HELM Recovery
Navigating Healing Together.
FAQ for Veteran Telehealth IOP
Clear Answers. Veteran-Focused. Provider-Aligned.
This FAQ gives veterans, families, and VA providers direct, easy-to-understand information about our program structure, telehealth format, referral process, and clinical expectations — all in one place.
PROGRAM QUESTIONS
What is HELM Recovery?
HELM Recovery is a 16-week, structured, telehealth Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for veterans with substance use disorders and co-occurring PTSD, anxiety, or depression.
Who is this program for?
California veterans who want:
A structured weekly routine
Skills they can use in real life
A program built by a veteran
A predictable, closed-cohort environment
Help with substance use and trauma-related symptoms
Do I have to share personal details in the group?
No. HELM is a skills-based program, not an open-processing group. You only share what you choose to share.
How long is the program?
16 weeks
3 sessions per week
3 hours per session
48 total sessions
How big is each group?
Cohorts have 10–12 veterans and remain closed after Week 1.
Who leads the groups?
Certified CADC facilitators under weekly supervision from an LMFT/LCSW/LPCC Clinical Supervisor.
Do sessions follow the same structure every time?
Yes. Every session uses the exact same script and flow to maintain clarity, safety, and stability.
TELEHEALTH & TECHNOLOGY
Do I need special equipment?
Just:
A phone, tablet, or computer with a camera
A private space
Stable internet
Do I have to be on camera?
Yes. Camera-on participation is required for safety, accountability, and VA compliance.
What if I live far from a VA location?
No problem — HELM is 100% telehealth statewide. You can join from anywhere in California.
CLINICAL QUESTIONS
Is this program trauma-informed?
Yes. We use grounding, stabilization, and Seeking Safety-based tools throughout the 16-week curriculum.
What if a crisis happens during group?
The facilitator will:
Pause the group
Move the veteran to a private breakout room
Notify the Clinical Supervisor
Supervisor handles all clinical decisions
The remaining group stays safe, stable, and focused.
Is this program good for veterans with PTSD?
Yes — especially those managing:
Flashbacks
Hyperarousal
Triggers
Anxiety
Emotional dysregulation
We teach real tools to manage these symptoms.
Do you offer detox or inpatient care?
No. We are an IOP only. Veterans needing detox or residential services will be redirected to their VA provider.
ATTENDANCE & PROGRAM FLOW
What if I miss a session?
We track attendance closely. Frequent absences may require clinical review.
Can I join late?
No — cohorts close after Week 1 to protect group stability.
Can I switch cohorts mid-program?
No. Staying with the same group is part of the structure.
REFERRALS & VA PROCESS
Do I need a VA referral to join?
Yes. All veterans must be referred through the VA Community Care Network (TriWest).
How do I get the referral?
Ask your VA provider for an authorization for:
CPT 90853 — Group Psychotherapy (Telehealth)
Program: HELM Recovery
Organizational NPI: 1164383352
How long does it take to start?
Once authorization is received, HELM contacts the veteran within 24–48 hours.
Can VA providers contact you directly?
Yes. Providers can reach our team for coordination or documentation needs.
BILLING & COST
Does the veteran pay out of pocket?
No. All care is covered through VA Community Care authorization.
Is this private insurance?
No. HELM operates exclusively through TriWest / VA Community Care.
CONTACT
If you have a question not listed here, we’re here to help.