Elizabeth Dole Foundation and Leidos Launch Virtual Counseling Pilot to Support Military and Veteran Caregivers
MEDIA CONTACT
Matt Simeon
media@elizabethdolefoundation.org
Washington, D.C.—November 19, 2025—The Elizabeth Dole Foundation (EDF), in partnership with Leidos QTC Health Services (LQTC), announced the launch of a first-of-its-kind pilot providing no-cost, virtual mental health counseling to military and veteran caregivers ages 18+.
The program is designed for America’s “Hidden Heroes”—the spouses, partners, family members, and friends who care for wounded, ill, or injured service members and veterans. More than 14.3 million Americans shoulder these responsibilities at great cost to their own health, financial security, and wellbeing.
Through this pilot, an initial 40 caregivers in California, Florida, and Texas will have access to up to ten confidential counseling sessions with independently licensed counselors—at no cost to the caregiver. Sessions emphasize short-term, evidence-based support and practical coping strategies tailored to the realities of caregiving.
“When caregivers are supported emotionally, entire families thrive,” said Steve Schwab, CEO of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. “That’s why mental health and wellness are at the center of everything we do. Too many caregivers still face barriers—cost, access, and stigma—that prevent them from getting the help they deserve. Together with Leidos QTC Health Services, we’re breaking down those barriers so caregivers can care for their loved ones and also protect their own well-being.”
“Caregivers are the cornerstone of military and veteran health,” said Larry Schaefer, CEO, Leidos QTC Health Services. “In our mission to make a difference for Veterans and their care, we’re ensuring they have the strength and resilience to sustain their critical roles.”
Program Highlights
- Up to 10 free counseling sessions over 12 weeks
- Weekly, 50-minute virtual meetings with licensed counselors
- Focus on problem-solving therapy and coping skills
- Flexible scheduling to meet caregivers' needs
The pilot will run through April 2026 and will be evaluated for potential expansion nationwide.
About the Elizabeth Dole Foundation: The Elizabeth Dole Foundation is the preeminent organization empowering, supporting, and honoring our nation’s 14.3 million military and veteran caregivers—the spouses, parents, family members, and friends who care for America’s wounded, ill, or injured service members and veterans. Established by Senator Elizabeth Dole in 2012, the Foundation works to empower military and veteran caregivers, their families, and their communities through programs, partnerships, and advocacy that drive innovative, impactful, and sustainable solutions. The Foundation’s Hidden Heroes public awareness campaign brings vital attention to the untold stories of military and veteran caregivers, galvanizing action to strengthen support for them in communities across the nation. Visit elizabethdolefoundation.org for more information.
About Leidos QTC Health Services: Leidos QTC Health Services along with its subsidiaries and affiliated entities collaborate closely with government and non-government customers to address current and future program needs within the health services domain. We specialize in disability- focused medical examinations, independent medical exams and review services, occupational health services, diagnostic testing and case management solutions. As innovators, we focus on advancing technologies that improve service delivery, with a particular emphasis on enhancing accessibility for examinees in rural communities. With a proven track record of continuous improvement and steady growth, we now handle over 2.8 million appointments annually.