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Compassionate, expert care for first responders facing mental health and substance use disorders, with personalized, evidence-based support to build resilience and confidently return to work, family, and daily life.
Programming for First Responders
Supporting Our Communities’ Heroes
First responders dedicate their lives to protecting others, yet the daily demands of their work take a heavy toll. Police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics face intense stress and trauma, putting them at greater risk for mental health challenges and substance use disorders.
Returning to
the Field
We recognize that many first responders face a unique challenge of preparing to reenter high-pressure, triggering workplaces after treatment. Balancing their mental health with the demands of a stressful job and family commitments can feel overwhelming, so we offer specialized aftercare support designed to help first responders manage these complexities. Additionally, we recognize that employers are often part of the recovery journey, and we work closely with them to ensure seamless support throughout treatment and beyond.
Treatment Engagement
What We Treat
STR Silver Pines provides targeted, comprehensive care for first responders, addressing the most common mental health and substance use challenges that come with this high-stress profession, including:
- Anxiety disorders
- Depressive disorders
- Dual diagnosis
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Substance use disorder (SUD)
- Trauma
Levels of Care
Our specialized treatment programs at Silver Pines offer the following levels of care:
Detoxification
We provide medication-assisted detox services in a safe, supportive environment, helping first responders safely navigate withdrawal and prepare for long-term recovery.
Residential treatment (RTC)
Our residential program offers a structured, secure setting where first responders can focus on healing, addressing trauma, and building a strong foundation for lasting recovery.
why choose us
The Silver Pines Difference
Our comprehensive treatment program is designed to help first responders heal, process trauma, and rebuild resilience. Taking the first step toward recovery is courageous — and you don’t have to do it alone. Our expert team is deeply familiar with the unique challenges of first responders and is committed to providing personalized care that supports lasting recovery and a successful return to the stressful demands of work and life.
First Responder-Led Groups
Weekly process groups address PTSD, trauma, critical incident stress, and the emotional toll of frontline work in a supportive space.
Specialized Housing
Private or shared accommodations with peers who are fellow first responders or veterans, fostering a supportive environment for recovery.
Priority Admissions + Transportation
We prioritize first responders for same-day admissions when possible and offer transportation within a six-hour radius.
Clinical Expertise, Lived Experience
Practical coping strategies to strengthen mental well-being and prepare first responders for a successful return to duty.
Clinical Expertise with Lived Experience
Our evidence-based care is led by an expert team with lived experience and deep expertise in treating both veterans and first responders. We understand the unique challenges they face and provide specialized support through a dedicated clinical staff with similar experiences. With a commitment to compassionate and effective care, we create a tailored approach to help them achieve lasting recovery and well-being.
Matthew Sommons, MD
Medical Director +
Military Veteran
Harry Fisher
Primary Therapist +
Former Police Officer
Doug Chupasko
Lead Behavioral Health Tech +
Army-Airforce Veteran
Brian Sabo
Clinical Partnerships +
Former Police Officer
Our Treatment Approach
We combine impactful evidence-based treatments with experiential and supplementary therapies to create a holistic, personalized healing experience for first responders, addressing their unique challenges and experiences.
Acceptance + commitment therapy (ACT)
ACT encourages the acceptance of complex emotions and values-based living. We incorporate meditation, yoga, and ACT-focused groups, aligning with the service-driven values of first responders.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
CBT helps individuals identify and change harmful thinking and behavior patterns with a tailored approach to the specific experiences tied to service. We offer multiple CBT and relapse prevention groups per week that are rooted in CBT.
Community reinforcement approach (CRA)
CRA focuses on improving the quality of life by replacing substance use with healthier, rewarding activities. For veterans, CRA integrates social, vocational, and recreational support to promote long-term recovery and enhance overall well-being.
Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
DBT helps first responders manage intense emotions, build resilience, and improve interpersonal relationships. By combining mindfulness, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance, DBT equips first responders with practical skills to navigate trauma and stress while fostering long-term mental health.
Family therapy
Family therapy helps first responders and their families restore trust and communication affected by substance use and stress. We offer in-person family programs based on BALM principles every Sunday and virtual support groups on Wednesdays and Saturdays, with additional sessions available as needed.
Group therapy
Group therapy fosters peer support, reduces isolation, and tailors 12-step facilitation and SMART Recovery programs. First responders participate in specialized groups led by experienced peers.
Medication-assisted therapy (MAT)
MAT is a treatment for opioid and alcohol dependence using Suboxone, Vivitrol, Naltrexone, and more (excluding methadone). Medical providers assess and manage medications on a weekly basis.
Motivational interviewing (MI)
MI builds internal motivation, reduces resistance, and enhances engagement in treatment. We offer multiple MI-based groups throughout the week.
Motivational enhancement therapy (MET)
MET is a client-centered approach that helps first responders strengthen their motivation to overcome substance use by exploring personal goals and ambivalence. MET empowers first responders to commit to change through guided conversations, fostering long-term recovery and personal growth.
Trauma-informed care + therapy
We recognize the profound impact trauma has on thoughts, behaviors, and the recovery process. Our priority is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel empowered to build trust, embrace vulnerability, and foster authenticity as an essential foundation for healing.
Mindfulness-based relapse prevention (MBRP)
MBRP combines mindfulness with relapse prevention to manage stress and cravings through DBT, yoga, and meditation groups.
Recreational + experiential therapies
Holistic therapies include outdoor activities, art therapy (led by a trauma-informed art therapist), and recreational activities that build comradery and foster interpersonal connections.
LGBTQIA+ Support
STR Behavioral Health is committed to providing an inclusive and affirming environment for LGBTQIA+ first responders. Understanding their unique challenges — such as stigma and discrimination — our team offers compassionate, culturally competent care. We prioritize mental health and well-being, ensuring everyone feels valued, respected, and supported throughout their recovery journey.
Flexible Payment Options
Silver Pines offers both in-network and out-of-network insurance options, as well as private pay rates. Our admissions team works with you to find the best payment solution for your needs.
And more
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you provide PTSD + trauma treatment?
Yes. We offer a variety of trauma-based therapies delivered by master’s-level clinicians with specialized expertise in first responder-related trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
What obstacles prevent first responders from seeking help for addiction?
First responders face several obstacles to seeking help, including stigma, fear of job-related consequences, confidentiality concerns, and the pressure to maintain a strong, resilient image. The demanding nature of their work often makes it challenging to acknowledge vulnerability and reach out for support.
Can I stay connected with my family while in treatment?
Yes. We offer in-person family programs every Sunday and virtual support groups on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Additional sessions can also be scheduled as needed to ensure ongoing support.
Do you provide transportation?
Yes, transportation is provided within six hours of the facility.
Can you accommodate a same-day admission?
Yes, we can accommodate same-day admissions based on availability and assessment. Our admissions team is ready to assist with a swift and smooth intake process, ensuring you receive the care and support you need quickly.
Take the first step toward healing. Contact our expert team today to learn how our specialized treatment for substance use, alcohol addiction, and dual diagnosis can help you reclaim your life.