Support Your VA Claim with Expert Mental Health Nexus Letter
What is a Nexus Letter?
A nexus letter is a professional medical opinion letter that connects (or "links") your current mental health condition to events or stressors experienced during military service or first responder duties. It provides the critical evidence many VA claims need to prove service connection, especially when symptoms appear or are diagnosed after separation.
Nexus letters are particularly helpful for mental health claims, where the connection may not be obvious from service records alone. A strong nexus letter includes:
- A review of your records
- A clear diagnosis
- A reasoned explanation of the link
- The key phrase "at least as likely as not" related to service
How Forged Under Fire Can Help
Randy Cribbs is a licensed professional counselor with specialized experience supporting military members (any status or discharge), first responders, and frontline workers. As a culturally competent provider focused on those who serve, Randy offers independent evaluations and nexus opinion letters for mental health conditions commonly seen in these communities, such as:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
- Adjustment disorders
- Other trauma-related issues
These letters are based on a thorough review of your records and, when needed, a telehealth or in-person evaluation. Randy understands the unique challenges faced by veterans and first responders and is committed to providing supportive, non-judgmental documentation to strengthen your VA claim.
At Forged Under Fire, we also have Dr. Marianne Dumond, EdD, LPC-S, EMDR Certified, CFRC, CCTP, CISM—a highly experienced provider who brings over 20 years of dedicated work with veterans, first responders, and their families. Dr. Dumond serves not only as a counselor but as a strong advocate for her clients, using a holistic approach to mental wellness that incorporates EMDR, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and creative tools like art therapy (painting, drawing, and sculpting).
She specializes in post-traumatic stress injury, anxiety, depression, and self-medication issues, helping clients uncover strengths, rebuild assets, and stock their "toolbox" with lasting coping skills. With her own lived experience overcoming a severe head injury, Dr. Dumond brings empathy, good-natured humor, and a commitment to renewal—whether it's helping you rediscover, reinvent, or even "fire" her when you're ready to thrive independently.
Together, our team provides comprehensive, expert nexus letters tailored to VA standards, drawing on deep cultural competence with military and first responder experiences.
The Process
- Initial Contact: Schedule a consultation to discuss your needs.
- Records Review: Provide relevant military/service records, medical history, and any existing VA paperwork.
- Evaluation (if required): A focused session to assess symptoms and history.
- Nexus Letter Preparation: A detailed, professional letter tailored to VA standards.
- Delivery: Receive your letter promptly to submit with your claim.
Important Notes
- Nexus letters are independent medical opinions and complement (not replace) ongoing counseling.
- Fees apply for records review, evaluation, and letter preparation (contact for current pricing).
- While many licensed counselors' opinions are accepted by the VA, the strongest evidence often comes from providers familiar with your experiences—like those at Forged Under Fire.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation. We're here to support those who selflessly serve.