The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at The Up Center 

About

Cohen Veterans Network (CVN) started in 2016 to bring mental health help to veterans and families. In 2019, CVN and The Up Center teamed up to open this clinic here in Virginia Beach. The clinic is part of South Hampton Roads’ oldest human services agency.

We offer personalized, confidential mental health care for post‑9/11 veterans, active‑duty service members, and their families. You’ll be seen quickly—sometimes the same day if it’s urgent. We treat issues like depression, anxiety, PTSD, adjustment, grief, anger, and family stress. We use proven therapies like CBT, EMDR, and case management. Confidentiality is always protected. Most insurances accepted. No insurance? You may still get care for free.

Contact Information

Address: 828 Healthy Way, Suite 105, Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Phone: 757-965-8686
Hours: Monday–Thursday 8:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; Wednesday–Thursday until 7:00 p.m.; Friday until 1:00 p.m.
Details: Free parking. Transportation and childcare are available on request. No cash payments accepted.

Emotional Wellness, Treatment, and Support

Our expert therapists help with a wide range of issues, like stress, sleep trouble, anger, and more. We offer evidence-based treatments: Cognitive Processing Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and couples therapy. We also offer case management—help getting resources like housing, job support, child care, education, legal aid, and more.

Take a Virtual Tour of the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at The Up Center!

Check out the what the Cohen Clinic at the Up Center has to offer, from the reception area, to clinical offices, group therapy, children’s therapy and the community room.

Our 2025 Impact

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service members & their families served

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military children supported

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reported clinical improvement

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible?

We make it a priority to see post-9/11 veterans and will assess all clients based on their specific needs. Our clinic makes every effort to see pre-9/11 veterans based on clinician availability. We can also connect you to other resources you may be eligible for to best support your needs.

I am a veteran. How do I know I am or a family member is eligible to receive mental health care?

We prioritize serving post-9/11 veterans, which we define as any person who has served in the United States Armed Services (including the National Guard and Reserves) after September 11, 2001, regardless of role while in uniform, discharge status or combat experience. We define family members as parents, siblings, spouses or partners, children, caretakers and others. Although we make a priority of serving post- 9/11 veterans whose period of service included Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and/or Operation New Dawn, we assess all veterans based on their specific needs and our ability to serve the veteran well.

How fast do I get care?

We strive to ensure the shortest possible wait time between first contact and first appointment. If you are in crisis, our clinic will make a first appointment available on the same day you contact us. If you are in crisis, please call the Cohen Clinic at The Up Center at 757-965-8686, the National Veterans Crisis Hotline: (800) 273-8255, or the National Women Veterans Hotline: (855) 829-6636.

What about privacy?

We follow HIPAA rules. Your info stays private unless the law says otherwise.

How much will it cost?

The Cohen Clinic at The Up Center is a not-for-profit philanthropic organization. We accept most major insurances and will work with clients on a case-by-case basis to ensure that any barriers to care are addressed. All funds collected from insurance go right back into providing care for clients to ensure sustainability and growth.

How long has the Cohen Clinic at The Up Center been providing mental health care to veterans, active-duty service members, and military families?

Since July 29, 2019, the Cohen Clinic at The Up Center has proudly stood alongside our veterans, active-duty service members, and military families—providing compassionate, high-quality mental health care and unwavering support to those who serve and sacrifice.

What is the Cohen Veterans Network’s relationship to the VA/DOD?

CVN has a complementary relationship with government agencies but receives no funding from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or the Department of Defense. Our clinic does not share confidential patient information with the VA unless required by law or with written consent from the client. We comply with federal guidelines set by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Real Voices

