McAtee Psychology
VAC Counselling & Assessment for Veterans
Compassionate Psychological Support for Veterans, RCMP Members & Families
What Is a VAC Assessment?
A Veterans Affairs Canada assessment is a clinical evaluation completed by a qualified healthcare professional to help determine:
- Whether a psychological or physical condition may be linked to the occupational service
- The severity and long-term impact of symptoms
- How a condition affects quality of life and daily functioning
What is the purpose of a VAC Assessment?
Once a VAC assessment and the associated forms have been completed, this information can be used so that:
- VAC can determine eligibility for disability benefits or rehabilitation services
- A psychological status point can be established so that therapeutic progress monitoring can occur.
Who may benefit from a VAC Assessment?
- Eligible Canadian Armed Forces current or retired members
- RCMP current members or veterans and their families
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Psychological Conditions Commonly Assessed Through VAC
Many veterans seek counselling or assessment for concerns that developed during or after service. Common areas addressed include:
- Trauma and stressor related disorders (e.g. post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression and mood disorders
- Adjustment disorders
- Chronic sleep concerns
- Chronic stress and burnout
- Substance-related and addictive disorders (e.g. gambling disorder, alcohol use disorder)
- Grief disorders
VAC recognizes psychiatric conditions using diagnostic criteria established through professional assessment standards.
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VAC Counselling Services
Counselling through VAC is intended to support mental health, emotional wellbeing, and recovery. Veterans may access therapy for:
- Trauma and PTSD support
- Anxiety and mood management
- Relationship and family concerns
- Stress related to military transition or retirement
- Coping with chronic pain or medical diagnoses
- Reintegration into civilian life
Veterans Affairs Canada also offers access to immediate mental health support through its Assistance Service, which provides confidential counselling and referral services for veterans, former RCMP members, families, and caregivers.
How McAtee Psychology Supports VAC Clients
At McAtee Psychology, we aim to make the process clear, respectful, and supportive. Our clinicians understand the complexities of service-related mental health concerns and work collaboratively with clients navigating VAC-related care.
Our services may include:
- Psychological counselling for veterans and first responders
- VAC-related psychological assessments and completion of VAC forms
- Trauma-informed therapy approaches
- Evidence-based treatment planning
- Documentation support when clinically appropriate
- Collaborative care focused on long-term wellness
We recognize that seeking support can feel overwhelming. Our goal is to create a safe, confidential environment where clients feel understood and supported throughout the process.
What to Expect During a VAC Assessment
A VAC psychological assessment may include:
- A 1h intake interview followed by the completion of standardized screening tools
- A second 2h structured clinical interview to discuss symptoms and functional impact
- Review of mental health history and service-related experiences
- Clinical observations and professional recommendations
- A 1h debrief to go over the results
The purpose of the assessment is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how symptoms affect functioning, daily life, and overall wellbeing.
VAC Counselling Services
Counselling through VAC is intended to support mental health, emotional wellbeing, and recovery. Veterans may access therapy for:
- Trauma and PTSD support
- Anxiety and mood management
- Relationship and family concerns
- Stress related to military transition or retirement
- Coping with chronic pain or medical diagnoses
- Reintegration into civilian life
Veterans Affairs Canada also offers access to immediate mental health support through its Assistance Service, which provides confidential counselling and referral services for veterans, former RCMP members, families, and caregivers.
How McAtee Psychology Supports VAC Clients
At McAtee Psychology, we aim to make the process clear, respectful, and supportive. Our clinicians understand the complexities of service-related mental health concerns and work collaboratively with clients navigating VAC-related care.
Our services may include:
- Psychological counselling for veterans and first responders
- VAC-related psychological assessments and completion of VAC forms
- Trauma-informed therapy approaches
- Evidence-based treatment planning
- Documentation support when clinically appropriate
- Collaborative care focused on long-term wellness
We recognize that seeking support can feel overwhelming. Our goal is to create a safe, confidential environment where clients feel understood and supported throughout the process.
What to Expect During a VAC Assessment
A VAC psychological assessment may include:
- A 1h intake interview followed by the completion of standardized screening tools
- A second 2h structured clinical interview to discuss symptoms and functional impact
- Review of mental health history and service-related experiences
- Clinical observations and professional recommendations
- A 1h debrief to go over the results
The purpose of the assessment is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how symptoms affect functioning, daily life, and overall wellbeing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral for VAC counselling?
In many cases, VAC-approved counselling may not require a physician referral, depending on eligibility and coverage arrangements.
Can therapy sessions be covered by VAC?
Eligible veterans and former RCMP members may receive counselling coverage through VAC programs or approved providers. Additionally, we can direct bill to Medavie Blue Cross for our VAC and RCMP approved providers.
What conditions qualify for a VAC assessment?
Conditions may include PTSD, anxiety, depression, chronic stress, trauma-related concerns, and other service-connected mental health difficulties.
How long does a VAC assessment take?
Assessment timelines vary depending on the complexity of the case and the type of evaluation required.
Is counselling confidential?
Yes. Psychological counselling and assessment services are confidential and follow professional privacy and ethical standards.
Start Your Journey Toward Support
If you are a veteran, former RCMP member, or family member seeking counselling or assessment services connected to Veterans Affairs Canada, McAtee Psychology is here to help.
Our team provides compassionate, professional care tailored to your needs — helping you move forward with clarity, support, and understanding.
Start Your Journey Toward Support
McAtee Psychology offers consultations for individuals seeking Transport Canada ADHD evaluations in Alberta. During this initial meeting, we will:
- Review your history and documentation
- Clarify Transport Canada requirements
- Discuss assessment scope, timelines, and fees
- Determine whether a full evaluation is appropriate
If you are in British Columbia, Saskatchewan, or elsewhere in Canada and are considering traveling to Alberta for a more cost-effective assessment option, we are happy to discuss logistics during your consultation.
To move forward, book your consultation today and ensure your assessment process is handled with clarity, professionalism, and efficiency.
Book a Consultation
McAtee Psychology
How To Get Started
Whether you prefer virtual sessions that fit into your busy schedule or in-person counselling sessions in Calgary, we are here to support you.
Onboarding for all assessment services require you to contact our clinic. Our admin team will be in touch to explain our process and get you started. You can contact us via phone or by submitting an inquiry via the contact form.
