Army Veteran Made a Career Change in His Late 40s, Becoming a Clinical Counselor to Help Other Vets with Mental Health Struggles

**Veteran’s Inspiring Transformation: From Soldier to Mental Health Counsellor**

In a remarkable journey of resilience and renewal, Jeff Gibboni, aged 49, has successfully navigated the challenges of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, and a divorce to carve out a new path as a mental health counsellor. A former U.S. Army soldier, Gibboni has recently completed his studies in Clinical Counselling at Alvernia University, determined to help fellow veterans and law enforcement officers facing similar struggles.

Gibboni’s military service spanned from 1997 to 2001, after which he received support from the Army to pursue education at Hardin-Simmons University in Texas, leading to a Master of Science in Education. However, his post-military life was fraught with difficulties, including battles with addiction and mental health, which compounded after his divorce.

Throughout these struggles, Gibboni maintained a professional role as the chief deputy at the U.S. Marshals Service for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. His work involved being on a critical incident response team, providing essential support to law enforcement officers involved in shootings and their families during dire circumstances. This exposure to mental health crises sparked a desire in Gibboni to offer counselling, particularly to those who have served in the military or related fields.

Reflecting on his past, Gibboni acknowledged how time has changed his perspective. He expressed that despite feeling distant from his military self, the experiences have shaped him and fuelled his desire to support others. “I know that that’s me, but that feels like a lifetime ago,” he observed, reminiscing about his time in uniform.

In 2023, Gibboni made a pivotal decision to pursue a Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling. Initially, he harboured doubts about his ability to succeed. Balancing full-time work with night classes posed significant challenges, but he ultimately resolved to confront these obstacles head-on. “I didn’t believe I could actually do it,” he shared. Nevertheless, he found a welcoming environment at Alvernia University that aligned closely with his values and experiences.

His time at Alvernia proved transformative. Gibboni found the campus atmosphere deeply resonant with his worldview, particularly appreciating the Franciscan values upheld by the university. “It just made me want to put the word out and say, ‘Hey, vets, there’s something special going on here,’” he remarked, emphasising the profound connections he formed within the community.

Gibboni’s commitment to his coursework did not go unnoticed. He opted to attend classes in the evenings, ensuring he could fulfil his professional commitments while also achieving his academic goals. Nicole Hall, the director of the MACC programme, commended Gibboni’s enthusiasm and engagement, noting that his dedication to mastering counselling theories distinguished him as particularly suited for the profession. “There is no doubt that he will make a meaningful impact on his future clients and the field as a whole,” she stated.

Having graduated in May 2026, Gibboni is now interning at See You Through It Counseling in Laurel Springs, New Jersey. He embraces this new opportunity with a renewed sense of purpose, reflecting on the difference being a mature student has made in his life. “I have a much better appreciation for the college experience,” he explained, likening it to a second chance to get it right.

Gibboni’s narrative is one of hope and transformation, highlighting how personal experiences can fuel a desire to help others. His journey underscores the importance of resilience and dedication in the face of adversity, serving as an inspiring example for veterans seeking to transition into new careers.

For those who might be struggling with mental health issues, Gibboni’s story serves as a reminder that support is available. Individuals grappling with emotional distress or substance-related problems are encouraged to seek help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is reachable at 988, offering support day or night through calls, texts, or online chat services.