Resources
Mental health and trauma affect everyone in this job differently. There isn’t a single program, therapy, or approach that works for everyone. What helps one person process trauma may not work for someone else—and that’s okay.
The resources below include trauma programs, counseling services, peer support organizations, crisis lines, and therapist search tools. Some are designed specifically for first responders, while others can help you find professional support in your area.
On the blog, I discuss some of these resources in more detail, particularly the ones I’ve personally looked into or experienced. To be clear, I have experience with some of these resources, but not all of them, and this list isn’t meant to be an endorsement of every program.
The goal is simply to provide options. When it comes to trauma and mental health, finding what works for you is what matters most.
Save A Warrior (SAW)
A nonprofit program offering intensive multi-day retreats and follow-up support designed to help veterans and first responders process trauma, PTSD, and suicidal ideation through peer support and holistic healing approaches.
Website: https://saveawarrior.org
First Responders Bridge
Provides free retreats and support programs for active and retired first responders and their families dealing with trauma, stress, or life-altering events. The program focuses on education, peer connection, and personal growth.
Website: https://firstrespondersbridge.org
eTMS Ohio
Offers advanced brain-based treatment using EEG-guided Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to help treat PTSD, depression, traumatic brain injury, and other neurological or mental health conditions.
Website: https://etmsohio.com
Ohio ASSIST Program
A statewide initiative focused on supporting first responders after traumatic incidents by providing education, wellness programs, and resources to address cumulative stress and behavioral health challenges.
Website: https://ohioassist.org
Safety Forces Support Center
Provides specialized counseling, crisis support, and wellness services for law enforcement, fire, EMS, and dispatch personnel dealing with job-related stress, trauma, and mental health challenges.
Website: https://safetyforcescenter.org
CopLine
A confidential 24/7 hotline staffed by retired law enforcement officers providing peer support to active and retired officers and their families.
Website: https://copline.org
Safe Call Now
A 24-hour confidential crisis referral and support line for public safety employees, emergency responders, and their families.
Website: https://www.safecallnowusa.org
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
A nationwide crisis hotline offering free, confidential support for people experiencing suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, or mental health crises. Available 24/7 by calling or texting 988.
Website: https://988lifeline.org
Ohio Office of First Responder Wellness
A state initiative aimed at improving mental health resources, resilience training, and wellness programs for Ohio’s first responder community.
Website: https://dps.ohio.gov/wellness
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
The largest grassroots mental health organization in the U.S., offering education, support groups, advocacy, and resources for individuals and families affected by mental illness.
Website: https://www.nami.org
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Treatment Locator
A federal directory that allows users to search for mental health and substance-use treatment providers across the United States by location and service type.
Website: https://findtreatment.gov
Psychology Today Therapist Directory
An online directory that allows users to search for therapists by location, specialty (PTSD, trauma, EMDR, etc.), insurance accepted, and therapy type.
Website: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists
EMDR International Association Therapist Finder
The official directory for certified EMDR therapists, allowing users to locate trained clinicians who specialize in trauma processing using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy.
Website: https://www.emdria.org/find-an-emdr-therapist