Each year, thousands of veterans return home from service with unseen scars - mental health challenges that often go untreated due to stigma, lack of access, or unawareness. From PTSD and substance use to suicidal ideation, the list of concerns veterans face is extensive and complex. In response to this urgent need, the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) launched the Veterans Mental Health (VMH) Grant Program, a transformative funding initiative supporting the mental health of veterans, their dependents, and surviving spouses across the state.
What Is the Veterans Mental Health Grant Program?
The VMH Grant Program is part of the Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA) administered by TVC. It supports nonprofit and local organizations that deliver direct, evidence-based mental health services to Texas veterans and their families. With three service categories, the program creates a flexible, culturally competent framework for healing and reintegration.
A Three-Tiered Approach to Mental Health
- Clinical Counseling Services
- Non-Clinical Mental Health Services
- Service Dog Program (Pilot)
Each category is tailored to meet veterans’ unique needs at different stages of recovery.
Clinical Counseling Services
At the core of the VMH Grant is clinical care provided by licensed mental health professionals using validated, trauma-informed therapies.
Evidence-Based Mental Health Treatment
All clinical services must use approved Evidence-Based Practices (EBPs), including:
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
- Prolonged Exposure (PE)
- Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
- Motivational Interviewing
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
These approaches address a range of mental health concerns:
- PTSD and trauma-related disorders
- Anxiety and mood disorders
- Suicidal ideation and self-harm
- Substance use disorders
- Adjustment and identity issues
- Marriage and family distress
Outcome-Driven Accountability
Organizations must administer standardized measures like PHQ-9 (depression) and GAD-7 (anxiety) before and after treatment. Results are reported quarterly to ensure transparency and track meaningful progress.
Non-Clinical Mental Health Services
Recognizing that not all healing happens in clinical settings, the VMH Grant also supports non-clinical programs focused on wellness, prevention, and peer support.
Culturally Competent and Peer-Driven Services
Eligible non-clinical services may include:
- Peer-to-peer counseling
- Success coaching
- Family strengthening workshops
- Marriage retreats
- Adventure or recreation-based therapy
Providers must be Certified Peer Support Specialists, Licensed Mental Health Professionals, or Credentialed Pastoral Counselors. All must either be veterans or have completed Military Cultural Competency (MCC) training to ensure deep understanding of veterans’ lived experiences.
Accredited Canine Companions
Only nonprofit organizations accredited by Assistance Dogs International (ADI) are eligible to participate. These organizations must:
- Employ professional trainers
- Provide fully trained service dogs at no cost
- Offer follow-up and support
- Ensure ADA-compliant placement
- Replace dogs that become unfit within four years
This program provides far more than a companion—it offers continuity of care and a powerful healing bond.
Who Is Eligible to Apply for a VMH Grant?
TVC awards grants to a range of Texas-based service providers, including:
- Nonprofit organizations
- Local government entities
- Certain education institutions
Additional Requirements
- Texas licensure or credentialing for clinical staff
- Demonstrated experience delivering EBP care
- MCC training or veteran status for key staff
- ADI accreditation for service dog providers
- Clear service delivery model and outcome measurement strategy
The application process is managed through the TVC Grant Portal at.
Here’s an overview of the key steps:
1. Review Eligibility & Guidelines
Applicants must carefully review the Veterans Mental Health Appendix and all associated Requests for Applications (RFAs), including funding limits, allowable services, and compliance expectations.
2. Register in the Grant Portal
New applicants must register their organization and complete profile verification before submitting materials.
3. Submit a Detailed Proposal
A strong proposal should include:
- Description of services to be provided
- EBP modalities used (if applicable)
- Staffing, licensure, and organizational capacity
- Budget and intended use of funds
- Outcome tracking and measurement strategies
4. Upload Required Credentials
Applicants must provide:
- Proof of licensure for clinical staff
- MCC training documentation for peer support providers
5. Commit to Quarterly Reporting
Grantees must submit outcome data each quarter in alignment with TVC guidelines.
For technical assistance or questions, you can visit their Veterans Mental Health program page.
The Larger Impact of the Veterans Mental Health Grant Program
Behind every funded project is a veteran whose life has changed. Whether it’s regaining control over PTSD symptoms or rebuilding relationships through peer-led coaching, this program helps Texas veterans move from survival to sustained healing.
Building Resilience, One Veteran at a Time
The Texas Veterans Commission’s Mental Health Grant Program exemplifies the power of state funding to fuel transformative care. By partnering with experienced, culturally competent providers, the program supports not just treatment—but dignity, belonging, and lifelong resilience.
To explore grant opportunities or become a TVC grant partner, visit their grants page.
