Understanding the VA Disability Process: A Clinical Psychologist’s Perspective

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By Dr. Rebekah Harris-Creamer, Ph.D.

Health Psychologist & Behavioral Medicine
FarmUS Health Services – Independent Medical Opinions for Veterans

Serving Those Who Served

As a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 15 years of experience conducting Independent Medical Opinions for veterans, I’ve had the privilege of helping hundreds of service members navigate one of the most challenging and misunderstood aspects of post-service life: the VA disability claims process.

While every veteran’s story is unique, one truth remains consistent — clear, medically sound documentation is essential for establishing the connection between current mental health symptoms and military service.
This is the foundation of the work we do at FarmUS Health Services.

Why VA Disability Claims Are So Complex

The VA requires strong, objective evidence of service connection — proof that a diagnosed condition was caused or aggravated by military service. Too often, veterans are denied benefits not because their symptoms lack merit, but because the documentation submitted does not align with the VA’s specific evidentiary standards.

This challenge is even greater when evaluating mental health conditions such as:

  • PTSD

  • Major depression

  • Anxiety disorders

  • Trauma-related conditions

These conditions frequently go unrecognized or undocumented during service, making it crucial to have a clinician who understands VA terminology, disability rating criteria, and diagnostic requirements.

This is where a well-structured Nexus Letter or Independent Medical Opinion (IMO) becomes indispensable.

The Role of a Nexus Letter

A Nexus Letter is a formal medical opinion that explains why a veteran’s current diagnosis is “at least as likely as not” related to their military service — the VA’s legal threshold for service connection.

At FarmUS Health Services, our Nexus Letters are designed to be:

  • Clinically precise, referencing DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria

  • Evidence-based, supported by relevant medical and service records

  • Thoroughly reasoned, with clear clinical rationale

  • Aligned with VA regulations, terminology, and rating expectations

  • Defensible, should your claim be reviewed, challenged, or appealed

Our goal is to ensure each veteran receives documentation that is accurate, objective, and compelling.

The FarmUS Approach

We have built a streamlined, veteran-centered system that emphasizes clarity, transparency, and professionalism:

1. Secure Record Upload

Veterans upload medical and service documents through our HIPAA-compliant, encrypted portal — ensuring privacy and accuracy from the start.

2. One-on-One Telehealth Evaluation

A licensed clinical psychologist conducts a comprehensive telehealth assessment tailored to the specific needs of your claim.

3. Rapid Nexus Letter Delivery

Completed Nexus Letters are delivered within three business days, ready for use in a new claim, supplemental claim, or appeal.

We understand how critically important timely and accurate documentation is, and we take pride in getting it right the first time.

Moving Forward with Confidence

If you’ve experienced delays, denials, or incomplete evaluations, you’re not alone — and you deserve better. The right medical evidence can be the deciding factor in your case, ensuring your service story is heard and properly evaluated.

Whether you are just beginning your claim or preparing an appeal, FarmUS Health Services is here to support you with expert, evidence-based medical opinions you can trust.

Ready to Begin?

Visit FarmUSHealthServices.com or submit your information through our secure intake form to schedule your consultation.

Your service matters. Your story matters. We’re here to help.

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