Therapy for First Responders in the Brainerd Area
Straightforward Support for Law Enforcement, Paramedics, Fire Fighters, Dispatchers, and Military Personnel.
You probably never imagined you would be here.
You might even hate to admit that you’re looking at this website. Therapy isn’t something you ever planned on doing. You don’t think a therapist can understand. You’re wondering if I can even help.
You spend your days serving your community through long, thankless shifts. You don’t always feel supported by your administration. You see the awful sides of humanity and daily life that most of us never have to witness. Day in and day out, you’re exposed to so many of the terrible things that are simply a headline to the rest of us. I know you don’t do it for the appreciation, and I know you don’t need to hear another “thank you for your service.” You simply want to continue life the way it used to be.
I consider it an honor to work with the first responders of the Brainerd Lakes Region and greater Minnesota. I have special training in the trauma you experience on the job. I am married to a firefighter and law enforcement officer, so I personally witness the effects of first responder work, and I feel the effects of living in a first responder’s world. When you work with me, you will never be judged for the work you do or the ways you find yourself coping with it. I’m here to meet you where you are and help you achieve your goals with efficiency.
Does any of this sound familiar?
You’ve lost sight of why you chose this career
Your personal life is constantly affected by what has happened at work
You’re not proud of how you have been dealing with the stress
I want you to know: It can get better.
faqs
Common questions about therapy for First Responders.
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No one. Therapy is confidential and protected by HIPAA privacy law, just like a medical appointment would be. Your coworkers, administration, even your family or friends will never know you are in therapy unless you choose to disclose it. My office is also located in a private, ambiguous location. The only possible exception to your privacy is if I have to make a mandated report or take necessary steps to prevent you from self-harm. Also, if you choose to use insurance, they will know what your diagnosis is and how often you are attending. I’m happy to go over this in more detail during our free consultation, or any time during therapy.
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That depends entirely on what your goals are and how we decide to approach them, as well as how you respond to therapy. Most people attend once per week, and the average time to see results is three months. I understand that efficiency is important to you, and I will work with you to create a structured plan for our work together.
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In your first session I will complete a diagnostic assessment, which is a thorough clinical evaluation of your mental health symptoms or diagnoses. From there I will work with you to identify your individual goals, as well as therapeutic strategies for how I can help you achieve them. Ongoing sessions are more “client lead” meaning I allow you to determine what you want to focus on throughout the process.
I want you to know:
You’re not alone.
Let’s work together to help you process the challenges you’re facing as a result of your career.
imagine if you…
Understood why you’re reacting this way
Could stop questioning your ability or desire to do your job
Felt free to process your thoughts, questions, and doubts without judgment
Ready to get started?