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Solara Mental Health Brandmark
316 Central Ave, Great Falls, MT 59401
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316 Central Ave, Great Falls, MT
(406) 645-5757

VA Community Care Network (CCN)

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Empowering Great Falls Veterans with Outpatient Healthcare Choice

The Department of Veterans Affairs is committed to ensuring you have timely access to high-quality healthcare, including through the Community Care Network (CCN) for outpatient needs.

Solara Mental Health in Great Falls is proud to be a key VA CCN partner, providing specialized outpatient mental healthcare tailored to the needs of Veterans. Our outpatient clinic offers a military-community-exclusive setting with a deep understanding of military culture and service-related stressors, focusing on your journey to lasting recovery and an improved quality of life.

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The Solara Great Falls Advantage: Your CCN Partner

Choosing Solara Great Falls for your VA CCN outpatient care gives you access to a military-exclusive setting where Veteran peer support thrives. Our integrated outpatient program unites evidence-based psychotherapies with holistic treatments, all delivered through universal trauma-informed care by a team with deep military cultural expertise. We are your dedicated outpatient solution in Great Falls.

Therapist and patient engaged in conversation.Woman with glasses speaking on the phone at a desk while reviewing documentsSmiling military service member on the phone in a home office, holding documents
Call to Verify VA Coverage
Have a Referral? Let’s Talk Next Steps

If you’ve already started the referral process, we’ll help you move forward without delays. Our care team will walk you through timelines, approvals, and treatment access.

Call to Discuss Your VA CNN Referral

Understanding Benefits

The VA MISSION Act of 2018 created the VA Community Care Network (CCN) to give Veterans more choice and control over their healthcare, especially for outpatient services. The goal is to ensure you receive the care you need, when and where you need it, whether at a VA facility or through a trusted community provider like Solara Mental Health's outpatient clinic
CCN is organized into six regions across the United States. Montana, including Great Falls, is located in Region 4. TriWest Healthcare Alliance is the VA's contracted partner (Third Party Administrator or TPA) for managing CCN Region 4.
This means that if the VA determines you need outpatient mental health services that are best provided in the community, they can refer you to Solara Mental Health in Great Falls through TriWest for these specific outpatient programs.

Are You Eligible? The Six CCN Eligibility Criteria Explained for Outpatient Mental Health in Great Falls

The VA must determine that you are eligible to receive outpatient care in the community. Here are the six main criteria, explained in the context of accessing outpatient mental health care at Solara Great Falls:

Wait-Time Standards
If the VA cannot schedule an appointment for you for the specific outpatient mental health services you need (e.g., therapy, PHP, IOP) within VA's published wait-time goals (typically 20 days for mental health or primary care, 28 days for specialty care).
Drive-Time Standards
If you would have to travel an average of 30 minutes or more to a VA facility offering primary mental health care or non-institutional extended care, OR 60 minutes or more to a VA facility offering the specific specialty outpatient mental health care you need (like PHP, IOP, or specialized trauma therapy available at Solara Great Falls outpatient clinic). The drive time to Solara Great Falls may be significantly less.
Quality Standards
When VA care does not meet its quality standards, or if a specific VA facility cannot provide the outpatient care or services due to an environmental hazard or other quality issue. Solara Mental Health is an approved CCN provider, meeting VA quality standards for outpatient care.
Best Medical Interest of the Veteran
If your VA healthcare provider, in consultation with you, determines that receiving specific outpatient mental health care from a community provider like Solara Great Falls is in your best medical interest. This could be due to factors like needing a specialized outpatient program Solara offers (e.g., PHP, IOP), continuity of care, or other unique circumstances.
Service Not Available at VA
If the specific type or intensity of outpatient mental health service you require (e.g., Partial Hospitalization Program, Intensive Outpatient Program, specific evidence-based trauma therapies like EMDR or Somatic Experiencing, specialized outpatient tracks for MST or Moral Injury offered at Solara Great Falls) is not offered at your local VA medical facility.
Grandfathered from Previous Choice Program
If you were eligible under the "40-mile rule" of the former Veterans Choice Program, you may continue to be eligible for community care, including outpatient services.

It's important to discuss your outpatient needs with your VA provider, as they will make the final determination of eligibility and issue any necessary referrals.

Call to Understand Your CCN Benefits for Outpatient Care Today

Not sure if you qualify for VA Community Care? Our team can help you verify your eligibility and walk you through next steps—quickly and confidentially.

