Crystal Reidy’s leadership journey embodies the transformative power of storytelling and resilience. As a U.S. Army veteran and Mental Health counselor, Crystal has used her experiences to foster healing and growth—not just for herself, but for countless others. Her story, which began with amplifying the voices of fellow soldiers, has evolved into a mission of empowering others to reimagine their own potential.
Mental Health and Leadership: A Shared Mindset
Crystal’s journey in the U.S. Army began as a journalist (46Q), a role that gave her the rare opportunity to share the stories of soldiers from every rank and background. She recalls her pride in writing about the Department of Defense’s first celebration of Pride Month and addressing difficult topics like Military Sexual Trauma (MST). “It was about highlighting the incredible things soldiers were doing while deployed,” Crystal says, “so people back home could truly see their impact.” But her time in the military meant more than just professional accomplishments. Growing up in severe poverty, joining the Army marked a turning point in Crystal’s life. “The military showed me I was so much more than the circumstances I was born into,” she explains. “It gave me the tools, confidence, and opportunities to chase my dreams.”
Now working as a Mental Health counselor, Crystal draws from her military experience to support others in their personal growth. She likens mental health work to the Army’s philosophy of “always improve your position.” In the field, this meant continuously fortifying defenses to stay prepared for challenges. In mental health, Crystal applies the same principle, encouraging people to use moments of calm to strengthen their resilience and prepare for life’s inevitable storms. It’s about always centering yourself, being mindful of your needs, and taking time to strengthen your mental and emotional well-being, even when things seem fine. Continuous improvement isn’t just for emergencies—it’s how we stay strong, balanced, and ready for whatever life throws at us.”
This philosophy has become fundamental to Crystal’s approach, both in her counseling work and in her personal leadership journey.
A Space for Growth and Healing
Crystal first joined the Women Veterans Leadership Program (WVLP) as a participant, later returning as an ambassador and alumna leader. For her, the WVLP was more than a leadership program—it was a transformative space for healing and self-discovery. “I was always so grateful for what the Army did for me that I brushed off the pain and injustice I faced, like toxic leadership and sexual harassment,” she shares. “Through the WVLP, I learned it’s okay to feel both gratitude and hurt. Recognizing the painful experiences doesn’t take away from my love for the military.”
This realization became a catalyst for Crystal’s growth. The program’s emphasis on diverse perspectives and inclusive leadership deepened her understanding of herself and others. It also reinforced her commitment to creating spaces where every voice—especially those from marginalized communities—can be heard.
As an alumna leader, Crystal found profound meaning in mentoring and coaching other women in the program. She describes the honor of helping others embrace their full stories—the good and the painful—and witnessing their courage to drive change. One moment that stands out for her is a conversation with a cohort member about the importance of visual representation in leadership programs. “She told me she looks at pictures to see if there’s diversity before applying,” Crystal recalls. “That stuck with me. Now I ensure my professional programs visibly reflect diversity because even small details can make a big difference in making people feel included.”
The Importance of the Women Veterans Leadership Program
Over the past four years, Crystal credits the WVLP with helping her build a network of strong, supportive women who have elevated her personally and professionally. “The relationships I’ve built have been life-changing,” she says. “These women have pushed me to grow, supported me when I needed it, and inspired me with their stories.” Crystal’s leadership today is deeply informed by her experiences in the WVLP. She continues to use storytelling as a tool for advocacy and empowerment, helping others see the value in their own journeys while strengthening her own.
“For too long, women in the military felt like we should just be grateful to be included,” she explains. “But the program flips the narrative. It reminds us that the military is fortunate to have us and that our voices and leadership matter.”
What sets the WVLP apart, Crystal says, is its commitment to treating women veterans with the respect and recognition they deserve. “It’s not just about leadership skills—it’s about honoring who we are and what we’ve accomplished,” she adds. Crystal hopes to see the WVLP expand, reaching more women veterans and amplifying its powerful impact. “When a woman goes through this program, the transformation doesn’t stop with her—it impacts her family, community, and beyond,” she explains. “Supporting the WVLP is an investment in a brighter future for everyone.”
Crystal further shares, "My message to any woman veteran considering joining the WVLP or becoming an ambassador is simple, sign up right now! But be prepared—you’ll get more out of it than you give. The experience is so powerful that even a year after the cohort is over, you’ll still be recognizing the skills and lessons you learned during the WVLP. It’s not just a one-time experience; it stays with you and continues to shape your leadership and personal growth long after the program ends. Trust me, it’s worth it."
Crystal’s leadership journey reflects the strength found in embracing both the successes and struggles of her past. By highlighting the experiences of others and drawing wisdom from her own, she has transformed her approach to leadership in the behavioral health field, sparking positive change within her community. Her focus on growth and resilience—while being open to vulnerability—has not only shaped her own leadership path, but has also inspired others to do the same. Crystal’s dedication to mental health, serves as a powerful example of leading with purpose, compassion, and a commitment to creating spaces for others to thrive.
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About Beneath the Service
Beneath the Service is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit headquartered in Washington, D.C., dedicated to building upon the exceptional qualities of military veterans and their families in their professional and personal reintegration. Beneath the Service focuses on the psychological components of social reintegration, helping veterans embrace identity, ignite purpose, and strengthen connections with their communities. Beneath the Service is committed to creating a lasting legacy of leadership and community impact by helping veterans and their families honor their past while shaping their future.
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