Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center

1111 East End Boulevard
Wilkes Barre, PA 18711

Wilkes Barre VA Medical Center PA 18711

About Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center

Wilkes Barre VA Medical Center is part of the VA network and is located in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania. They provide a range of services for veterans and their families, including treatment for addictions and substance abuse.

Their Substance Abuse Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program has 10 beds and provides detox and therapy. You’ll have individual and group counseling and life skills development, with a goal of changing your life so you won’t relapse. Additional support is provided by other branches in the hospital, including social services if you’re at risk of homelessness or need other basic necessities.

Outpatient care is available if you have less severe symptoms that don’t require 24/7 supervision. There’s also primary care and programs for specific groups like the LGBTQ+ community and minorities. Transportation is available to and from the facility. If you’re not local, outside lodging can offer discounted rates if you’re being treated by the VA center.

Latest Reviews

kathleen metcalf
2 weeks ago on Google
5
I had an audiology appt at Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center. They are the nicest people to work with in all regards. The audiologist spent 2 hrs explaining my new hearing aids. She answered all my questions. I can not say enough how pleasant and helpful both the receptionist and the audiologist were with my appt.
Renee Robinson
3 weeks ago on Google
1
Speaking strictly on my experience with the mental health dept. in Wilkes Barre. I had an apt at the Allentown site, arriving in an obvious mental crisis. No one was on site to speak with me so I communicated via 2 phone calls with the Wilkes Barre mental health couselors. Long story short they'll send me an antidepressant and call me in a few weeks to check on me. If you could of heard me, explaining in great detail, the incredible PTSD flare up I'm suffering thru, after it being under control for 22 yrs, and this antidepressant/few week follow call response was my lifeline.....The lack of any real meaningful help/ referrals left me hopeless. This hopelessness found me on the phone with the veterans crisis hotline that night because of the obvious lack of seriousness taken by the mental health provider I spoke with. Those people saved me that night. It's a shame that real veterans, in real crisis situations, even after asking for help, will fall thru the cracks still because of inadequate and ineffective help provided by an organization who prides itself on really taking care of their vets. Please pray for me thru this because I'm obviously not going to get help thru the VA. I am on my own. I called and canceled any further apps after that call because if I have to do it on my own anyways I don't need to keep apps with an agency who seemingly all say they care, but still me hung out to dry. I hope others get the real help they neec,
Tom McCarthy
1 month ago on Google
5
My experience with Audiology and Orthopedics has been fantastic. Professional, friendly and caring are only three of the positive accolades they deserve. My recent colonoscopy was performed on-time with no hassle and the whole procedure could not have gone better. IMHO, this place is outstanding.

Location

Accepted Insurance

Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center works with several private insurance providers and also accepts private payments when possible, Please contact to verify your specific insurance provider.

Call now to check and verify your insurance

800-985-8516
Question iconWho Answers?

Other Forms of Payment

Private insurance refers to any kind of healthcare coverage that isn't from the state or federal government. This includes individual and family plans offered by an employer or purchased from the Insurance Marketplace. Every plan will have different requirements and out of pocket costs so be sure to get the full details before you start treatment.

Self-pay involves paying for treatment out of your own pocket. You can use savings or credit, get a personal loan, or receive help from family and friends to fund your treatment. If you don't have insurance or your insurance plan doesn't cover a specific program, self-pay can help ensure you still get the care you need.

Financial aid can take many forms. Centers may have grants or scholarships available to clients who meet eligibility requirements. Programs that receive SAMHSA grants may have financial aid available for those who need treatment as well. Grants and scholarships can help you pai for treatment without having to repay.

Medicare is a federal program that provides health insurance for those 65 and older. It also serves people under 65 with chronic and disabling health challenges. To use Medicare for addiction treatment you need to find a program that accepts Medicare and is in network with your plan. Out of pocket costs and preauthorization requirements vary, so always check with your provider.

Medicaid is a state based program that helps lower-income individuals and families pay for healthcare. Medicaid covers addiction treatment so those enrolled can use their coverage to pay for rehab. When a program accepts Medicaid the client often pays very little or nothing out of their own pocket.

Military members, veterans, and eligible dependents have access to specific insurance programs that help them get the care they need. TRICARE and VA insurance can help you access low cost or no cost addiction and mental health treatment. Programs that accept military insurance often have targeted treatment focused on the unique challenges military members, veterans, and their families face.

