Mental Health & Support Resources

This page provides an ongoing list of mental health and support resources for EMS professionals and first responders in Wisconsin and beyond. It includes crisis hotlines, peer support programs, counseling services, addiction recovery resources, financial counseling, and veteran-specific programs. Both in-person and telehealth options are included, and approximate costs are noted when available to help you make informed choices. Scroll to explore your options or click one of the options below to navigate directly to your desired resource type. 

Crisis Lines & 24/7 Helplines for First Responders

If you or a fellow responder are in crisis or need immediate support, these confidential hotlines are available 24/7:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988 to reach the national crisis line for anyone in emotional distress or suicidal crisis (free and confidential). (Formerly the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.)

• Safe Call Now: 1-206-459-3020 – A 24/7 helpline staffed by first responders for first responders and their family members, assisting with mental health, substance abuse, and personal issues (free).

• NVFC “Share The Load” Helpline (Fire/EMS Helpline): 1-888-731-3473 – A confidential 24/7 helpline by the National Volunteer Fire Council for fire/EMS personnel and their families. You can also text VOLFIRE to 1-855-889-7722 for support. This program offers peer support and has an online directory of behavioral health professionals familiar with first responder culture.

• Next Rung Peer Support: Text or call 833-698-7864 – Next Rung connects first responders with a fellow first responder for peer support via phone, text, social media, or video (free). It is run by firefighters and provides an outlet to talk or be referred to further professional help.

• Fire/EMS Crisis Support (FireStrong): FireStrong Crisis Line – The FireStrong hotline (number available on their website) connects firefighters, EMS, and their families with a master’s-level counselor who understands fire service culture. This line is available 24/7 (free). FireStrong’s website also provides wellness resources for member departments.

• Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741-741 – Free 24/7 text-based mental health support. You’ll be connected with a trained crisis counselor via text or WhatsApp to help you through any crisis (free).

• SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) – A free, confidential 24/7 helpline from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. It provides information and referrals for individuals and families facing mental health and/or substance use disorders. (They can guide you to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community resources.)

• Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 – A 24/7 national hotline dedicated to providing crisis counseling and support for anyone (including first responders) experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-made disasters (free and multilingual).

• Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then Press 1 – A 24/7 crisis line for veterans and service members (or text 838255). It connects you with responders at the VA who understand military culture (free and confidential). (More veteran-specific resources are listed in the Veteran Support section below.)

• Wisconsin County Crisis Lines: If you prefer to speak with local crisis responders, every county in Wisconsin has a 24-hour crisis line. [See the directory of Wisconsin county crisis numbers] for immediate in-person response options in your area. (Calling local crisis lines can facilitate faster connection to nearby resources.)

Peer Support & Free Counseling Programs

These programs provide peer support or counseling at no cost, and many are run by fellow first responders or nonprofit organizations. They understand the unique stresses of EMS and public safety work:

• Professional Fire Fighters of Wisconsin (PFFW) MAP Peer Support Team: A statewide network of trained peer supporters (fire, EMS, dispatch, etc.) dedicated to assisting any first responder in need. This Member Assistance Program (MAP) is run through the PFFW Charitable Foundation. Peer counselors (who are first responders themselves) can provide confidential support, resource referrals, or just a listening ear. Cost: Free. (Contact can be made via the PFFW MAP website or by phone – e.g., their team clinician and peer lead contacts are listed on PFFWCF’s site.)

• The Code Green Campaign Resource Hub: Code Green maintains a large online Resource Database with state-by-state listings of therapists, support programs, and treatment centers that understand first responders. This includes a list of known Wisconsin resources (e.g. culturally competent therapists in WI) and national programs. Code Green also offers educational materials and allows providers with first responder expertise to list themselves. Cost: Free directory access.

• 911 At Ease International (911AEI): A nonprofit that provides free, confidential counseling for first responders and their immediate families. They connect you with a culturally competent licensed therapist in your area (or via telehealth) for trauma-focused counseling at no cost to you. There is no insurance billing or employer involvement. Simply fill out the “Get Support” form on their website or call 1-888-283-2734 (888-AT-EASE-4) to be matched with a counselor. Cost: Free (services are donor-funded).

• Compassion Alliance: A nationwide 501(c)(3) based in Arizona that bridges first responders (active or retired) and spouses to licensed trauma therapists. They provide a number of free counseling sessions for first responders and their spouses to heal from duty-related trauma. The process is confidential and quick – upon contacting them, they will connect you with a counselor experienced in first responder issues, with no cost and no insurance needed. (Contact via their website or call 866-892-9667.)

