A long-vacant book store soon could be a clinic where veterans can find help for post traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse and other issues.

The Jack C. Montgomery VA Hospital plans to move part of its behavioral health unit to the old Hastings Books Music and Video store at York Street and Shawnee Bypass.

Medical Center spokeswoman Nita McClellan said the clinic could be open early in 2010. The clinic will offer services to veterans of any era needing post traumatic stress disorder treatment or substance abuse treatment.

Beth Jeffries, Ph.D.., psychologist and supervisor of the hospital’s PTSD team said the new clinic “means everything to us.”

“We have grown in terms of staff in the past three to five years, which means more providers and services,” she said. “But we have been sitting on top of each other in our offices.”

McClellan said the new facility, has a net space of about 11,256 square feet.

The building, located in the southeast corner of the Northpointe Plaza Shopping Center’s parking lot, once housed Hastings Books Music and Video store. The store opened in 1991, then moved across York Street to Curt’s Mall in 1999. Shadows of lettering from old signage remain on exterior walls. Promotions for sales and videos remain on windows.

McClellan said the larger space could allow more group sessions and more flexible schedules.

Post traumatic stress disorder is an anxiety disorder that could occur after a traumatic event, including combat or military exposure, terrorist attaciks or natural disasters.

Reach Cathy Spaulding at 684-2928 or cspaulding@muskogeephoenix.com.