Addiction Treatments

Levels of Care

outpatient iconOutpatient
Outpatient programs are for those seeking mental rehab or drug rehab, but who also stay at home every night. Outpatient services are provided at the Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center and at community based out-patient clinics (CBOC)or Veteran's Centers conveniently located throughout the surrounding area.
inpatient iconInpatient
There are occasions when treatment requires more intensive management than what could be provided through the out-patient clinics. Wilkes-Barre meets that need through provision of intensive Mental Health and/or Behavioral Services in their state of the art in-patient unit. The Veteran's needs are fully assessed on admission to ensure that any physical, emotional, mental, spiritual or social need is identified and addressed. Families are encouraged to become involved and to become active participants in helping to identify and work toward resolving problematic issues during the Veteran's stay. The SARRTP unit is a 10 bed in-patient residence unit with a day treatment program. The program offers eligible Veterans the opportunity to learn how to stay clean and sober, with an emphasis on changing behavior and lifestyle in order to promote abstinence. In this way, the Veteran is better prepared for a lifestyle based on continuing recovery. The Staff of SARRTP encourages the Veteran to meet their own personal recovery goals, as well as their goals to improve the quality of their lives and relationships (Length of stay is 21 days).
intensive-outpatient iconIntensive Outpatient
Clients engaged in intensive outpatient programs (IOP) live and work in their home community while receiving frequent, high-level care. These programs offer personalized care designed to evolve with the clients' changing needs. Many intensive outpatient rehabs require a minimum of nine hours of treatment per week, but high-risk clients and those in early recovery may receive up to 20 hours of care weekly. IOP services generally include addiction counseling, recovery education, and holistic therapies, such as massage.
aftercare iconAftercare
12-step icon12-Step
12-step programs are addiction recovery models based on Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). A number of substance abuse programs (including some drug and alcohol rehab centers) use the 12 steps as a basis for treatment. Beginning steps involve admitting powerlessness over the addiction and creating a spiritual basis for recovery. Middle steps including making direct amends to those who've been hurt by the addiction, and the final step is to assist others in addiction recovery in the same way. 12-Step offshoots including Narcotics Anonymous (NA), Cocaine Anonymous (CA), Dual Recovery Anonymous (DRA), Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous (SLAA) and Gamblers Anonymous (GA).
partial-hospitalization iconPartial Hospitalization Program
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is a short-term form of intensive rehab, usually for those with acute symptoms that are hard to manage but don’t require 24-hour care. PHPs have structured programming (i.e. individual and/or group therapy), and usually meet 3-5 days a week for around 6 hours (i.e. 9am-3m). Some PHPs are residential (patients sleep on site) and some are not, so patients sleep at home. PHPs can last from 1-6 months, and some offer transportation and meals.
medically-assisted-detox iconMedically Assisted Detox
Drug and alcohol addiction often takes a heavy toll on one's body. Over time, a physical dependence can develop, meaning the body physiologically needs the substance to function. Detox is the process of removing drugs and/or alcohol from the body, a process that can be lethal if mismanaged. Medical detox is done by licensed medical professionals who monitor vital signs and keep you safe, healthy, and as comfortable as possible as you go through detox and withdrawal.

Treatments

The goal of treatment for alcoholism is abstinence. Those with poor social support, poor motivation, or psychiatric disorders tend to relapse within a few years of treatment. For these people, success is measured by longer periods of abstinence, reduced use of alcohol, better health, and improved social functioning. Recovery and Maintenance are usually based on 12 step programs and AA meetings.

Drug rehab in Pennsylvania is devoted to the treatment of addiction. Levels of care, treatment methods, and settings differ, but the aim of each program is to end drug dependency and empower participants to achieve long-term recovery.

Many of those suffering from addiction also suffer from mental or emotional illnesses like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, or anxiety disorders. Rehab and other substance abuse facilities treating those with a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder administer psychiatric treatment to address the person's mental health issue in addition to drug and alcohol rehabilitation.

A combined mental health and substance abuse rehab has the staff and resources available to handle individuals with both mental health and substance abuse issues. It can be challenging to determine where a specific symptom stems from (a mental health issue or an issue related to substance abuse), so mental health and substance abuse professionals are helpful in detangling symptoms and keeping treatment on track.

Opioid rehabs specialize in supporting those recovering from opioid addiction. They treat those suffering from addiction to illegal opioids like heroin, as well as prescription drugs like oxycodone. These centers typically combine both physical as well as mental and emotional support to help stop addiction. Physical support often includes medical detox and subsequent medical support (including medication), and mental support includes in-depth therapy to address the underlying causes of addiction.

