ptsd Vet Center first appointment today (PTSD) now what?

[fiasco2g]

Had my first appointment with the vet center counselor today and he says I have PTSD. He said I would need to see the VA mental health doctors for a diagnosis for a claim. Do I need to setup an appointment for a C&P exam or do they have a regular PTSD screening? I have filed an intent to file for my other issues in January 2016 so I only have until January to get my diagnosis and submit my claim.

I will be seeing the vet center counselor for treatment so should I setup a va appointment or wait for a C&P claim exam after submitting my fully developed claim? Thanks.

[fiasco2g]

How many appointments at a minimum should I attend before filing for my vet records for my claim? I have only been to two so far but like most vets would like to get the ball rolling on the claim since they are usually slow to process. Thanks again for the advice.

[Gastone]

HIT the PTSD FDC E-BEN SEND BUTTON, NOW!

You either DO or DON"T have PTSD, right. Some MH treatment or no MH treatment, really doesn't matter to the VA PTSD C & P Psychiatrist or Psychologist PhD. This is a DSM V C & P Forensic Exam to determine if you actually have PTSD and to what extent you may or may not be over-reporting your symptoms, as of that day. The C & P Dr's opinion will trump all other MH Clinicians DX's and be the determining factor for the Rater's Decision. The C & P Dr's opinions as to the severity of your symptoms and their affect on Social & employment issues, will rule the day.

I trust by now, you have reviewed the VA PTSD DBQ and the 38 CFR 4 for PTSD Ratings. What SC %, do you think you qualify for?

Back in 2010 ,VA was using DSM IV. After reviewing my C & P DBQ, I thought I had a lock on 30% with a possible 50, ended up with a 70%.

Just be yourself, no better, no worse. At the end of the C & P, ask the Dr what his determination is.

Semper Fi

[fiasco2g]

50% or 70% from my symptoms. No SI so that may keep me from the 70%.