MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTION TREATMENT FOR FIRST RESPONDERS
PTSD, mental health, and addiction support for public safety personnel.
Being first on the scene takes its toll. From paramedics to EMTs to law enforcement officers and emergency service workers, we know that the operational stress associated with first responder roles and responsibilities can lead to PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance use challenges. We believe first responders deserve specialized care and support.
EHN Canada offers trauma-focused treatment programs created exclusively for first responders. Our specialized approach combines proven support with teams of dedicated clinicians who have extensive experience providing treatment to emergency services personnel. We’re here to help first responders achieve long-term recovery.
First responders face significantly higher rates of mental health challenges and trauma-related conditions.
44.5% of Canadian public safety personnel screen positive for one or more mental health disorders.
– Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment
1 in 10 public safety personnel report experiencing suicidal ideation.
23.2% of Canadian public safety personnel screen positive for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
– Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment
How our treatment programs support first responders
At EHN Canada, we know first responders need specialized support delivered by experts who understand the realities of emergency services work and the culture of first responder communities. Our treatment programs are designed to be flexible, responsive, and tailored to first responder needs.
Specialized trauma therapies
We use evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PET), and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), which are proven to reduce PTSD symptoms and improve long-term outcomes.
Private, flexible treatment options
We understand that work as a first responder can lead to unpredictable hours and demands. We offer a range of programming to meet their unique needs.
Peer community support
Heal and grow alongside fellow first responders who understand your unique experiences, challenges, and the culture of service.
Ongoing support
Access our Aftercare program and alumni community to find ongoing support after treatment.
Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction treatment for first responders
Our specialized inpatient and virtual programs provide comprehensive care designed specifically for mental health and addiction challenges that first responders face. We work hand-in-hand to create a treatment plan that respects first responder needs.
Inpatient treatment
Learn more about our treatment programs built for guardian communities.
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Trauma, PTSD & psychological injury treatment
Learn more about our approach to PTSD and trauma treatment.
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Want our team to reach out and discuss first responder treatment options? Fill out our form and we’ll be in touch soon.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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What is EHN Guardians and who do they serve?
EHN Guardians offers specialized care, expert clinicians, and customized programs exclusively for military, veterans, and first responders who are struggling with addiction, trauma, and other mental health disorders.
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Who can access EHN Guardians programs?
Our programs support members struggling with trauma, operational stress injuries, anxiety, depression, and substance use, with care designed specifically for the demands of first responders such as:
- Active first responders: police officers, firefighters, paramedics / EMS.
- Correctional officers and other correctional staff.
- Border security officers / border & immigration professionals (where applicable).
- Emergency dispatchers
- Frontline health‑care professionals and other “front‑line” workers
- EHN Guardians programs are also designed for members of the military and veterans
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Will attending treatment affect my job, return-to-duty, or future opportunities?
Participating in a mental health and PTSD treatment or addiction recovery program does not automatically impact promotions or career progression. Many first responders return to duty after rehab with improved resilience and functioning. We can help coordinate a safe return-to-work plan if you choose.
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Can I continue working or stay on modified duties while in treatment?
Our programs are designed to minimize disruption to daily life. While inpatient treatment at one of our facilities dedicated to military, veterans and first responders is a great option, first responders can also participate in a more flexible occupational stress injury and PTSD Virtual Intensive Treatment Program from home to maintain their daily responsibilities or match their comfort level.
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How long do inpatient or virtual addiction and trauma programs last for first responders?
Program length varies based on individual needs and the type of care required. Our clinicians create personalized plans that balance treatment intensity with your professional obligations. Fill out this form or call us at 1-866-963-6343 to learn more about treatment duration.
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Can you treat PTSD, operational stress injuries, and substance use at the same time?
Yes. We can treat trauma symptoms with or without addiction; however, many first responders experience co-occurring disorders, and EHN Guardians specializes in integrated care that treats PTSD, operational stress injuries, and substance use simultaneously. Our trauma-informed approach ensures that each condition is addressed in a coordinated, evidence-based program for lasting recovery.
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Can I involve my family in treatment or Aftercare?
Families play an essential role in recovery, and EHN Guardians provides dedicated support throughout a loved one’s treatment. Both programs below are delivered online, facilitated by EHN staff, and included at no extra cost.
- Educational Webinars: These sessions help family members understand the disorders and symptoms their loved one is facing while also focusing on their own well-being. Participants learn strategies to regain balance, establish healthy boundaries, and navigate the family dynamic during recovery.
- Guardian Family Connect: A weekly support group for EHN Guardians family members and support persons. This group offers a space to share experiences, receive mutual support, and connect with others who may be facing similar challenges.
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What are the expected outcomes of completing an addiction, mental health or PTSD program?
First responders who complete EHN Guardians programs often experience positive outcomes such as:
- Reduced PTSD and operational stress symptoms
- Improved coping strategies for trauma and addiction
- Enhanced emotional resilience
- Support for long-term wellness and relapse prevention
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What support is available after clients complete treatment?
EHN Guardians clients have access to a EHN Guardians-exclusive Aftercare group, included at no additional cost.
Aftercare includes:- One year of support after inpatient treatment, ten months of support after VITP
- Weekly 2-hour online sessions
- Support informed by DBT, CBT, ACT, and trauma-informed care
- Optional drug and alcohol monitoring
- EHN Canada Alumni Association
Aftercare helps clients maintain progress, navigate early recovery, reduce the risk of relapse, and transition smoothly back into daily life.
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What evidence-based trauma therapies are used for first responders in treatment?
All EHN Guardians programs are grounded in evidence-based clinical modalities, including CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, exposure therapy, and trauma-informed care. These approaches are research-supported and proven effective for treating trauma, PTSD, addiction, operational stress and concurrent mental health conditions.
These therapies are specifically adapted for the experiences of first responders, ensuring effective treatment for PTSD, operational stress injuries, and co-occurring conditions.