Check Your VA Eligibility

What to Expect at Your First VA CCN Outpatient Visit at Solara Great Falls

Embarking on your outpatient mental health journey with Solara Great Falls through VA CCN begins with a welcoming and understanding first visit. At our Great Falls outpatient clinic, you'll have a confidential consultation with a therapist skilled in Veteran care. We will discuss your specific needs and goals for outpatient treatment, explain our outpatient program options (PHP, IOP, individual/group therapy), and work with you to create a personalized care plan. Our aim is to ensure you feel respected, informed, and hopeful about the path ahead.

VA CCN Benefit Services

Solara’s CCN-Covered Outpatient Services & Specialized Tracks in Great Falls

As a VA CCN-approved provider in Great Falls, Solara Mental Health offers a comprehensive range of outpatient services designed for Veterans. Our care is delivered through a military-community-exclusive outpatient model, integrating evidence-based practices with holistic therapies, and is always trauma-informed. Our focus is on empowering you with skills and insights for lasting positive change.

Partial Hospitalization (PHP)
An intensive, structured outpatient day program providing 5-6 hours of therapy and support, 5 days a week. Ideal for Veterans needing more than traditional outpatient care but not requiring 24/7 residential services.
Intensive Outpatient (IOP)
A step-down from PHP or direct entry for Veterans needing significant outpatient support while managing daily life. Typically 3-4 hours of programming, 3-5 days per week.
Individual & Group Psychotherapy
Regular one-on-one therapy sessions and various group therapy formats (process, psychoeducational, skills-based) leveraging peer support for shared healing within an outpatient framework.
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Telehealth
Secure, remote access to individual therapy and potentially group sessions for Veterans across Montana, enhancing accessibility to our outpatient care.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
An on-site, FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment primarily for Major Depressive Disorder, available at our Great Falls outpatient clinic, particularly for those who haven't found relief with other treatments.

Specialized Outpatient Tracks for Veterans at Solara Great Falls

PTSD (Combat/Non-Combat/MST)
Moral Injury Recovery
Depression & Anxiety
Co-occurring Disorders, Adjustment to Civilian Life
Chronic Pain (psychological aspects)
Women Veterans Program, and LGBTQ+ Veteran Affirming Care

How to Use VA CCN at Solara Great Falls for Outpatient Care: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a detailed timeline for accessing outpatient care at Solara Mental Health in Great Falls through VA CCN:

1
Consult Your VA Provider
Schedule an appointment with your VA primary care or mental health provider.
Discuss your mental health needs, symptoms, and your interest in receiving outpatient care (e.g., PHP, IOP, therapy) at Solara Mental Health in Great Falls. Be specific about why you think Solara's outpatient clinic might be a good fit (e.g., specialized programs, focus on service-related stressors, location).
2
VA Determines Eligibility & Refers You to CCN for Outpatient Care
Your VA provider will assess your needs and determine if you meet one of the six eligibility criteria for community outpatient care.
If you are eligible, the VA will submit a formal referral (Request for Service - RFS) to TriWest, the CCN administrator for Region 4.
3
TriWest Authorizes Outpatient Care at Solara Great Falls
TriWest reviews the referral from the VA.
If approved, TriWest issues an authorization for specific outpatient services, number of visits, and duration of care at Solara Mental Health in Great Falls. They will notify both you and Solara.
4
Solara Great Falls Contacts You for Outpatient Intake & Scheduling
Once Solara Mental Health's Great Falls outpatient clinic receives the official authorization from TriWest, our intake team will contact you.
We will complete an initial outpatient intake assessment over the phone and schedule your first appointment. We strive for same- or next-day access when possible once authorization is received.
5
Begin Outpatient Treatment at Solara Great Falls
Attend your scheduled appointments at our Great Falls outpatient clinic (316 Central Avenue).
You will work with our team to develop a personalized outpatient treatment plan focused on your recovery and well-being.

Understanding Costs, Billing & Travel with VA CCN for Outpatient Care

Call to Verify VA Coverage
No Copay for Approved Outpatient Care
One of the most significant benefits of using VA CCN for authorized outpatient care at an in-network provider like Solara Mental Health is that Veterans typically have no out-of-pocket costs, copayments, or deductibles for the approved outpatient services. The VA pays Solara directly.
Travel Reimbursement
The VA offers Beneficiary Travel benefits to help eligible Veterans with the cost of travel to and from VA-authorized appointments, including some CCN outpatient appointments. Check with the VA regarding your eligibility for mileage reimbursement or other travel support.
Solara Great Falls' Local Transportation Support
To further ease access, Solara Mental Health in Great Falls provides free local transportation options for clients attending our outpatient programs at the clinic.
Over 20 Years of Service

