First responders—police officers, firefighters, and dispatchers—face unique challenges on the job. The stress, trauma, and emotional weight they carry can take a serious toll on their mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, PTSD, and burnout. For many years, these issues were under-addressed, but Arizona took a crucial step forward in 2018 with the passing of the Craig Tiger Act, which provides better access to mental health care for first responders.

Through my partnership with Public Safety Crisis Solutions, I’m proud to provide therapy sessions to first responders and their families, helping them heal from the emotional challenges of their work and supporting them in leading healthier lives.

How Public Safety Crisis Solutions Supports First Responders

Public Safety Crisis Solutions is dedicated to providing first responders and their families with the mental health care they need to cope with the pressures of their job. As part of their network, I offer therapy sessions designed specifically for first responders, addressing the unique experiences they face in the line of duty.

Our services are covered, meaning that first responders can access therapy without worrying about the cost. This removes one of the largest barriers to mental health care and ensures that they receive the help they need at the earliest signs of stress, trauma, or emotional challenges.

First Responder Services:

Working with first responders through this partnership, I use evidence-based therapeutic approaches to address the mental health challenges that can arise from their work. This includes dealing with:

1. PTSD and Trauma: First responders often witness or experience traumatic events that can lead to PTSD. Through therapy, I help them process these events, work through trauma, and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

2. Anxiety and Depression: The high-stress nature of emergency work can trigger anxiety or depression, impacting both work and home life. I provide tools to manage these feelings and restore emotional balance.

3. Relationship Strain: The intense demands of being a first responder can strain relationships with spouses and family members. Therapy helps rebuild communication and emotional connection, ensuring that families are supported as well.

4. Burnout and Compassion Fatigue: Constant exposure to crises can lead to burnout and compassion fatigue, where first responders feel emotionally exhausted. I help them manage stress, set healthy boundaries, and reconnect with their sense of purpose.

Family Support

The impact of a first responder’s job doesn’t stop at the station—it often follows them home. That’s why I also offer therapy sessions for the families of first responders. Spouses, children, and other loved ones may face their own struggles, from living with the time demands of the job, the safety concerns, to dealing with the emotional fallout when their partner returns home after a difficult shift. These sessions are designed to help families navigate these challenges, improve communication, and build stronger, healthier relationships.

Why Mental Health Care for First Responders Matters

First responders are on the front lines, serving our communities in times of crisis. But this work often comes at a personal cost. By ensuring they have access to the mental health support they need, we can help them continue to do their jobs effectively while protecting their own well-being.

The Craig Tiger Act and partnerships like the one with Public Safety Crisis Solutions make this support possible, helping first responders feel seen, valued, and cared for. Therapy is not just about addressing mental health issues; it’s about building resilience, strengthening families, and ensuring that our first responders can continue serving their communities without sacrificing their mental and emotional health.

What is the Craig Tiger Act?

The Craig Tiger Act is a law named after Phoenix police officer Craig Tiger, who tragically took his own life after struggling with untreated PTSD following a traumatic incident on duty. The act was passed to ensure that no other first responder has to face these battles alone. It mandates that first responders who are exposed to High Stress Incidents (HSI) on the job receive critical mental health support, including paid time off for therapy and treatment.

The act recognizes that first responders face high levels of stress and trauma and ensures they have access to mental health services without the stigma or financial burden that may prevent them from seeking help. It also encourages early intervention, which is key to preventing long-term mental health issues.

Let’s Chat.

Through my work with Public Safety Crisis Solutions, I’m committed to helping first responders and their families heal, grow, and thrive. The Craig Tiger Act is a critical step forward in ensuring that those who protect us have the support they need to care for their own mental health. If you’re a first responder or a family member looking for support, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you find healing and hope.