Knowing that someone you trust has your back is a pretty big deal.

When entering the civilian world, many veterans are struck by the relative lack of camaraderie, structure, goals, and responsibility. It’s not unusual to end up feeling isolated and alone as a result.

That’s why for 25 years, our research backed programs have been helping CAF and RCMP men and women, actively serving or retired, to overcome difficulties commonly faced when transitioning out of service. Our programs are available in English and French across Canada and are facilitated by psychologists & counsellors who have received specialized training from us in military issues.

Veterans Transition Program
The Veteran Transition Program consists of two distinct courses:
Transition Skills Course (Level 1) & Therapeutic Enactment Course (Level 2)

Level 1: Transition Skills Course (TSC)

This 5-day, in-person, retreat-based workshop aims to empower veterans while normalizing their transition journey through shared experiences with peers. The TSC focuses on skills related to communication, personal development, self-maintenance, future planning, and social engagement.

Level 2: Therapeutic Enactment Course (TEC)

This 5-day in-person, retreat-based workshop is an intensive therapy that integrates cognitive, emotional, and behavioural processes to heal traumatic memories. TEC is designed to help individuals restore their beliefs and values, repair their sense of self, and regain their ability to trust in others. Our clinicians carefully manage the pace and level of intensity of each TEC for all veterans.

Prerequisite: Completed Transition Skills Course (Level 1)

Requirements

Any Canadian Forces or RCMP Veteran can attend our programs, regardless of trade, branch, gender, or where they were stationed. For more info on RCMP attendance, click here.

Duration

Participants must be able to commit to the full duration of their course and are asked to refrain from alcohol and non-prescription narcotics usage during the duration of the program.

No Fees

All fees (inc. travel, room and board) are covered by donations from the Canadian public. We can also submit claims on behalf of VAC clients to have their expenses covered by Veterans Affairs.

Veterans Transition Program offers

Social Engagement

Our courses are delivered by specially trained psychologists and counsellors, include direct peer support from veteran peer supporters who have graduated from previous programs, and focus on building supportive connection between participants.

Communication

The directness of military language often doesn’t translate well to the civilian world, whether at home or at work. We cover how to bridge this gap in communication: building the skills to improve the relationships important to you and to be understood the way that you want to be.

Self-Maintenance

The effects of high-pressure work environments and operational stress can impact our lives long after leaving the service, sometimes to the extent that life can’t be enjoyed or lived the way we want. Our courses explains why this occurs and how to drop these lingering effects and increase resiliency. By the end you’ll leave knowing how to access resources to continue improving, whether those are peer or professional.

Personal Development

Transitioning out of military service can involve shifts in self-identity and career path uncertainty. Our courses provide the skills necessary to better recognize and work with the thoughts, emotions, and deeper values that inform and motivate growth and development.

Future Planning

Many aspects of ‘getting out’ can pose challenges you weren’t expecting: your differences in responsibility, day-to-day routine, financial situation to name a few. Over the course of the program we will explore in depth what made your service rewarding, and build concrete plans to find that personal meaning again.

“I regained so much insight from attending this course by sharing some of the most private parts of my life, but also listening to others and seeing how no matter what we are going through, inside we all have the same emotions and they affect us in the same way.”

– Ivan W.

“After taking the VTP, I feel less alone. I’m more capable of going to meetings or for groceries anytime, instead of only very early in the morning or very late at night. I continue my daily routine always keeping in mind the group’s energy at VTP and what we shared there together. Now I can move forward with my head held high, one step at a time.”

– Johanne B.

“Before I got help from VTN, I was afraid all the time at work despite having a gun and body armour. Now, I no longer live my life in fear.”

– Ryan M.

What to Expect

You're connected to the Program Coordinator for your province

Together you review the course details and have your questions answered.

You take part in an intake interview with a VTN Clinician

Together you review your goals and figure out if the program would be a good fit for you.

You work with your Program Coordinator to get ready for attendance

Your Program Coordinator will assist with travel plans and booking. Course materials are provided on site. 

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