Counselling for First Responders

First responders carry stories that most people never see. Police officers, paramedics, firefighters, emergency call takers and other protective service workers are exposed to moments that stay in the body long after the shift ends. Over time these experiences can take a toll on sleep, mood, relationships and the sense of self. Counselling offers a private, confidential space to steady the mind and release what has been held for too long.

I provide trauma informed counselling for first responders across Victoria. This includes Victoria Police members who are seeking support in a safe and calm environment away from the workplace. My approach is respectful, collaborative and grounded in an understanding of the culture, pressure and expectations first responders navigate every day.

What First Responders Can Expect

You will be met with steady support and complete confidentiality. We move at your pace and identify the goals that matter to you. Many first responders have never had the space to slow down long enough to notice how the job has affected them. The work we do together allows you to find clarity, settle the nervous system and regain a sense of control.

Common reasons first responders seek counselling include:

• Critical incident stress
• Accumulated trauma over years of service
• Difficult callouts involving children, violence or fatalities
• Sleep disturbance and fatigue
• Anxiety, irritability or emotional numbness
• Moral injury and guilt
• Burnout, stress and loss of purpose
• Strain in personal or professional relationships
• Identity changes after injury, retirement or transition
• Grief and loss

Whether you have served for six months or twenty years, counselling offers a place to breathe and reset.

My Therapeutic Approach

My approach is integrative and person centred. Together we shape the process to fit your needs. I draw on:

• Eye Movement Integration Therapy
• EMDR
• Trauma informed counselling
• Solution focused work
• Parts work
• Existential and meaning based approaches
• Stress and resilience strategies for ongoing service

Eye movement therapies are particularly effective for first responders because they help the brain move traumatic memories out of the present and into the past where they belong. You do not need to retell graphic details unless you choose to. The work is steady, structured and safe.

Understanding the First Responder Experience

First responders often carry two families. Their traditional family at home and their professional family on shift. Both matter. Both come with expectations and pressure. I understand the culture of stoicism and the ways people learn to push down emotions to keep doing the job. Counselling creates space to soften that load without judgement.

Together we explore how critical incidents, accumulative stress, sensory memories, organisational pressure or workplace dynamics may be affecting your wellbeing. You are never expected to speak before you feel ready.

Support for the Career and Beyond

Some people come for short term support after a difficult call. Others need help working through long held trauma or preparing for return to duty. Some are navigating WorkSafe claims or the emotional impact of leaving the job. Wherever you are in your career, counselling helps you navigate change with strength and clarity.

Confidential and Independent

Your sessions are confidential. Your records are not shared with your department. The space is yours and yours alone. First responders often tell me they feel more comfortable speaking with someone outside the organisation who understands the culture but remains independent.

Who I Support

• Victoria Police
• SES
• CFA
• Fire Rescue Victoria
• Ambulance Victoria
• Paramedics
• Emergency call takers
• Corrections and custody officers
• Defence personnel
• Healthcare emergency workers

Both in person and online appointments are available.

Take the First Step

If the job has begun to feel heavy, or if a recent event has unsettled you, reach out. You will be met with calm, respect and expertise. This is a place where you can finally put down what you have been carrying and take up space for yourself again.