COMPASS: A Comprehensive Approach to Supporting Veterans with Co-Occurring Disorders

Abstract

This comprehensive project identified homelessness's social problem—specifically, veterans experiencing homelessness with mental health and substance use challenges. Additionally, my professional and personal experiences as a Senior social worker in a homeless program at the VA Loma Linda Healthcare System are discussed and have shaped my awareness of the challenges faced by this marginalized population. The social problem is grounded in three theoretical principles: sociological - imagination, critical and conflict theory, and empowerment theory. Using community-based participatory research methods, I conducted interviews with stakeholders to help inform the innovation project while integrating faith-based practices when providing services to individuals will provide better service delivery to the community. A scoping review was done to review the literature on current interventions to assist veterans experiencing homelessness with co-occurring disorders. This writer piloted a screening tool to assess clients during the initial stages of engagement in a homelessness program. A mixed evaluation method was used to assess the project using surveys. Recommendations for future research and practice include more studies on practices for increasing social connectedness and more training components for students and professionals already in the field to discuss military culture and acclimation into society after homelessness.