Pawnee Mental Health has announced the addition of Tyler Vela, MS (MAJ, CA), as Military Treatment Coordinator. Vela will serve Pawnee Mental Health’s 10-county service area, supporting former service members, veterans, and their families as they navigate access to mental healthcare and community resources.
In this role, Vela will focus on strengthening connections between military and civilian systems of care, helping ensure military-connected individuals and families can more easily access appropriate services and feel supported throughout the process.
Vela holds a Master of Science in Education with an emphasis in curriculum and completed the Civil Affairs Qualification Course at the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School. His education and military training support his ability to translate complex military experiences into accessible care navigation.
He brings more than 20 years of service in the U.S. Army Reserve, including extensive experience as a Civil Affairs Officer in high-stress and deployed environments. He also previously worked in Pawnee Mental Health’s Youth Services department, giving him direct experience with the organization’s mission and community-based approach. In addition, Vela has served as a high school English teacher and academic coaching manager at Kansas State University.