Opening the Door to Serve Veterans Through Massage Therapy

Massage therapy has long been recognized as a powerful tool for reducing stress, managing chronic pain, and improving overall wellness. For many veterans, these benefits are not just a luxury—they’re a vital part of recovery and long-term health management. As a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), you are uniquely positioned to help meet this growing need. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is expanding access to integrative care through its Community Care Network (CCN), which allows veterans to receive services from approved healthcare providers outside traditional VA facilities. This means LMTs across the country now have the opportunity to serve veterans while growing their practices through consistent, reimbursed referrals. However, navigating the VA system can feel overwhelming at first—especially if you're unfamiliar with the terminology, required registrations, or steps involved. That’s where this guide comes in. This eBook was created to walk you through everything you need to know to become a VA-approved provider, including: An overview of how the VA and CCN systems work Required credentials and documentation A step-by-step application process Tips for managing referrals and billing Resources to support your journey By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to align your massage practice with the VA—and begin serving a population that truly deserves your care. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your existing practice, this guide will give you the tools to take confident, informed steps forward. Let’s get started.