At The Up Center’s military clinic, our team isn’t just made up of mental health professionals — we are veterans, spouses, parents, and family members who understand th
At The Up Center’s military clinic, our team isn’t just made up of mental health professionals — we are veterans, spouses, parents, and family members who understand the unique challenges of military life.
When Damien first came to The Up Center’s clinic, it wasn’t entirely by choice. At the urging of a loved one, he decided to give therapy a try, though he wasn’t sure it
When Damien first came to The Up Center’s clinic, it wasn’t entirely by choice. At the urging of a loved one, he decided to give therapy a try, though he wasn’t sure it would help. Like many adults balancing work, relationships, and family, he had been quietly struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, and the constant pressure to hold everything together.
EEmotion Detectives was designed for adolescents struggling with anxiety, sadness, anger, fear, or depression. Led by compassionate clinicians, the program helped parti
EEmotion Detectives was designed for adolescents struggling with anxiety, sadness, anger, fear, or depression. Led by compassionate clinicians, the program helped participants explore their feelings, identify what triggers them, and learn healthy ways to cope. Each week, the young participants practiced tools to calm themselves, communicate more effectively, and build confidence in handling everyday stress.
When Chelsea, a 14-year-old girl, first came to The Up Center’s clinic, she was struggling to control her anger and had begun to harm herself when she felt overwhelmed.
When Chelsea, a 14-year-old girl, first came to The Up Center’s clinic, she was struggling to control her anger and had begun to harm herself when she felt overwhelmed. Her world felt out of control, and she didn’t know how to express what she was feeling.
When Melissa first came to The Up Center’s clinic, she was in crisis. She was struggling with severe mental health challenges, including suicidal thoughts and distressi
When Melissa first came to The Up Center’s clinic, she was in crisis. She was struggling with severe mental health challenges, including suicidal thoughts and distressing hallucinations. Life felt overwhelming—she was at risk of losing custody of her young son and unsure where to turn for help.
When Mr. and Mrs. Carter came to the Military Family Clinic at The Up Center, they were looking for marriage counseling and a chance to repair their relationship. After
When Mr. and Mrs. Carter came to the Military Family Clinic at The Up Center, they were looking for marriage counseling and a chance to repair their relationship. After months of living apart, both were struggling to reconnect and find the trust they had lost. From the moment they walked through the doors, the intake team welcomed them with compassion, respect, and understanding.

Meet Our Team

Meet Our Team

Tanetta Hassell, LCSW
Marina Falvo, LCSW
Tondra Sawyer
Charlene Cutting
Armirah Stephens
Jasmine Johnson
Jordan Fransee, MSW
Amy Antonelli, LPC, CSAC
Michkala DeForest, LPC, CSOTP
Julie Bologna
Ali Ramirez, LPC, LMHC
Shannon L. Trewartha, LPC, ATR-BC
Bill Brown
Yolanda Gill, LCSW, CSAC-S
Dayesha Lomax, MSW
Teozanae Spicer
Denisa Lutz
Clinic Director

As Clinic Director, I lead an interdisciplinary team dedicated to providing high-quality, evidence-based mental health care to military families. Before joining The Up Center, I had the opportunity to work in multiple clinical settings, which gave me a strong foundation in leadership and trauma-informed care. I hold a Master of Social Work degree and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).

What motivates me most about working at The Up Center is seeing the transformation in the lives of our clients and knowing the work we do directly supports military families. I’m especially proud of my leadership style and ability to foster a collaborative, compassionate team environment. Outside of work, I’m actually quite introverted despite being in a very people-centered role!

Lead Clinician

As Lead Clinician at the Cohen Military Family Clinic, I provide program oversight, staff supervision, and clinical services to support military families in need. I have worked in the field of mental health and social services for over a decade, specializing in trauma-informed care and evidence-based practices. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Old Dominion University and my Master of Social Work from Norfolk State University.

I chose the Cohen Clinic because of its commitment to serving military families with compassion and excellence. I’m especially proud to lead a highly skilled and dedicated team that makes a real difference in the lives of those who have served our country.

Administrative Coordinator

I am responsible for EMR management, new patient onboarding, and supporting administrative processes across departments. With a Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration and years of experience in medical office administration, I bring strong organizational and technical skills to my role. 
I enjoy serving, advocating, and helping our military families and staff. Outside of work, I love Disney and taking trips to Disney parks whenever I can. 

Practice Manager

As Practice Manager for the Cohen Clinic, I oversee clinic operations, staff support, and service delivery for military families. With experience in healthcare administration and behavioral health, I bring a strong focus on efficiency and quality care. I’m also a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, which allows me to bring lived experience and empathy into my work.

I was drawn to The Up Center because of its long history of supporting military families and its commitment to mental health care. I’m especially proud of creating a clinic environment where both staff and clients feel supported, respected, and empowered. Outside of work, I love theater, art, and traveling whenever I can.