Programs

adult-program thumbnail image
Adult Program
Adult rehab programs include therapies tailored to each client's specific needs, goals, and recovery progress. They are tailored to the specific challenges adult clients may face, including family and work pressures and commitments. From inpatient and residential treatment to various levels of outpatient services, there are many options available. Some facilities also help adults work through co-occurring conditions, like anxiety, that can accompany addiction.
young-adult-program thumbnail image
Young Adult Program
Young adulthood can be an exciting, yet difficult, time of transition. Individuals in their late teens to mid-20s face unique stressors related to school, jobs, families, and social circles, which can lead to a rise in substance use. Rehab centers with dedicated young adult programs will include activities and amenities that cater to this age group, with an emphasis on specialized counseling, peer socialization, and ongoing aftercare.
military-program thumbnail image
Military Program
Serving in the military is both mentally and physically challenging, and can result in trauma that persists even after combat ends. Military programs are tailored to the specific and often complex needs of active duty personnel, veterans, and military families. Clients often access these programs through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Clinical Services

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a therapy modality that focuses on the relationship between one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is used to establish and allow for healthy responses to thoughts and feelings (instead of unhealthy responses, like using drugs or alcohol). CBT has been proven effective for recovering addicts of all kinds, and is used to strengthen a patient's own self-awareness and ability to self-regulate. CBT allows individuals to monitor their own emotional state, become more adept at communicating with others, and manage stress without needing to engage in substance abuse.

Whether a marriage or other committed relationship, an intimate partnership is one of the most important aspects of a person's life. Drug and alcohol addiction affects both members of a couple in deep and meaningful ways, as does rehab and recovery. Couples therapy and other couples-focused treatment programs are significant parts of exploring triggers of addiction, as well as learning how to build healthy patterns to support ongoing sobriety.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a modified form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a treatment designed to help people understand and ultimately affect the relationship between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. DBT is often used for individuals who struggle with self-harm behaviors, such as self-mutilation (cutting) and suicidal thoughts, urges, or attempts. It has been proven clinically effective for those who struggle with out-of-control emotions and mental health illnesses like Borderline Personality Disorder.

Experiential therapy is a form of therapy in which clients are encouraged to surface and work through subconscious issues by engaging in real-time experiences. Experiential therapy departs from traditional talk therapy by involving the body, and having clients engage in activities, movements, and physical and emotional expression. This can involve role-play or using props (which can include other people). Experiential therapy can help people process trauma, memories, and emotion quickly, deeply, and in a lasting fashion, leading to substantial and impactful healing.

Research clearly demonstrates that recovery is far more successful and sustainable when loved ones like family members participate in rehab and substance abuse treatment. Genetic factors may be at play when it comes to drug and alcohol addiction, as well as mental health issues. Family dynamics often play a critical role in addiction triggers, and if properly educated, family members can be a strong source of support when it comes to rehabilitation.

A variety of groups are offered to provide Veterans with support and tools for symptom management. Current Active Groups include and are specific for the WWII/Korea, Vietnam and Global War on Terror Veteran with a focus on reducing the effects of military-related trauma. Wilkes Barre VA Medical Center offers Group Therapies for PTSD, Vietnam Vets, OEF/OIF Vets, Korean Vets, Substance Abuse, Smoking Cessation, Depression, Chronic Mental Illness and Anger Management.

In individual therapy, a patient meets one-on-one with a trained psychologist or counselor. Therapy is a pivotal part of effective substance abuse treatment, as it often covers root causes of addiction, including challenges faced by the patient in their social, family, and work/school life. Focuses on improving coping skills and resolution of trauma.

Life skills trainings involve all the skills a person must have in order to function successfully in the world. These include time management, career guidance, money management, and effective communication. Truly successful addiction recovery is based on the ability to not only live substance-free, but to thrive. Life skills teaches the practical necessities of functioning in society, which sets clients up for success in life, and therefore sobriety.

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a clinical approach to helping people with substance abuse issues and other conditions shift behavior in positive ways. It is more goal-oriented than traditional psychotherapy, as MI counselors directly attempt to get clients to consider making behavioral change (rather than wait for them to come to conclusions themselves). Its primary purpose is to resolve ambivalence and help clients become able to make healthy choices freely.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) is a way of getting nicotine into the bloodstream without smoking. It uses products that supply low doses of nicotine to help people stop smoking. The goal is to provide support and behavioral strategies along with optional nicotine replacement therapy, as prescribed by the Veterans' Primary Care Physician.

Nutrition and Food Services (NFS) provides evidenced based nutritional services for Veterans and their families. NFS registered dietitian nutritionists promote wellness and disease prevention by ensuring effective nutrition education and counseling. NFS also delivers safe and high quality patient food services.

Rational Behavior Therapy (RBT) is a form of cognitive behavioral therapy meant to be short-term and comprehensive. It was intended to help clients become more self-sufficent and move forward without the need for expensive, ongoing therapy. It includes an emotional self-help method called “rational self-counseling,” the purpose of which is to give clients all the skills needed to handle future emotional issues by themselves, or with significantly less professional help.

