Catherine Oconnell

Clinical Psychologist, Veteran Mental Health Specialist

Ph.D. Clinical Psychology, Licensed Psychologist (CA), Certified Trauma Professional

15+ years experience

Catherine Oconnell is a leading Clinical Psychologist specializing in veteran mental health with 15 years of experience dedicated to supporting those who have served. Holding a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley, she has a profound understanding of the unique challenges faced by military personnel and their families. As the former Director of Mental Health Services at ValorNet Support and a senior consultant for the National Veteran's Outreach Center, she developed and implemented innovative trauma-informed care programs for returning service members. Her professional philosophy centers on empowering veterans through evidence-based therapies, fostering resilience, and building strong community support networks. Her expertise lies particularly in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and moral injury recovery, advocating for holistic approaches to healing. Catherine is the acclaimed author of "Echoes of Battle, Paths to Peace: A Veteran's Guide to Healing," a foundational text in the field. Readers can expect articles from Catherine that are deeply empathetic, scientifically grounded, and offer practical, actionable strategies for mental wellness and recovery.

Articles by Catherine Oconnell

Mental Wellness

Veterans’ PTSD: Real Paths to Healing

For countless veterans, the invisible wounds of war, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other service-related conditions, cast long shadows over their lives long after…

Catherine Oconnell · · 12 min read