Security Clearances and Counseling

[Solstice]

I know that some are afraid that going for counseling will result in loss or prevention of gaining a security clearance. I deal with security clearances so I wanted to share with you that that is not always the case. I say always because obviously if someone has to be placed on heavy medications, they are a danger to themselves or others or they are diagnosed with a serious mental health issue, there are grounds for suspension but always always always, care of mental health is the priority. If that ends up being the case, suspensions can be lifted once the service member is fit for duty.

The SF-86 has been modified (as has the wording in EQIP - - the online method of applying for a clearance) to read:

In the last 7 years, have you consulted with a health care professional regarding an emotional or mental health condition or were you hospitalized for such a condition. Answer NO if the counseling was for any of the following reasons and NOT court-ordered:
- strictly marital, family, grief not related to violence by you; or
- strictly related to adjustments from service in a military combat environment.

A letter issued by the Office of the Secretary of Defense discussed that "The Department considers it a mark of strength and maturity to seek appropriate heath care, whenever required. This is especially important for DoD, whose members are routinely exposed to traumatic events with psychological and physical impact beyond those encountered in other environments."

"Seeking professional care for these mental health issues should not be perceived to jeopardize an individual's security clearance. On the contrary, failure to seek care actually increases the likelihood that psychological distress could escalate to a more serious mental condition, which could preclude an individual from performing sensitive duties."

"Thus, we encourage you to seek care when necessary, knowing that getting professional assistance as needed is the best way to sustain one's ability to perform well. A grateful Nation entrusts you with its safety and wellbeing, and counts on you to maintain your mental and physical health."

I can't tell you how many times I get calls about this. People are afraid to go get help for whatever they need out of fear of losing their clearance. You and your health are way more important than your clearance.

If anyone has any questions, please feel free to pm me.

[cleigh08]

Thanks, OP! This is great to know! I work in mental health and routinely interact with guys who think that going to counseling will 'ruin their careers, etc.' (BTW, your siggy is amazing! I love your pictures!)

[Solstice]

No problem. We received guidance from the Army to put this out to the troops to ensure they understood. We want you to get help and it's ok to do so. Many years ago (when I first came in) there was a very negative stigma to getting help. That is NO longer the case.

Thanks for the compliment I'm lucky that he's such a good photography subject.

[Solstice]

Here is a link to the actual letter I was quoting, for those of you with SO's that don't believe or are using their clearance as an excuse to NOT get marriage or readjustment counseling:

http://www.nmfa.org/site/DocServer/Q...df?docID=13001

[Germanchick]

Thanks for the info!