Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) Canberra

We are pleased to announce that Michele Chaseling are now officially registered providers with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA). We warmly welcome DVA clients and are proud to offer compassionate, trauma-informed support to veterans and their families.

If you hold a DVA Gold or White Health Card, your appointment may be fully covered by DVA upon referral from your GP or treating medical specialist.

How We Can Support You

As registered DVA social workers, we can assist with a wide range of concerns, particularly those related to stressful life events such as grief, relationship breakdown, adjustment after military service, and more. Services include but are not limited to:

• General counselling and case management
• Access to community and veteran-specific services
• Advocacy and referrals
• Discharge and transition planning
• Employment and vocational counselling
• Housing and accommodation assistance
• Family therapy with a focus on veteran wellbeing
• Education and self-help resources.

Whether you’re navigating challenges with mental health, relationships, housing, or transitioning to civilian life, our aim is to support you with care, dignity, and respect.

Support for Families of Veterans

Please note that family members are eligible for DVA-funded social work services only if they also hold a DVA Gold or White Card. However, families seeking support can access the Open Arms – Veterans and Families Counselling service, a free and confidential program for veterans, peacekeepers, and their families.

Open Arms offers:

• Individual, couple, and family counselling
• Crisis support via Veterans Line (1800 011 046)
• Case management services
• Group and psycho-educational programs for mental health
• Transition and lifestyle support workshops
• Suicide prevention initiatives (Operation Life)
• Alcohol reduction and lifestyle guidance (Changing the Mix)
• A wide range of self-help resources

You do not need a DVA card to access Open Arms services. Call 1800 011 046 or visit www.openarms.gov.au for more information.

More Resources for Veterans

We also encourage you to explore the following helpful platforms:

• At Ease – www.at-ease.dva.gov.au: Tools and information to support mental health awareness and action
• The Right Mix – www.therightmix.gov.au: Supports healthy choices around alcohol use and lifestyle.

If you or someone you know is a DVA client and could benefit from experienced, empathetic support—we’re here to help. Please contact us to book an appointment or to find out more about our services: Contact Us – Compass Counselling.

Looking forward to working with you on your journey.