Exploring the Motivators and Barriers Associated with the Utilization of University Counseling Services among Student Veterans: A Qualitative Study

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Published May 29, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.18103/mra.v13i5.6552

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Main Article Content

Wall W.
Fayetteville State University
Hubert A.
Fayetteville State University
Washington Z.
Blue Ridge Community College
Greenlee-Rasnake M.
Fayetteville State University
Malone E.
University of North Carolina – Charlotte
Malone E.
University of North Carolina – Charlotte

Abstract

Student Veterans experience higher than average rates of mental illness. Yet, student Veterans utilize counseling services on college campuses at lower rates when compared to the general student population. The purpose of this study was to obtain qualitative data regarding student Veterans’ motivators and barriers associated with seeking mental healthcare services and utilizing university counseling services. Data from the present study was collected from ten male student Veterans who participated in a two-hour focus group session. The focus group session was transcribed, and content analysis was conducted using the constant comparative method to identify major themes and subthemes of the session. Focus group themes related to identified motivators and barriers are presented and discussed. Unique themes included the tendency for student Veterans to report being reluctant to utilize counseling services due to a belief that they would be taking resources from others and a desire for a more directive counseling style. Stigma was also identified as a major barrier to care. Recommendations for tailoring university mental healthcare services to better serve student Veterans are presented and study limitations and recommendations for future research are discussed.

Keywords: Veteran mental health, university counseling services, healthcare utilization, prevention

Article Details

How to Cite
W., Wall et al. Exploring the Motivators and Barriers Associated with the Utilization of University Counseling Services among Student Veterans: A Qualitative Study. Medical Research Archives, [S.l.], v. 13, n. 5, may 2025. ISSN 2375-1924. Available at: <https://esmed.org/MRA/mra/article/view/6552>. Date accessed: 06 dec. 2025. doi: https://doi.org/10.18103/mra.v13i5.6552.
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Issue
Vol 13 No 5 (2025): Vol.13, Issue 5, May 2025
Section
Research Articles

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