• Trails of Purpose: A nonprofit offering free mental health services and equine-assisted therapy to service members, veterans, first responders, and their families. Their mission is to help overcome the effects of trauma and life transitions resulting from service. Cost: Free – no one pays for therapy at Trails of Purpose, and no insurance is required. (They have minimal wait times. Services may include traditional therapy, group sessions, and equine therapy on-site. Contact via their website to learn more or schedule.)

• Church Health Services – First Responder Counseling (Beaver Dam, WI): Church Health Services, based in Beaver Dam, WI, offers free mental and behavioral health counseling specifically for first responders. This program, funded by a grant, serves primarily Dodge and Fond du Lac counties (and generally south-central Wisconsin). There are no out-of-pocket costs for qualified first responders. To access services, call 920-887-1766 (option 2) and mention you are a first responder seeking support.

• Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Teams: Many regions in Wisconsin have CISM or crisis peer support teams that can respond after particularly traumatic calls (e.g. fatal accidents, pediatric calls, line-of-duty death). These teams provide defusings, debriefings, and one-on-one support in the aftermath of critical incidents. To find a CISM team near you, you can use the ICISF Team Directory search tool. (Your service director or county Emergency Management may also have CISM contacts.) Cost: Free – CISM interventions are typically provided as a service to first responder agencies.

• Agency Peer Support & Chaplaincy: Many EMS agencies, fire departments, and police departments now have internal peer support teams or chaplains. These are colleagues trained to provide emotional support and practical resources. If your department offers a peer support program or an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), you can access free and confidential counseling through those channels as well. For example, in a 2023 survey of WI first responders, 165 respondents had used their department’s EAP and the majority found it helpful. Cost: Usually free for a limited number of sessions (if your employer provides it). Don’t hesitate to ask your HR or supervisor (confidentially) what support is available internally.

Counseling & Treatment Services (Professionals with First Responder Expertise)

The following are professional therapy services, treatment programs, and clinics that specialize in first responder mental health. These may be in-person in Wisconsin/the Midwest or available via telehealth. (Costs vary; many accept insurance, and some offer sliding scale or have grant funding. Always inquire about cost and insurance when contacting.)

• Rogers Behavioral Health – Fire Watch Program (Virtual): Rogers BH (a Wisconsin-based behavioral health system) offers “Fire Watch,” a virtual outpatient treatment program exclusively for veterans and first responders in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Florida. This telehealth program was designed by veterans and first responders to address trauma, PTSD, moral injury, depression, anxiety, and other issues common in public safety work. Participants meet in group and individual therapy sessions via secure video with clinicians who understand first responder experiences. Scheduling is flexible to accommodate shift work. Cost: Covered by insurance like any outpatient program (Rogers also has financial assistance for those who qualify). For a free screening, call 833-308-5887.

• First Responders Psychological Services, LLC (Waukesha, WI): A counseling practice developed by and for first responders. Their team includes providers with first-hand experience in first responder roles, aiming to reduce barriers and stigma around seeking help. They offer therapy for individuals and families, psychological evaluations, and critical incident response. They often partner directly with departments, but also see private clients. They emphasize culturally competent care where clinicians “understand…the unique complexities that the first responder culture faces.”. Cost: Accepts insurance and private pay (if your department has a contract, services might be covered – check with your employer). They also operate a 24/7 “Critical Response Line” at 262-281-4502 for acute incidents.

• Lakeside Counseling Center – Therapy for First Responders (Madison & Eau Claire, WI): Lakeside Counseling has a dedicated program for first responders, offering both in-person counseling in Madison and Eau Claire and statewide telehealth for those elsewhere. They specialize in trauma-focused therapies like EMDR to help with PTSD, anxiety, insomnia, and other stress-related issues common in EMS. Their team includes clinicians (e.g. Katie Plotz, Megan Kaiser, Jennie Bowyer) who specialize in treating first responders. They understand the cumulative stress and “dark humor” of the job and provide a confidential, judgment-free space. Cost: Accepts most major insurance; self-pay is also available. Telehealth means you can attend on a smartphone or computer from anywhere.

• Reflections Mental Health – First Responder & Helping Professional Therapy (Madison, WI): Reflections (based in Madison) has clinicians with first responder backgrounds or family connections, ensuring they “get” the lifestyle and challenges of EMS, fire, law enforcement, etc.. They provide evidence-based therapies (EMDR, CBT, etc.) for trauma, anxiety, and burnout. Their approach is very down-to-earth: “our therapists aren’t afraid of dark humor or heavy topics” and know that “normal might look different to you”. They serve individuals and families; also experienced with military/veteran issues. Cost: Accepts insurance (they are a DHS 35 certified clinic). Without insurance, out-of-pocket arrangements can be made.

