Strengthening Veteran Relationships
What is W2SM?
The Warrior to Soul Mate (W2SM) program is a practical, skills-based educational program designed by the VA to help Veteran couples strengthen their relationships. It is not couples therapy, but an intensive, interactive training delivered in a supportive, small-group setting.
Using applied learning in intimate relationship skills, W2SM helps Veterans and their partners
build the communication and connection skills that military service may have disrupted.
How It Works
W2SM is delivered as an intensive weekend retreat or in multi-week sessions with an
interdisciplinary team. Couples learn practical tools in a hyper-focused, supportive environment.
Key Skills Taught
• Daily Temperature Reading – Check-emotional awareness
• Emotional Jug Emptying – Process and share feelings
• Fair Fight of Change – Healthy conflict resolution
• Effective communication techniques
• Emotional awareness and empathy
Key Benefits
Research-backed results for Veterans and their partners:
- Lower anxiety levels
• Improved marital satisfaction
• Increased intimacy and affection
• Better conflict resolution skills
• Enhanced emotional connection
• Deeper empathy for each other
• Stronger relationship cohesion
• Improved overall health and well-being
“I feel like this program has given us tools to mold our reactions.” – W2SM Participant
What is W2SM?
Military service teaches coping skills like “toughing it out” and following orders—but these don’t
work in intimate relationships. W2SM bridges the gap.
Program Supports:
- Relationship reintegration after service
• Mental health and emotional well-being
• Prevention of relationship breakdown
• Whole health and family resilience
Warrior to Soul Mate is a program of the Department of Veterans Affairs
Contact the Chaplain Service at your local VA Medical Center to Learn More About W2SM Programs
The nearest VA Medical Center Chaplain Service may be found using the link below:
https://www.patientcare.va.gov/PATIENTCARE/chaplain/Chaplain_Directory.asp