First Responder IOP · Glastonbury, CT · Now enrolling
Designed by first responders, for first responders.
Medically reviewed by Christopher Patenaude, PA
A safe space built for first responders. Free, confidential insurance check.
By those who serve, for those who serve
Our First Responder IOP is designed by first responders, for first responders. We understand the unique challenges of those who serve and protect — and we offer specialized care that supports both your mental health and your career longevity.
In a safe, confidential space, you can process your experiences, learn coping strategies, and grow stronger — personally and professionally. Whether you’re stepping down from inpatient care, need more than weekly therapy, or are navigating work while managing your mental health, seeking support is a mark of strength.
Seeking support for your mental health is a mark of strength and self-awareness.
Flexible, compassionate, comprehensive
Built for first responders 18+, the program runs Monday–Thursday, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM (three hours a day) for about 8 weeks, with ongoing progress evaluations and individualized care updates.
Common topics in group therapy
It takes a toll
The stress of emergencies, trauma, and high-pressure situations often leads to PTSD, anxiety, and depression. A culture of openness makes all the difference.
Exposure to trauma. Regular exposure to traumatic events leads to cumulative stress and emotional fatigue.
Stigma. Many fear that seeking help will be seen as weakness or could affect their career.
Support systems. Access to counseling and peer support is vital for coping and resilience.
Self-care. Mindfulness, physical activity, and hobbies help manage stress.
Education & training. Learning the signs of distress — in yourself and colleagues — saves careers and lives.
Make the right choice
For current or retired police officers, firefighters, EMS professionals, corrections officers, and 9-1-1 dispatchers. These experiences can lead to:
Emotional exhaustion, depersonalization (a cynical attitude toward the job and the people you serve), and a reduced sense of personal accomplishment.
Anger, irritability, sadness, numbness, nightmares, intrusive thoughts — plus physical effects on sleep, appetite, and energy. Usually begins right after a traumatic event and lasts up to a month.
Nightmares, flashbacks, hypervigilance, chronic pain, headaches, irritability, emotional outbursts, sleep disturbance, and trouble concentrating. Can continue from acute stress or surface six+ months later.
More than just talk therapy
We blend clinical therapy with creative and relational approaches to promote true mind–body healing.
Experiential therapies help you explore emotions and process trauma in non-verbal, embodied ways — through movement, creative expression, and connection with therapy animals.
Healing often means rebuilding relationships. We offer family sessions and psychoeducation to foster understanding and support at home.
Clinicians, psychiatric providers, and experiential therapists collaborate on a plan aligned with your values, goals, and needs.
Build essential tools in mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and cognitive restructuring.
Plus medication management & experiential therapies.
With the right support, first responders can move beyond survival toward growth — reclaiming the nervous system and finding:
Built by people who understand
Our program was created by people who understand exactly what you face.
Program Lead · Retired Police Officer
Tim is a retired Bristol Police Officer with 10 years of service, earning honors such as Officer of the Year, Life Saving Awards, Silver Stars, and Distinguished Service. As a Peer Support Specialist, he developed programs to assist fellow officers. While serving, Tim earned his Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, inspired by his firsthand experience with the challenges first responders face and the lack of available support. He now dedicates his career to helping police, fire, dispatch, correction, and EMS professionals and their families heal and thrive.
Counselor · Former Officer & Army Veteran
Victor earned his M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southern CT State University and has dedicated his career to supporting veterans and first responders coping with service-related trauma. His experience spans individual, couples, and group therapy through roles at the New Haven Vet Center, Wheeler Clinic, private practice, and Community Mental Health Affiliates’ Veteran Support Program. As a former police officer and U.S. Army veteran, Victor brings firsthand understanding of the unique challenges these populations face.
Medication Management
Christopher is a board-certified physician assistant specializing in outpatient psychiatry at Hopewell Health Solutions in Glastonbury and West Hartford. A graduate of Bay Path University, he provides compassionate, evidence-based care for adults with conditions such as ADHD, bipolar disorder, and treatment-resistant depression. He values open communication and collaboration, helping patients build confidence and balance in their mental health journey.
Medication Management
Katherine earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Springfield College, completing her clinical training in inpatient psychiatry. With over nine years of experience in community mental health and addiction treatment, she provides compassionate, evidence-based care for mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Katherine integrates medication management with mindfulness and psychotherapy to support holistic healing. She strives to create a safe, open space for clients navigating treatment decisions.
Our IOP patients rate Hopewell Health Solutions “the best in the area”
“From the moment I walked in, the staff made me feel welcome and cared for. The providers are professional, compassionate, and truly take the time to listen. Highly recommend this practice to anyone looking for thoughtful, personalized care!”
“Hopewell’s IOP program made a huge difference in my life. The groups were engaging, and the therapists genuinely took the time to understand each person’s needs. It helped me develop real tools I use every day.”
“They put me on the schedule as a new patient within the same week of calling, which never happens, and made sure my insurance was accepted. The provider and staff were very professional and kind.”
“Rosa Kleinberg is a consummate professional — prepared and on top of her game. She asks the right questions and listens with care and understanding, committed to finding the right balance for a healthy, quality life.”
“Christopher P. was extremely accommodating and took the time to meet with us without making us feel rushed. His calm and respectful demeanor made it easy to open up, and we felt heard and understood. Highly recommended.”
“This is the best therapy place I have ever been to. All the clinicians are amazing and actually care about you. Now I’m doing individual therapy and med management — I highly recommend this place.”
Insurance & support
We accept most major insurance, including Tricare. In some cases, the State of Connecticut may compensate you directly while you’re in day treatment, and many qualify for FMLA or CT Paid Leave. Our team guides you through the process and handles the paperwork.
+ most major PPOs
Free, confidential. Takes 2 minutes — we’ll call you back with a full benefits breakdown.
Care across Connecticut
The First Responder IOP is held at 300 Hebron Ave, Glastonbury · plus virtual visits statewide.
300 Hebron Ave, Suite 203, Glastonbury, CT 06033
33 Pratt St, Glastonbury, CT 06033
1420 Main St, Suite 124, Glastonbury, CT 06073
1216 Farmington Ave, Suite 301, West Hartford, CT 06107
151 E. High St, East Hampton, CT 06424
70 Essex Road, Westbrook, CT 06498
Reach us at (860) 735-1448 · hhs4help@gmail.com
Current or retired first responders 18+ — police officers, firefighters, EMS professionals, corrections officers, and 9-1-1 dispatchers — managing trauma, burnout, acute stress, or PTSI.
Monday–Thursday, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM (three hours a day), for about 8 weeks at 300 Hebron Ave, Glastonbury, with ongoing progress evaluations.
Yes — we provide a safe, confidential space built specifically for first responders, led by clinicians who have served. Seeking support is a mark of strength, not weakness.
We accept most major insurance, including Tricare. In some cases the State of Connecticut may compensate you directly while you’re in day treatment, and many qualify for FMLA or CT Paid Leave — our team handles the paperwork.
Healing is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone. We walk alongside you with evidence-based tools, compassionate support, and space for real transformation — built by people who’ve been where you are.
Not a substitute for inpatient or emergency psychiatric care. If you’re in crisis, call 9-1-1 or go to your nearest emergency room.