Why Choose Solara

Deep Understanding of Veterans
Our team is culturally competent in military and Veteran experiences. We provide a military-community-exclusive environment for outpatient care.
Proven Outpatient Programs
We offer effective, evidence-based, and holistic outpatient care (PHP, IOP, individual/group therapy, TMS) tailored to your specific needs and recovery goals, focusing on practical skills for life.
Easy Access in Great Falls for Outpatient Services
Located centrally at 316 Central Avenue, we aim for same- or next-day access to our Great Falls outpatient clinic once your VA CCN authorization is received.
Seamless Coordination with VA
We are committed to working closely with your local VA providers in Great Falls to ensure smooth referrals, integrated outpatient care, and continuity of support.
Focus on Your Outpatient Recovery Goals
Our outpatient treatment is personalized. We partner with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your unique challenges and empowers you to achieve lasting recovery, enhanced emotional regulation, and improved quality of life.
Call to Understand Your CCN Benefits for Outpatient Care Today

Not sure if you qualify for VA Community Care? Our team can help you verify your eligibility and walk you through next steps—quickly and confidentially.

Check Your VA Eligibility

Success Stories: Veterans Thriving with Solara & CCN Outpatient Care

Solara Mental Health is committed to helping Veterans achieve meaningful and sustainable improvements in their mental health and well-being through our dedicated outpatient programs. Our outcome data demonstrates the effectiveness of our programs.

Call to Verify VA Coverage

Thanks to the VA CCN program and Solara in Great Falls, I was able to access specialized outpatient PTSD treatment that wasn't available locally through the VA. The outpatient team truly understood my military background and helped me develop coping skills that have made a huge difference in my life and for my family.

David M.
U.S. Army Veteran

Solara gave me the support I didn’t know I needed. I was hesitant about outpatient care at first, but their team made me feel seen, heard, and respected. Through the VA CCN, I got access fast—and the therapy truly helped me manage my depression and reconnect with my loved ones.

James R.
U.S. Navy Veteran

I’ve been to a few programs, but this was the first one that felt tailored to me. The staff at Solara understood my trauma and didn’t rush the process. Thanks to the outpatient team and VA Community Care, I now feel stable, focused, and more in control of my recovery.

Monica T.
U.S. Marine Corps Veteran

Key Acronyms & Terms

CCN: Community Care Network
RFS: Request for Service (the formal VA referral for care)
TPA: Third-Party Administrator (like TriWest, who manages the CCN in Region 4)
PHP: Partial Hospitalization Program (an intensive outpatient level of care)
IOP: Intensive Outpatient Program (a structured outpatient level of care)
MH: Mental Health
SUD: Substance Use Disorder
PTSD: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
MST: Military Sexual Trauma

Frequently Asked Questions

CCN replaced the Choice Program and aims to be more efficient and provider-friendly for outpatient services, with six regional networks and new eligibility criteria designed to improve access to community care.

When discussing community care options with your VA provider, clearly state your preference to receive outpatient care at Solara Mental Health in Great Falls and why (e.g., specific outpatient programs, location). If you meet eligibility criteria, the VA can refer you to an specific eligible provider.

You have the right to advocate for your healthcare needs. Politely discuss the CCN eligibility criteria (wait times, drive times, best medical interest, service not available for outpatient care) with your VA provider and explain why you believe community outpatient care at Solara Great Falls would benefit you. You can also contact a VA Patient Advocate.

Authorizations specify the approved outpatient services, number of visits, and duration (e.g., 3 months, 6 months, up to 1 year). If more outpatient care is needed, Solara will work with the VA/TriWest to request re-authorization.

Yes, VA CCN can cover telehealth services for outpatient care when clinically appropriate and authorized. Solara Great Falls offers telehealth, which is an excellent option for expanding access to Veterans across Montana for our outpatient programs.

Your VA healthcare team (usually your VA PCP) continues to manage your overall healthcare. Solara Mental Health will focus on your authorized outpatient mental health treatment and will coordinate with your VA providers with your permission to ensure your care is integrated.

You have the right to be treated with respect, to have your privacy protected, to receive high-quality outpatient care that meets VA standards, to understand your treatment options, and to have your concerns addressed. You can learn more on the VA's website or by speaking with a Patient Advocate.

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Get Started with VA Community Care at Solara Great Falls for Outpatient Services

Take control of your mental wellness journey. Solara Mental Health in Great Falls is here to support your outpatient care needs.

Call to Speak to a Solara CCN Specialist
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