Intake Coordinator

I assess incoming clients for clinical appropriateness and help connect them with the right services and providers. I am trained as a Marriage and Family Therapist, with experience supporting military families and individuals seeking care. 
I enjoy the look of relief our service members and families have when they realize help is available and accessible. One of my goals is to skydive in five different countries someday! 

Intake Coordinator II | Resident in Counseling

As Intake Coordinator II and a Resident in Counseling, I guide new clients as they begin services at The Up Center, ensuring they feel supported every step of the way. I bring training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which helps me meet clients where they are with evidence-based care.

I’m inspired by seeing clients grow in confidence as they build skills and achieve goals they once thought impossible. Watching people transform from a place of uncertainty to one of strength and resilience is the most rewarding part of my work.

As a Case Manager, I help clients navigate and access the resources they need to support their mental health and well-being. I completed my Master of Social Work and was a member of the Taylor-Crocker Honors Program. 
I love connecting people with resources that empower them and being part of a team committed to making a difference. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends. 

As a clinician at the Military Family Clinic, I provide mental health therapy for active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. My experience spans multiple settings, including in-home counseling, corrections, and outpatient therapy, which has given me a strong foundation in trauma-informed care and evidence-based practices.

What motivates me most is seeing the progress clients make as they work through challenges and begin to heal. I feel privileged to walk alongside them on their journey. Fun fact: I once lived in Montreal, Canada, for four years while completing graduate studies, an experience that deepened my appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives.

I provide specialized counseling and evidence-based interventions for service members, veterans, and their families. My training includes working extensively with youth and families impacted by trauma and mental health challenges. 
I enjoy supporting my community by offering compassionate care to those who serve and their loved ones. Outside of work, I love long-distance running and traveling to new places.

Resident in Counseling & CVN Fellow

As a Resident in Counseling and CVN Fellow at the Cohen Military Family Clinic, I provide therapy services and support to military families and veterans. My clinical training includes trauma-informed care and evidence-based practices, helping clients navigate the unique challenges of military life.

I’m motivated by the resilience I see in the families I work with and the opportunity to support them through meaningful, client-centered care. I’m proud to be part of a team dedicated to serving those who have served our country.

As a therapist, I am extremely passionate about serving veterans, active-duty service members, and their families, using a range of evidence-based approaches. I hold licensure as both a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), drawing on diverse clinical experience. 
I am motivated by those I serve—seeing their growth and healing keeps me inspired. Outside of work, I’m passionate about video games, music, and staying physically active.

I provide outpatient counseling to veterans, active-duty service members, and their families, using a combination of clinical expertise and creative arts therapy. I hold licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and board certification as an Art Therapist (ATR-BC). 
I appreciate working at an agency that actively supports the community, creating a ripple effect of positive change. Outside of work, I love spending time outdoors where I feel re-energized and inspired.

Clinician

I provide short-term therapy services tailored to the needs of veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. With extensive experience working with military and civilian populations, I specialize in solution-focused and evidence-based interventions. 
I’m motivated by the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives and see positive changes happen in a short amount of time. Outside of work, I was once an avid collector of many unique items and still enjoy finding rare pieces. 

I provide outpatient therapy for veterans, service members, and their families, focusing on evidence-based approaches to support mental health and well-being. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor-Supervisor with extensive experience in clinical practice. 
I enjoy working with an agency that’s attentive to the needs of our community and clients. I’m grateful to witness the growth and resilience of the individuals I serve. Outside of work, I enjoy reading.

Clinician, Supervisee in Social Work

I am a clinician who fosters a therapeutic environment for clients, helping them develop coping skills and supporting their mental health goals. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Social Work and a Master of Social Work, bringing strong academic training to my clinical work. 
I enjoy witnessing and supporting clients as they gain confidence and independence throughout their therapeutic journey. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and traveling.

Front Desk Receptionist, Admin Assistant

My role at the Military Family Clinic includes greeting visitors, managing appointments, and providing excellent customer service for clients and staff. I have over 10 years of customer service experience across multiple areas. 
I’m motivated to help others and love the smile on someone’s face when things go right for them. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking and aspire to be a culinary chef. 

Front Desk Receptionist

I work as the front desk receptionist, greeting clients and supporting staff to help the clinic run smoothly. I bring years of experience providing warm and professional customer service in many settings. 
I love to help people and enjoy being the friendly face clients see when they first arrive. Outside of work, I’m an avid reader and love to crochet. 

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