Individualized Initial Counseling
Those separating or retiring from active-duty must meet with a counselor and complete a personal self-assessment to begin the development of an Individual Transition Plan to identify their unique needs and establish a post-transition goal. This one-on-one counseling session must start no later than 365 days before their anticipated date of separation or retirement. This is the first step of the transition process.
Pre-Separation Counseling
This is the second step of the formal transition process and must be completed prior to registering for other TAP services. Pre-separation counseling, just like the Initial Counseling, must start no later than 365 days before the transition date. Review by-law information like benefits, entitlements, and resources. Caregivers and spouses are encouraged to attend with their service members.
Those impacted by Force Management programs should attend this counseling.
DoD SkillBridge - Career Skills Program
The SkillBridge - Career Skills Program links transitioning service members from all branches with civilian training opportunities and is authorized by the Veterans Opportunity to Work (VOW) Act. The program provides eligible transitioning service members with opportunities to participation in apprenticeships, internships, job shadowing, on-the-job training, employment skills training, and certifications. To participate, service members must expect to be honorably discharged or discharged under honorable conditions and released from active duty within 180 calendar days of starting this program.
To learn more about local opportunities, visit DoD SkillBridge and search for "San Antonio" in the keyword field. Or call:
JBSA-Fort Sam Houston: (210) 488-4119
JBSA-Lackland: (210) 563-8223
JBSA-Randolph: (210) 727-1281