Find a Mental Health Professional for First Responders & Emergency Services

About First Responders & Emergency Services support

Police, paramedics, firefighters, emergency services workers, and others who work in first response roles are regularly exposed to traumatic and distressing events as part of their work. Over time, cumulative exposure to critical incidents can lead to PTSD, depression, anxiety, vicarious trauma, moral injury, and burnout. Workplace culture in many first response organisations has historically discouraged help-seeking, though this is slowly changing. Treatment for first responders works best when it is provided by practitioners who understand the organisational culture, the nature of traumatic exposure in these roles, and the practical constraints of shift work and confidentiality concerns. Trauma-focused therapies including EMDR and Trauma-Focused CBT are well-evidenced. Peer support programs within organisations are also valuable. In Australia, each emergency services agency has some level of employee support program, though quality and access vary. Fortem Australia provides dedicated mental health support for emergency services workers and their families. Beyond Blue's "Heads Up" program includes first responder resources. GPs can refer through Medicare's Better Access initiative, and many private practitioners with relevant expertise offer telehealth.