Presented by Donna Coakley, LCPC
I. Introduction to Military Culture
A. Definition of military culture B. Importance of cultural competence when working with service members C. Overview of branches of service (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force, Coast Guard)
II. Core Values and Traditions
A. Honor, duty, loyalty, selfless service, integrity B. Customs and courtesies (saluting, uniforms, ranks) C. Chain of command and respect for authority D. Group identity and unit cohesion
III. The Military Lifestyle
A. Frequent relocations and deployments B. Military family dynamics C. Transition challenges (active duty to civilian life) D. Work-life balance and operational tempo E. The impact of military service on mental and physical health
IV. Communication and Interaction Styles
A. Direct communication and discipline B. Respect for hierarchy and protocols C. Use of acronyms and military jargon D. Sensitivity around topics such as combat, trauma, and loss
V. Common Challenges Faced by Military Members
A. PTSD and mental health issues B. Physical injuries and long-term medical care needs C. Reintegration into civilian life (employment, identity, social connections) D. Navigating VA and military benefits systems E. Family support and child education transitions
VI. Culturally Competent Practices
A. Listening with empathy and without assumptions B. Building trust with service members and veterans C. Acknowledging service and sacrifices appropriately D. Military Identity Model E. Military Culture link to Military Mental Health
VII. Resources and Support Networks
A. Star Behavioral Health Providers B. Military OneSource and other DoD resources C. In-Transition Program, D. Give An Hour,
IX. Conclusion
A. Questions
Donna Coakley is a dedicated licensed mental health clinician with a vast number of years work in the mental health, social services and criminal justice fields. Extensively trained in the diagnosis and treatment of behavioral disorders. Mental health clinician with over 20 years of successful experience in treatment planning and assessment of clients. Recognized consistently for performance excellence and contributions to success in behavioral health field. Strengths in assessment and client care backed by training in assessment.
Cost: LCPCM members - $30 / Non-members - $40 ($5.00 fee for all refunds)
CEUs: 2 (10am to 12pm) No partial credit will be given
Registration limited!
Registration will end June 9th at 11:59pm
Zoom link will be emailed to those registered approximately 24 hours prior to class.
Class evaluation and CEU certificate link will be sent on the following Monday (June 16, 2025)
