 Implementing intensive referral with rural veterans is problematic because their initial SUD treatment typically occurs in an intensive residential setting in a location which is removed from the veterans home and family. During this intensive residential SUD treatment, rural veterans attend self-help meetings near the residential treatment program with the goals of 1 identifying meetings they enjoy, 2 developing relationships with others who attend these meetings, and 3 obtaining a sponsor who will serve as a mentor to the newly sober veteran. However, upon discharge from residential SUD treatment, rural veterans return to their rural communities without these supports in place. Additionally, rural veterans attending 12- step meetings are likely to have challenges unique to their rural settings. In rural communities veterans are more likely to be recognized by others they know and rural residents rate self-help groups as less acceptable than urban residents do.7 Additionally, the only self-help groups consistently available in small communities are AA meetings which may cause some tension and ambivalence in those with problems other than alcohol. 