Therapy for First Responders & Police

Understanding Your Journey

You wear the badge of service with pride, but sometimes the weight of that responsibility can feel overwhelming.

We understands firsthand the unique challenges you face.

a man in a firefighter uniform standing in front of a fire truck
a man in a firefighter uniform standing in front of a fire truck

Every call, every scene, every split-second decision – they all leave their mark.

Meet Paul, a former officer and trained therapist.

I'm Paul Guanya, a social worker serving clients in CT and MA. My journey from law enforcement to mental health counseling wasn't just a career change – it was a calling. After years of serving on the force, I witnessed how the daily pressures of first responder life can impact mental health.

Now, I dedicate my practice to helping fellow first responders, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and EMTs navigate their mental health journey with someone who truly gets it.

a man in a green shirt smiling at the camera
a man in a green shirt smiling at the camera

Specialized Care for Your Unique Needs

Personalized and evidence based mental health services for first responders and law enforcement professionals.

people walking on street near red and white bus during daytime
people walking on street near red and white bus during daytime

Understanding Your Unique Challenges

  • Repeated exposure to traumatic events

  • High-stress decision making under pressure

  • Balancing duty with personal life

  • Managing hypervigilance off-duty

  • Dealing with public scrutiny

  • Processing loss of fellow officers

  • Coping with shift work and irregular schedules

a man in a blue shirt is looking at a cell phone
a man in a blue shirt is looking at a cell phone
smiling man in gray sweater wearing black cap
smiling man in gray sweater wearing black cap

Why Choose Specialized Therapy?

The nature of your work creates unique mental health challenges that standard therapy approaches might not fully address.

You need someone who understands the unspoken aspects of your profession – the dark humor that helps you cope, the brotherhood/sisterhood that sustains you, and the commitment to duty that drives you.

EMDR Therapy: Proven Relief for Trauma

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful, evidence-based treatment specifically effective in processing trauma. EMDR has shown remarkable results in helping first responders:

  • Process difficult calls and traumatic scenes

  • Reduce anxiety and hypervigilance

  • Improve sleep and reduce nightmares

  • Maintain emotional stability on and off duty

Your Privacy and Comfort Matter

Understanding the importance of discretion in your profession, I offer:

  • Flexible scheduling for shift workers

  • Telehealth- attend sessions in the privacy of your home

  • Strict confidentiality

  • Experience with department fitness-for-duty concerns

person holding smartphone sitting on couch
person holding smartphone sitting on couch
a man in a blue shirt is looking at a cell phone
a man in a blue shirt is looking at a cell phone

Take the First Step

You've spent your career helping others – now it's time to invest in yourself. As someone who has worn the uniform, I understand that seeking help takes courage.

You don't have to carry this weight alone.

Contact me for a confidential consultation. Let's work together to develop strategies that honor your service while supporting your mental health and well-being.

gray computer monitor

Questions?

Send us a message. We promise to respond within 24 hours.

Therapy Services

Specialized mental health support for first responders, including police, EMTs, and firefighters, led by a former officer trained in EMDR therapy.

Location

Virtual only- Serving all adults located in CT and MA

Hours

Weekday afternoons and evenings