How has your role as a first responder impacted you and your relationships?
It's time to address these changes and regain control.
Do you ever catch yourself thinking -
‘I feel so overwhelmed and overstretched at work. I don’t think I’m doing a good job at home or work lately.’
- or -
‘I’m angry with my partner and my kids so much. We’re all exhausted - none of us ever get a break.’
Recently, mental health among first responders has gained more attention and acceptance, though stigma around seeking therapy and acknowledging struggles still exists. Finding a therapist who truly understands the unique challenges of the first responder lifestyle can be challenging. Additionally, spouses of first responders face their own set of difficulties that also need support.
You might be thinking, as a first responder - ‘I get home and I’m exhausted. I feel like I just need a day to recover and it’s really hard being a parent after I’ve been on duty.’
Or, as a first responder spouse - ‘I feel so lonely being married to a first responder. I feel like no one understands this life.’
“Courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway.” -John Wayne
Most often, first responders come to therapy to address something in their personal life (relationship issues, substance abuse, anger management) that has a direct link to the chronic stress or trauma they’ve experienced on the job. This can also impact first responder spouses, leaving them feeling burdened, abandoned, overwhelmed, and isolated.
Having been a military wife, I understand firsthand how - over time - we just start to think this is what ‘normal’ feels like.
But what if it didn’t have to be that way?
It's easy to become frustrated and resentful when the reality of being a first responder doesn't match your expectations, leaving you feeling isolated, exhausted, and overwhelmed.
I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space for both first responders and their spouses to explore these barriers and find a path forward. Together, we'll work to help you build a life that transcends the impact of trauma and chronic stress.
Post-traumatic growth and resilience are not only real but achievable.