• Rosecrance Resilience Program (Illinois/Wisconsin): Rosecrance Health Network offers the “Resilience” program for first responders and frontline professionals in high-stress jobs. This includes residential treatment as well as intensive outpatient care for those dealing with PTSD, substance use, depression, or anxiety related to the job. Their program in Rockford, IL (not far from the WI state line) features peer support, trauma-focused therapy, and even sober living housing tailored for first responders. Staff are trained in first responder culture, and treatment plans build stress management and resilience skills so you can return to service healthier. Cost: Accepts private insurance and has financial counselors to help navigate coverage (Rosecrance is a non-profit provider). They have locations in northern Illinois and a presence in Madison, WI. Call (866) 330-8729 for intake.

• Perspectives Therapy – Iron Star Peer Support Program (Green Bay, WI):
  Iron Star is a peer-led support and resiliency program developed by and for Fire/EMS, dispatch, DNR, veterans, and their families. Operated through Perspectives Therapy, it offers confidential, culture-driven support embedded in departments—not traditional therapy or EAP. Peer supporters (with responder backgrounds) provide check-ins, one-on-one support, on-scene or virtual presence, and help connecting to further resources. Based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, Iron Star treats trauma like an injury, not a disorder. Cost: Peer support is free. Therapy services through Perspectives may be billed to insurance. Contact: 920-772-8711 

• First Responder Wellness by Simple Recovery (Newport Beach, CA & Online): A nationally recognized treatment program exclusively for first responders (fire, EMS, law enforcement, dispatch, etc.). They provide a full continuum from detox and residential treatment in California to online intensive outpatient (IOP) programs that you can attend via telehealth. All clients are first responders, and the staff is culturally competent (many are veterans or former first responders). They treat PTSD, occupational trauma, addiction, and related mental health issues with evidence-based therapies in a peer-supported environment. Cost: Private pay or insurance (they are in-network with some plans). They also have partnerships (e.g., with some unions or departments). 24/7 admissions line: 888-443-4898.

• Help For Heroes Program (Multiple States): Help For Heroes® is a specialized inpatient program operated by select hospitals (e.g. in IL, TX, AZ, PA, etc.) under Lifepoint. It serves active duty and retired military, veterans, first responders, and other frontline professionals who need mental health or substance abuse treatment in a supportive setting. They have dedicated units in about 11 facilities across 7 states. The treatment often involves short-term intensive care addressing PTSD, addiction, and other behavioral health issues with peers who have similar backgrounds. Cost: Accepts insurance/VA benefits; a 24/7 national intake line (1-800- <<number>>) is available for placements. (If interested, see their website for current locations and contacts.)

• IAFF Center of Excellence (Maryland): A residential behavioral health treatment center exclusively for IAFF members (firefighters and paramedics). The IAFF Center of Excellence provides a 30- to 45-day program with clinicians who understand firefighter/EMS trauma and culture. They treat PTSD, substance use, depression, and other diagnoses through evidence-based therapies, peer support, and wellness activities. Cost: Accepts insurance (including many union plans); scholarships or union assistance may be available. You must be an IAFF member to attend. (Located in Upper Marlboro, MD, but accepts members from across the country.)

• Warriors’ Ascent (Kansas City, MO): A free 5-day wellness retreat for military veterans and first responders suffering from the “moral injuries” and trauma of their service. Warriors’ Ascent focuses on holistic healing (mind, body, spirit) through curriculum-based group work, meditation, yoga, and other integrative therapies. They hold separate sessions for men and women. Cost: Free to accepted participants (funded by donations). Travel to Kansas City not included, but lodging, meals, and program are covered. This can be a great option for those looking for a retreat experience in the Midwest.

If you are seeking local outpatient therapy: Beyond the examples above, there are licensed therapists across Wisconsin that specialize in treating first responders. You can search for providers with terms like “first responder counselor” or use filters on directories (Psychology Today, etc.) to find counselors experienced with trauma and EMS. The NVFC Directory of Behavioral Health Professionals is one such resource listing clinicians by state who have self-identified as experienced with firefighter/EMS clients. Another is the ResponderStrong directory (via All Clear Foundation) which lists culturally competent therapists state-by-state. It’s important you find a therapist who makes you feel understood – don’t hesitate to ask if they have worked with first responders or have relevant training.

Substance Abuse & Addiction Support

First responders face higher rates of substance use, particularly alcohol, as a coping mechanism for stress. The following resources can help with alcohol or drug abuse recovery:

• NIAAA Alcohol Treatment Navigator: An online tool from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism that helps you find quality evidence-based treatment for alcohol use disorder. It guides you on what to look for in a program or provider and lets you search for local services. (Free to use.)

• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): A worldwide fellowship for people who want to stop drinking. AA offers free peer-led support meetings (in-person and online) across Wisconsin and almost everywhere. The only requirement for membership is a desire to quit drinking. Many first responders have found solace in AA’s confidential group setting. (Cost: Free; donations are optional.) Find local meetings at aa.org .

• Narcotics Anonymous (NA): Similar to AA but for those recovering from drug use. NA meetings are free and open to anyone seeking to live drug-free. First responders who struggle with prescription medications, stimulants, or other substances can attend NA for support and community. Find meetings via na.org.

• SMART Recovery: A non-12-step alternative, SMART Recovery offers free science-based mutual aid meetings for any addictive behavior (alcohol or drugs). SMART focuses on building coping skills and self-reliance. Meetings are available online and in-person; open to all, including family & friends. (Free.)

• SAMHSA Behavioral Health Treatment Locator: A comprehensive federal database of treatment facilities for substance use and mental health disorders. You can search by zip code for anything from detox centers and rehab programs to outpatient counseling and opioid treatment programs. This includes listings for Wisconsin and the Midwest. (Free to search.)

• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Provider Locators: If you’re seeking treatment for opioid addiction (pain pills, heroin, etc.) or alcohol dependence, MAT can be very effective. You can find specialized providers through: SAMHSA’s Buprenorphine Practitioner Locator (for Suboxone and other buprenorphine treatments), and the Vivitrol Provider Locator (for naltrexone injections). These tools help you find doctors or clinics near you authorized to prescribe these medications. Your primary care physician may also help with MAT referrals.

• American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) Physician Finder: ASAM’s directory can help you locate addiction medicine specialists in Wisconsin. These physicians are experts in treating substance use disorders and can tailor a treatment plan (which might include counseling, medications, and support groups). Search the ASAM locator by city/state on their website.

• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP): Don’t forget that many EAPs also provide help for substance abuse. They can often arrange a limited number of counseling sessions or refer you to appropriate treatment, all confidentially. As noted earlier, a good proportion of first responders who utilized their EAP found it helpful for getting into treatment. If you’re concerned about job repercussions, remember that contacting an EAP is private and cannot be reported to your supervisors.

• Peer Support Groups for Recovery: Besides AA/NA/SMART, there are other groups like Celebrate Recovery (faith-based) or specialized first responder recovery groups in some areas. For example, the NVFC’s Share The Load program provides an online community for first responders in recovery. Leaning on peers who understand the job can make a big difference in maintaining sobriety.

If you need help navigating options or deciding what level of care you need (detox, inpatient rehab, outpatient, etc.), you can call the SAMHSA Helpline (1-800-662-4357) or speak to a peer on Safe Call Now or Share the Load. They can guide you without judgment. Recovery is absolutely possible, and asking for help is a sign of strength.

Financial Wellness & Debt Management

Financial stress can be a significant burden on mental health. First responders may face unique challenges such as managing overtime changes, medical bills, or supporting a family on modest salaries. The following resources can assist with debt, budgeting, and financial planning:

• Consumer Credit Counseling Services (CCCS): These are nonprofit agencies (often known as CCCS) that help individuals find workable solutions to financial problems. CCCS agencies provide services like financial education, budgeting assistance, and formal Debt Management Plans (DMPs) to consolidate and pay down debt. Counselors will review your debts and income, then negotiate with creditors to reduce interest or payments under a DMP. Sessions are confidential. Cost: Free for initial counseling; DMPs have low monthly fees. Find a reputable local agency via the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) or [Credit.org’s CCCS locator].

• Personal Financial Coaching for First Responders: Some organizations and credit unions offer free financial coaching to first responders. For example, the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Financial Corporation has tools and webinars on retirement and budgeting for fire/EMS. Similarly, police/fire credit unions often have financial literacy programs. Check if any Wisconsin public safety associations offer money management workshops or referrals. (No direct cost; part of membership or community outreach.)

• Emergency Grants and Assistance: If you are facing a one-time financial crisis (large medical expense, funeral, disaster loss, etc.), there may be grants or relief funds available. The Gary Sinise Foundation’s First Responders Outreach provides grants up to $50,000 to first responders and their families for equipment, training, and emergency financial needs (especially line-of-duty injury related). Additionally, WEMA/WEMSA or other charities might have benevolent funds – it’s worth inquiring through your association. Cost: Free money if approved (grant applications required).

