homicidal thoughts, sexual assault, child abuse, domestic violence, alcohol and substance abuse, or mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.

Begin your non-medical counseling sessions over the phone today by contacting a Military OneSource consultant online or by calling 800-342-9647. OCONUS/International? Click here for calling options.