Counseling Associates Employee Assistance Program Services for First Responders
New programs address mental health support tailored to help First Responders and their families process trauma
When we are in trouble, we call for help. That’s when we call our First Responders. Their job is to spring into action whenever we have a problem.
While First Responders rush into danger to save us, it’s their mental well-being that often needs rescuing.
Data from the National Institutes of Health and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that “30 percent of First Responders develop behavioral health conditions including, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as compared with 20 percent in the general population.”
Counseling Associates in Naples announces its Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services, designed specifically to address the mental health and well-being of First Responders. These new programs address a critical gap by reaching the ‘Missing Majority” — those who need mental health support but are often hesitant to seek it.
“Organizations need a solution that truly reaches and supports their entire workforce, not just those willing to raise their hand for help,” says Dr. Stephanie Roque, Psy.D., clinical director at Counseling Associates Naples office. “With EAP programs, our therapists help meet needs in a way that drives real engagement, improves outcomes and empowers employees to take charge of their mental health.”
Police officers, firefighters, paramedics and EMTs are trained to respond to challenging situations as they are the first to arrive at the scene of a major accident, natural disaster, or violent crime. They often face life-threatening situations while also witnessing others on the worst day of their lives. The emotional and psychological impact of this challenging work can build up over time, making it difficult to function optimally both on the job and in their personal lives.
Partnering with the Collier County Sheriff’s Department, North Collier Fire and Rescue and the City of Marco Island Fire Rescue Department, Counseling Associates therapists address the common physical and emotional challenges faced by First Responders and their families. Adrenal fatigue and post-critical incident cognitive distortions (negative thought patterns that can develop after experiencing a traumatic or stressful event) are common due to the constant high level of arousal First Responders experience in their work and their responses to experiencing traumatic events which are abnormal for most individuals.
These ongoing challenges make it hard to decompress between shifts. Many First Responders feel the need to appear strong for their peers and the public, leading to the suppression of emotions and reluctance to seek help.
Mental health counseling provides a safe, supportive environment where First Responders can express their emotions, process trauma and develop strategies to manage stress. Trained counselors understand the unique pressures of the job and are equipped to offer therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and trauma-focused care. These interventions are designed to reduce symptoms of PTSD, anxiety and depression, helping First Responders recover emotionally and mentally from the situations they encounter.
Counseling isn’t only about addressing crisis moments — it also offers tools for maintaining overall mental health and preventing burnout. Through regular therapy sessions, First Responders can learn techniques to cope with chronic stress, build resilience and improve their emotional regulation. Some agencies have implemented peer support programs, wellness initiatives, and even mandatory mental health check-ins to ensure their teams stay healthy.
The families of First Responders also face unique stressors. Worrying about the safety of a loved one who faces life-threatening situations daily can be emotionally exhausting. Counseling provides a space for families to talk through their fears, frustrations, and challenges, while also equipping them with tools to support their first responder relatives.
Family counseling sessions can also address issues such as communication breakdowns, which are common when one partner struggles to share their emotions or experiences after a difficult shift. By working with a counselor, families can strengthen their bonds, learn to navigate the complexities of first responder life and create a supportive environment at home.
Remember, strong minds save lives — counseling ensures our protectors stay resilient on and off duty.
“Making sure our responders are mentally and emotionally prepared is crucial for their effectiveness and wellbeing,” says Fire Chief Chris Byrne, City of Marco Island Fire Rescue Department. “We recognize that after a difficult incident, our personnel may have a need for support. Counseling Associates assists by providing training and support for our personnel in each of those times,” he adds.
Counseling Associates EAP programs offer a wide array of specialized support needed to overcome challenges and restore balance including:
In addition to these services, Counseling Associates provides evidence-based therapeutic techniques designed for trauma recovery, improved family dynamics and workplace stress management:
“We need to ensure that our firefighters have easy and confidential access to mental wellness programs, counseling services, peer support and to provide the resources needed to help process the trauma and stress they face daily. We cherish our partnership,” says Michael J. Choate, CDM, CFO, President, Florida Fire Chiefs Association, District Manager | Fire Chief Immokalee Fire Control District.
Counseling Associates offers a self-pay discount of $120 per session for first responders and their families. The practice accepts most major health insurance plans and provides flexible in person and telehealth appointment times Monday through Friday from 9 am until 7 pm and Saturday from 8 am until noon.
Schedule appointments, in person or telehealth, by calling or texting (239) 289-9796 or visiting AmericasCounselors.com.
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About Counseling Associates of America:
Counseling Associates of America is a leading provider of mental health services across Florida. Led by Dr. Stephanie Roque, Psy.D. and a skilled team of licensed professionals, the practice offers compassionate, holistic care designed to support mental wellness and help individuals lead fulfilling lives. Three offices locations:
