First Responders Rehab

First responders work long hours, give emotionally every day, and often witness or experience traumatic events on the job. New Found Life offers first responders rehab programs that provide tailored care plans designed specifically for the needs of first responders with substance use disorder (SUD) or dual diagnosis. 

Addiction Treatment for First Responders Starts With Help, Hope, and Healing

First responder addiction treatment offers hope by helping professionals regain control of their lives. Rehabilitation programs give people the tools they need to heal from the effects of addiction, trauma, and co-occurring disorders. 

First responders include: 

  • Police officers
  • Paramedics 
  • Emergency medical services (EMS) technician 
  • Corrections officer

First responders face many stressors not experienced by the general population. An addiction treatment program addresses mental health issues, trauma, and other underlying causes of SUD. New Found Life uses evidence-based and holistic therapies to address mental health disorders. Personalized care plans and a trauma-informed approach to care help first responders heal and move forward in their recovery journey. 

Addiction and Mental Health Treatment Tailored to Law Enforcement, EMTs, Firefighters & Corrections Officers

First responders have unique needs during substance abuse treatment. Law enforcement, firefighters, corrections officers, paramedics, and other professionals usually have to report their treatment and continued sobriety to a higher authority responsible for determining how it will impact their credentials, career, and any legal issues caused by the substance abuse. The recovery center at New Found Life considers these factors and helps clients remain compliant with workplace or legal requirements of treatment. 

Some of the treatment programs and services include: 

  • Referrals to medical detox
  • Residential treatment 
  • Outpatient treatment 
  • Individual and group therapy sessions 
  • Support groups, including 12-Step immersion 

Treatment options allow clients to choose the programs and services that best meet their unique needs. Rehabilitation improves overall well-being and prepares people for lasting sobriety. 

Recovery That Honors the Sacrifices You’ve Made

People who dedicate their lives to helping others deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. New Found Life acknowledges the sacrifices first responders have made. Individual and group therapy give people a new perspective on their experiences and the positive impacts they have had on the lives of others. First responders across Southern California trust the experts at New Found Life to help them regain control of their health and future using tailored treatment programs and trauma-specific care. 

A Specialized First Responder Treatment Program That Understands the Job

The dedicated addiction and mental health professionals at New Found Life understand the realities of how first responder careers impact mental health and stress levels. Clinicians have experience treating individuals from a variety of high-stress careers that increase the risk of SUD and relapse. Treatment programs must address the active disorders and root causes of addiction to ensure clients have the tools to successfully maintain sobriety long-term. 

Many first responders have co-occurring conditions developed during the job, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depressive disorder (MDD), or generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Alcohol addiction and drug rehab programs use multiple therapeutic modalities to address these co-occurring conditions and any underlying issues caused by career stressors. 

Unique Challenges Faced by First Responders — And Why They Need Unique Solutions

First responders are more likely to experience trauma and prolonged stress on the job. Many people in healthcare, law enforcement, and other first responder careers face barriers to treatment for mental health issues and addiction. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “Research has shown that the types of stressful work conditions first responders often experience can contribute to the development of new mental health conditions or exacerbate pre-existing mental health conditions.” 

Many first responders are unaware of how severely the mental health side effects of job stress may impact their personal or professional lives. The toll of traumatic events and stressful situations may lead to PTSD, depression, and substance abuse. Early intervention and treatment provide the best outcomes. New Found Life educates first responders, families, and communities on the realities of recovery from SUD or dual diagnosis. 

Peer Support and Trauma-Informed Care in a Community That Gets It

Peer support is essential for the recovery process. New Found Life offers people access to a trauma-informed community of individuals with similar life experiences. First responders undergo treatment alongside individuals from law enforcement, healthcare, and other high-stress careers. Being able to share experiences and speak openly about trauma can help people heal and move forward in their recovery. 

What We Treat in Our First Responders Rehab Program

Some of the conditions treated at New Found Life include: 

  • Substance use disorders, such as alcohol, opioids, and prescription drugs 
  • Co-occurring mental health conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression
  • Behavioral health 
  • Burnout
  • Emotional numbing from the line of duty

First responders may have multiple forms of addiction or co-occurring mental health issues requiring simultaneous treatment. The clinical team uses comprehensive assessments and screening tools to ensure clients receive the best support to meet their specific needs and recovery goals. 

Levels of Care for First Responders: Structured, Step-Down Recovery

Most people in rehabilitation go through a continuum of care that involves a step-down process. Alcohol and drug rehab options at New Found Life include inpatient residential treatment with peer support. The comprehensive services and outcome-oriented curriculum help people gain a sense of purpose and hope for the future. 

The client generally transitions from residential programs to an intensive outpatient program (IOP) or outpatient services for long-term care. The treatment center prepares each client for lasting recovery by using a treatment plan that addresses their mental health concerns and any side effects of SUD. Outpatient services may also include referrals to outside resources or community-based services, including self-help groups. 

Family Therapy, Alumni Groups, and Relapse Prevention Planning

New Found Life uses family therapy, alumni groups, and prevention planning to ensure clients feel confident in their ability to maintain sobriety before returning to work or home. The ongoing support and access to professional services can increase clients’ confidence, self-awareness, and self-esteem. Clinicians empower clients by providing them with the tools to create a safe environment for recovery after structural care. 

