MIRECC / CoE
VISN 22 Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health – CESAMH
About CESAMH
The Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health (CESAMH), located within the VA San Diego Healthcare System, addresses the needs of Veterans with specialized and coordinated clinical, research, and educational efforts. The VA CESAMH team brings expertise in all of these areas to collaboratively address issues related to PTSD and TBI.
Vision, Mission, and Goals
VISION:
CESAMH develops and evaluates innovative treatments for Veterans affected by traumatic events and brain injuries. We support recovery for the whole Veteran, including quality of life, relationships, employment, and mind/body connection.
MISSION:
CESAMH develops, evaluates and disseminates assessments and interventions for Veterans with PTSD, TBI and common comorbid conditions.
GOALS:
- CONDUCT basic research into the neural mechanisms of trauma-related behavioral problems in order to develop and test novel preventive and treatment targets and strategies.
- UNDERSTAND and quantify the neurobiological and psychophysiological mechanisms of symptom change and indicators of treatment response for trauma-related conditions.
- EXAMINE the acceptability, appropriateness and effectiveness of interventions for PTSD, TBI and common comorbidities.
- PROVIDE education and training to multiple stakeholders.
Research Highlight
Complementary and Integrative Health Practices Show Promise for Veterans with PTSD
Complementary and Integrative Health (CIH) includes non-traditional practices like meditation, yoga, acupuncture, and supplements to support conventional PTSD treatments. Many Veterans avoid or do not benefit fully from traditional PTSD care, highlighting the need for alternative approaches. Studies show promising results for CIH, particularly mindfulness-based practices, acupuncture, and movement-based therapies, but evidence remains mixed.
Challenges include varying methodologies and inconsistent replication. CIH may be best used alongside traditional treatments, in stepped care, or integrative models. While Veterans express interest in CIH, further research is needed to establish efficacy, optimize implementation, and integrate these approaches into clinical care.
Participate in Research
Participate in Research
This section is designed to connect potential volunteers to recruiting open research studies. If you find a study that you’d like to participate in, you can contact the study team with questions or to volunteer. Join us to improve the health of others!
Click here to view research studies that are now enrolling at VA San Diego!
Site Map
Contact Information
CESAMH
VASDHS
3350 La Jolla Village Dr
San Diego, CA 92161