Trauma therapy addresses traumatic incidents from a client's past that are likely affecting their present-day experience. Trauma is often one of the primary triggers and potential causes of addiction, and can stem from child sexual abuse, domestic violence, having a parent with a mental illness, losing one or both parents at a young age, teenage or adult sexual assault, or any number of other factors. The purpose of trauma therapy is to allow a patient to process trauma and move through and past it, with the help of trained and compassionate mental health professionals.

Amenities

  • home-setting iconResidential Setting
  • private iconPrivate Setting
  • car iconPrivate Transportation
  • acupuncture iconAcupuncture Room

Accreditations

The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) is a non-profit organization that specifically accredits rehab organizations. Founded in 1966, CARF's, mission is to help service providers like rehab facilities maintain high standards of care.

CARF Accreditation: Yes

The Joint Commission, formerly known as JCAHO, is a nonprofit organization that accredits rehab organizations and programs. Founded in 1951, the Joint Commision's mission is to improve the quality of patient care and demonstrating the quality of patient care.

Joint Commission Accreditation: Yes
Accreditation Number: 4580

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is a branch of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Established in 1992 by congress, SAMHSA's mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on American's communities.

SAMHSA Listed: Yes

Contact Information

Phone icon (570) 824-3521
Building icon

1111 East End Boulevard
Wilkes Barre, PA 18711

Fact checked and written by:
Peter Lee, PhD
Edited by:
Kerry Nenn, BSW

Reviews of Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center

3.7/5 (235 reviews)
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Reviews

Overall Experience
Date Submitted
Reviewer

Google Reviews

3.7 (235 reviews)
kathleen metcalf
2 weeks ago
5

I had an audiology appt at Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center. They are the nicest people to work with in all regards. The audiologist spent 2 hrs explaining my new hearing aids. She answered all my questions. I can not say enough how pleasant and helpful both the receptionist and the audiologist were with my appt.

Renee Robinson
3 weeks ago
1

Speaking strictly on my experience with the mental health dept. in Wilkes Barre. I had an apt at the Allentown site, arriving in an obvious mental crisis. No one was on site to speak with me so I communicated via 2 phone calls with the Wilkes Barre mental health couselors. Long story short they'll send me an antidepressant and call me in a few weeks to check on me. If you could of heard me, explaining in great detail, the incredible PTSD flare up I'm suffering thru, after it being under control for 22 yrs, and this antidepressant/few week follow call response was my lifeline.....The lack of any real meaningful help/ referrals left me hopeless. This hopelessness found me on the phone with the veterans crisis hotline that night because of the obvious lack of seriousness taken by the mental health provider I spoke with. Those people saved me that night. It's a shame that real veterans, in real crisis situations, even after asking for help, will fall thru the cracks still because of inadequate and ineffective help provided by an organization who prides itself on really taking care of their vets. Please pray for me thru this because I'm obviously not going to get help thru the VA. I am on my own. I called and canceled any further apps after that call because if I have to do it on my own anyways I don't need to keep apps with an agency who seemingly all say they care, but still me hung out to dry. I hope others get the real help they neec,

Tom McCarthy
1 month ago
5

My experience with Audiology and Orthopedics has been fantastic. Professional, friendly and caring are only three of the positive accolades they deserve. My recent colonoscopy was performed on-time with no hassle and the whole procedure could not have gone better. IMHO, this place is outstanding.

R C
1 month ago
1

This place is a joke, my primary care is on vacation and I waited for the covering Doctor who refused to see me after two hours, I asked for refills on medications I already had on my chart and a nurse literally blocked me from getting them and dont even bother with the myhealthevet portal, all I got was attitude and rudeness from a nurse. After 24 hours of no response I drove an hour and a half just to be denied to see a doctor two e by nursing staff, NURSES DO NOT HAVE THE AUTHORITY TO DENY CARE. Twice some LPN with less education than someone with and undergrad degree denied my doctors visit, three jours of driving and money for gas just to have some twit half my age deny me care for an injury on my chart, for fraying of my spinal cord, reported to the Ig and I am pursuing litigation, this place os a JOKEaddendum, having LPN's make medical decisions via myhealthevet is illegal and someone is going to pass from this world bc of this chicanery

Navy/Army SGT Veteran
1 month ago
4

Been going here for years. Never met a staff member who was rude or didn't answer my questions. Did have trouble connecting by phone.

Matthew Samson
2 months ago
1

keith porter
2 months ago
5

Walter Brewster
3 months ago
5

Professional, clean, informative

Ali Riso
3 months ago
5

I have been with the VA since 2012 and in several different states. I have to say I have the best Drs and Nurses since 2014. The pharmacy staff are very helpful if you need a script in a hurry. I don't think I'll ever leave here

August
3 months ago
5

Seems like I go here every week for more treatments

Susan Kennedy
4 months ago
1

Gerard Garcia
4 months ago
5

Great staff, and Doctors

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