Coordination With Medical Detox and Ongoing Case Management

The clinical team coordinates with medical detox programs, offering referrals to individuals who need detoxification services before transitioning to New Found Life for treatment. Clients benefit from the case management and consistent support provided by the care team during detox. The continued contact creates a smooth transition into residential or outpatient programs. 

Evidence-Based and Compassionate Clinical Treatment

The dedicated clinicians at New Found Life use the following evidence-based treatments: 

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
  • Group therapy and support groups 

12-Step immersion also offers another layer of support and guidance to first responders in early recovery. 

Individual Therapy With Licensed Clinicians Who Understand Mental Health in First Responders

The clinical team understands the mental health challenges faced by first responders. Experts at New Found Life have decades of combined experience treating individuals from all backgrounds. The specialized treatment plans provided to first responders respect their role and responsibilities within the community. 

Addressing the Whole Person: Wellness, Purpose, and Peer Support

New Found Life addresses the whole person and not only the disease of addiction. Substance abuse does not start in a vacuum. Instigating factors contribute to a person developing maladaptive coping mechanisms and behaviors. By addressing the whole person, the clinical team acknowledges the factors that caused a person to abuse alcohol or drugs. 

Clinicians use peer support, community engagement, and evidence-based therapies to heal the mind, body, and soul. Holistic treatment provides hope for the future by reducing the risk of relapse and improving overall well-being. 

Mental Health, Spirituality, and Holistic Approaches to Wellness

Some of the alternative holistic therapies and techniques used to treat SUD include:

  • Developing healthy routines 
  • Meditation 
  • Mindfulness-based practices 
  • Physical fitness through low-stress activities 
  • Emotional resilience 

 

New Found Life also offers peer support from other first responders in recovery. Mutual empowerment and support within a group that shares similar traumas can have a profound positive effect on mental health. 

Skills for Life Beyond the Badge or Uniform

Treatment programs teach essential life skills that people can use to reduce stress on and off the job. First responders benefit from expanding their skills to include additional coping strategies. Rehabilitation also helps clients create a strong support network they can rely on after completing treatment. 

Some examples of skills taught in therapy include: 

  • Effective communication 
  • Conflict resolution 
  • Emotion regulation 
  • Creative problem-solving 
  • Mindfulness 
  • Relaxation techniques 
  • Crisis management strategies
  • Relapse prevention 

These critical skills prepare clients to face challenges in recovery by giving them healthy ways to manage stress and anxiety.

Why Choose New Found Life for First Responder Mental Health and Addiction Treatment

New Found Life offers gender-specific, ethical care built on the principles of 12-Step recovery. The family-run program has over 30 years of experience treating first responders and other individuals with high-stress careers. Every level of care focuses on preparing clients for lasting recovery by promoting healthy behaviors and routines. 

Trusted by Healthcare Professionals and First Responders Alike

First responders trust New Found Life to provide them with a comprehensive, tailored treatment experience that addresses the root causes of addiction. Healthcare professionals refer their colleagues to the treatment facility for help with SUD or dual diagnosis. The clinical team treats first responders with the respect and compassion they deserve. Clinicians consider all factors during treatment and aftercare planning to reduce the risk of relapse and create a smooth transition to aftercare. 

Small, Private Rehab Center Focused on Long-Term Recovery and Lasting Wellness

New Found Life is a small, focused rehab center that focuses on lasting wellness. The clinical team strives to ensure each client feels comfortable and safe returning home or back to work after completing treatment. Clients have a more individualized experience due to the low client-to-clinician ratio, allowing the clinical team to take more time with each client. Each clinician can dedicate more time and resources to clients, improving outcomes. 

Preparing for the future in detail reduces the risk of relapse by ensuring individuals are aware of the resources available to them for overcoming challenges in recovery. 

FAQs About First Responder Addiction and Mental Health Treatment

Below are some frequently asked questions about addiction treatment for first responders at New Found Life. 

What makes first responder rehab different from general rehab centers?

Most typical rehab centers do not have clinicians experienced in treating first responders and the traumas they encounter on a regular basis. New Found Life understands the unique challenges experienced by first responders and can offer tailored treatment options. 

Can I keep my job while in treatment?

Individuals with SUD can attend outpatient treatment while continuing to work in a limited capacity. However, for the best results, clients benefit from taking time off work to focus entirely on their mental health and recovery journey. 

Do you work with corrections officers and EMTs, too?

New Found Life offers high-quality addiction and mental health treatment to anyone seeking help for their condition, regardless of background or career. The clinical team will personalize treatment plans to help first responders heal from the effects of trauma and other underlying issues impacting mental health and sobriety. Corrections officers and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) benefit from participating in the treatment programs at New Found Life. 

Is detox included in the program?

Detox is not offered on-site. However, the care team at New Found Life does facilitate the detox process by connecting people with local detox programs that meet their needs. Case managers continue to support and monitor individuals until they complete detox and can transfer to New Found Life for treatment. 

What happens after I complete the program?

New Found Life offers alumni support and has a thriving community of local sober individuals who choose to play a role in helping others through early recovery. Clients can take advantage of local community events and may receive regular check-ins for several weeks after completing treatment. Every case is unique. The clinical team collaborates closely with clients to create a detailed aftercare plan and relapse prevention strategies to reduce the risk of relapse. 

First responders experience trauma and stress on the job that can lead to addiction or mental health disorders. New Found Life treats first responders using evidence-based and holistic therapies. To learn more, call us today at (562) 434-4060.