We prioritize the mental wellbeing of first responders, acknowledging the importance of their work-life balance.
Our law enforcement officers, firefighters, and paramedics experience traumatic events at an alarming rate and continue to serve willingly for the greater good of their community. While there are mental health services available to the public at large, there are no programs specifically designed to meet the unique needs of the First Responder community.
MHFH is designed to better fill that gap in our community with competent providers who have extensive backgrounds in first responder issues and concerns. Applying holistic care to first responders is critical to ensuring their mental wellbeing on both the work and home fronts. It’s our turn to answer their call and give back to those that give so much to us. MHFH is committed to better meeting this need in an impactful way.
TAMPA BAY PSYCHOLOGY ASSOCIATES
Headed by Dr. Brandy Benson, Lead Psychologist of TBPA, has built her practice from the ground up with a focus on First Responders and their care. Dr. Benson is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in behavioral health and wellness of First Responders. Her clientele ranges from law enforcement, fire rescue, emergency medical personnel, dispatchers, and federal agents. She has worked closely with various police and fire rescue agencies across the State of Florida, as well as agencies under the Department of Justice and the Department of Corrections.
Dr. Benson’s areas of service include crisis intervention, trauma therapy, and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) development and provision. She also specializes in fitness-for-duty, pre-employment, post-incident, and psychological clearance evaluations. Most recently, Dr. Benson has been hired by several agencies to assist with consultation and development of Officer Wellness and Safety programs to support increased utilization of mental health services by employees, as well as overall resiliency and prevention efforts of PTSD, Suicide, and other psychological conditions impacting the First Responding Community. Dr. Benson is also a published author on topics of commercialized sexual exploitation of children with the FBI and police suicide.
Any Pinellas-based first responder can use funding provided by our program by completing the Tampa Bay Psychology Associates intake form. Upon submission, the completed form goes directly to the provider and they will follow up to schedule services.
360 COUNSELING
Headed by Mrs. Cathi Long. Mrs. Long has a 20+ year of service to her country and community, first with the US Navy and the later retiring as a Det. from the Clearwater Police Department. Cathi Long is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist MT4017 specializing in individual, couples, and family therapy. She can uncover true potential while addressing difficult situations of the past, while working together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Cathi has completed level 2 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and uses this in her work. Cathi is also trained in EMDR and can assist you through trauma-based issues.
Any Pinellas-based first responder can use funding provided by our program by completing the 360 Counseling intake form. Upon submission, the completed form goes directly to the provider and they will follow up to schedule services.
To learn how you can become a supporting member of the Mental Health For Heroes program, or for general information, please view the Sponsor Page, or fill out the form below and a team member will be happy to assist.
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