• Deferred Compensation & Retirement Plan Resources: Though not exactly “debt” help, remember that your mental wellness can improve with long-term financial security. Wisconsin EMS workers who have access to Wisconsin Deferred Compensation (457 plans) or pension plans can get free consultations about managing those. This can relieve stress about the future. Many plans have helplines or advisors at no cost to participants.

• Financial Wellness Apps & Tools: Simple tools like Mint, You Need A Budget (YNAB), or Dave Ramsey’s EveryDollar app can help you get a handle on spending and debt. Some are free; some have small fees. Tracking finances can reduce anxiety by making a clear plan. If debt feels overwhelming, consider using a debt snowball or debt avalanche method – numerous free calculators online can show you how fast you could be debt-free with a given strategy.

Remember: Just as with mental health, asking for help with financial problems is okay. Organizations like CCCS or NFCC-member agencies exist to help, not judge. With a solid plan (and perhaps a DMP negotiating lower interest rates), many people dig out of debt and regain peace of mind. Financial stress is common in our field (especially if injuries or PTSD have led to missed work), so you’re not alone in seeking these services.

Veteran-Focused Resources for First Responders

Many EMS providers are military veterans or current Guard/Reserve members, and some struggles can be tied into that service. Here are resources specifically geared toward veterans, which may be useful to veteran first responders or their families:

• PTSD Foundation of America – Warrior Groups: The PTSD Foundation runs “Warrior Groups,” which are peer support groups and weekly fellowships for combat veterans and their families dealing with the invisible wounds of war. Meetings (in-person and virtual) allow veterans to share experiences, find healing, and support each other in overcoming PTSD. They also have a crisis line for veterans (877-717-PTSD). Cost: Free. This can be a great supplement for a veteran first responder who wants camaraderie with others who have seen combat.

• VA National Center for PTSD: The VA’s National Center for PTSD is an authoritative resource for understanding and treating PTSD. Their website offers extensive educational materials, self-help tools (like the PTSD Coach mobile app), and information on evidence-based treatments. While it’s not a direct counseling service, it guides veterans (and anyone) on how to get help for PTSD. Cost: Free information. (For treatment, consider contacting the Milwaukee VA or Madison VA PTSD Clinical Team; as a veteran you may be eligible for care.)

• Veterans Crisis Line: As mentioned, 988 then Press 1 will connect to the Veterans Crisis Line (24/7). This is staffed by mental health professionals trained in veteran-specific issues, and many are veterans themselves. You can also text 838255 or chat online. They can activate emergency rescue if needed or simply talk you through a rough moment and connect you to VA resources (free and confidential).

• Give An Hour (Military & Veterans): Give An Hour is a national nonprofit that provides free mental health counseling to post-9/11 veterans, active duty, National Guard/Reserve, and their families. They have a network of volunteer licensed therapists who donate an hour per week to clients. You can search for providers in Wisconsin or nationwide on their site and self-refer by contacting a therapist directly. This is a way to get counseling outside the VA system at no cost.

• Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) – Mental Health Programs: WWP offers no-cost programs for eligible post-9/11 veterans, focusing on PTSD, combat stress, and TBI. One signature initiative is the Warrior Care Network, which partners with academic medical centers (like Rush in Chicago and Emory in Atlanta) to provide intensive outpatient PTSD programs to veterans from around the country, free of charge. These 2-3 week programs include therapy, stress management skills, and group support. WWP also has outpatient clinics, therapeutic retreats (Project Odyssey), and a 24/7 Combat Stress Recovery hotline. If you’re a veteran first responder struggling with severe PTSD, WWP’s resources could complement what’s offered for first responders. Cost: Free (funded by donors).

• Vet Centers: While not explicitly in the user’s request, it’s worth noting: Vet Centers (like those in Madison, Milwaukee, and across WI) are VA-affiliated but community-based counseling centers for combat veterans and trauma survivors (including MST). They provide free counseling for war zone vets and their families – completely confidential and separate from the VA hospital records. Many first responder veterans find Vet Centers less formal and more comfortable. Services include individual and group counseling for PTSD, readjustment issues, and even grief counseling for Gold Star families. Cost: Free if eligibility criteria are met (combat theater or related service).

In addition to these, veteran EMS providers can of course utilize any veteran resources such as the VA’s mental health clinics, Military OneSource (if still active or reserve), or community veteran organizations. Sometimes veteran-centric programs can address issues like moral injury or combat trauma that intertwine with the stresses of EMS work. Don’t hesitate to reach out to both sets of resources – those for first responders and those for veterans – as needed.

Last Updated: March 2nd, 2026. Cost and availability are always changing so ensure that