Empower · Change · Live Well

First Responder IOP · Glastonbury, CT · Now enrolling

First Responder Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

Designed by first responders, for first responders.

★★★★★ 4.8 · 368 Google reviews · “best IOP in the area”
  • Designed by first responders, for first responders
  • For police, fire, EMS, corrections & 9-1-1 dispatch — current or retired
  • Mon–Thu · 9 AM–12 PM · ~8 weeks · safe & confidential
  • CT may compensate you directly during day treatment · FMLA help

Medically reviewed by Christopher Patenaude, PA

Confidential intake

A safe space built for first responders. Free, confidential insurance check.

Our clinicians, featured across Connecticut

  • Hartford Courant
  • Hartford Business Journal
  • WFSB Eyewitness News 3
  • FOX61
  • NBC Connecticut
  • WOUB Public Media
  • Hartford Courant
  • Hartford Business Journal
  • WFSB Eyewitness News 3
  • FOX61
  • NBC Connecticut
  • WOUB Public Media
  • Hartford Courant
  • Hartford Business Journal
  • WFSB Eyewitness News 3
  • FOX61
  • NBC Connecticut
  • WOUB Public Media
First responders standing together — police, fire & EMS

By those who serve, for those who serve

Specialized care for those who answer the call

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.

A first responder working through stress and trauma

Flexible, compassionate, comprehensive

How the program works

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

  • Trauma processing: Discussing specific incidents that have had a significant emotional impact.
  • Stress management: Techniques for managing acute and chronic stress in high-pressure situations.
  • Work-life balance: Strategies for protecting your well-being alongside demanding job responsibilities.
  • Peer support: Building resilience through shared stories and mutual support.

It takes a toll

Why first responder mental health matters

The stress of emergencies, trauma, and high-pressure situations often leads to PTSD, anxiety, and depression. A culture of openness makes all the difference.

1

Exposure to trauma. Regular exposure to traumatic events leads to cumulative stress and emotional fatigue.

2

Stigma. Many fear that seeking help will be seen as weakness or could affect their career.

3

Support systems. Access to counseling and peer support is vital for coping and resilience.

4

Self-care. Mindfulness, physical activity, and hobbies help manage stress.

5

Education & training. Learning the signs of distress — in yourself and colleagues — saves careers and lives.

Make the right choice

Is this program right for you?

For current or retired police officers, firefighters, EMS professionals, corrections officers, and 9-1-1 dispatchers. These experiences can lead to:

Burnout

Emotional exhaustion, depersonalization (a cynical attitude toward the job and the people you serve), and a reduced sense of personal accomplishment.

Acute stress reactions

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.

PTSI — Post-Traumatic Stress Injury

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

A multimodal treatment approach

We blend clinical therapy with creative and relational approaches to promote true mind–body healing.

Healing beyond words

Experiential therapies help you explore emotions and process trauma in non-verbal, embodied ways — through movement, creative expression, and connection with therapy animals.

Optional family involvement

Healing often means rebuilding relationships. We offer family sessions and psychoeducation to foster understanding and support at home.

A holistic care team

Clinicians, psychiatric providers, and experiential therapists collaborate on a plan aligned with your values, goals, and needs.

Foundational DBT & CBT skills

Build essential tools in mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and cognitive restructuring.

Modalities used

Group therapy grounded in DBT & CBT
Individual therapy for personalized support
Optional medication management & psychiatric care
Psychoeducation

Plus medication management & experiential therapies.

Post-traumatic growth

With the right support, first responders can move beyond survival toward growth — reclaiming the nervous system and finding:

  • Greater appreciation of life
  • Improved relationships
  • Renewed strength & purpose
  • New interests & outlooks
  • Reduced anxiety, depression & emotional overwhelm
  • Reduced hypervigilance & distressing memories
  • Decreased reliance on substances or harmful behaviors

Built by people who understand

Personal, proven, and built from the ground up

Our program was created by people who understand exactly what you face.

Christopher Patenaude, PA

Christopher Patenaude, PA

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.

Sherrie Gaudet, LCSW, LADC

Sherrie Gaudet, LCSW, LADC

Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Addiction Counselor

Sherrie is a holistic, integrative LCSW and Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor with more than 23 years of experience across community mental health, correctional settings, and outpatient care. She specializes in trauma, anxiety, depression, and complex co-occurring concerns, blending CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care with a grounded, strength-based approach.

Katrin Moskowitz, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP

Katrin Moskowitz, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP

Medication Management

Dr. Katrin “Kat” Moskowitz is a dual board-certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience across general medicine and mental health. She provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management for anxiety, mood, and trauma-related conditions with a collaborative, whole-health approach.

Shawn Curtis, Psy.D.

Shawn Curtis, Psy.D.

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Shawn Curtis is a licensed clinical psychologist providing evidence-based psychotherapy and psychological assessment for adults. He integrates CBT, ACT, DBT-informed interventions, and trauma-informed care, with experience supporting trauma-related concerns, severe and persistent mental illness, and forensic-related populations.

4.8 ★★★★★ 368 Google reviews

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!”
J Julie Stevens2 months ago
★★★★★
“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.”
J Jake Sted2 months ago
★★★★★
“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.”
S stacey miller3 months ago
★★★★★
“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.”
C Cynthia Askew6 months ago
★★★★★
“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.”
J Joana Yoo10 months ago
★★★★★
“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.”
E Emily Ross8 months ago

Insurance & support

Most major insurance — including Tricare

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.

Aetna
Anthem
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Cigna
Magellan
Optum
TRICARE
UMR
UnitedHealthcare
VA Community Care
ConnectiCare
Harvard Pilgrim

+ most major PPOs

Check your coverage

Free, confidential. Takes 2 minutes — we’ll call you back with a full benefits breakdown.

Care across Connecticut

Our locations

The First Responder IOP is held at 300 Hebron Ave, Glastonbury · plus virtual visits statewide.

Downtown Glastonbury

300 Hebron Ave, Suite 203, Glastonbury, CT 06033

Glastonbury

33 Pratt St, Glastonbury, CT 06033

South Glastonbury

1420 Main St, Suite 124, Glastonbury, CT 06073

West Hartford

1216 Farmington Ave, Suite 301, West Hartford, CT 06107

East Hampton

151 E. High St, East Hampton, CT 06424

Westbrook

70 Essex Road, Westbrook, CT 06498

Reach us at (860) 735-1448 · hhs4help@gmail.com

First Responder IOP — common questions

Who is the First Responder IOP for?+

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.

What’s the schedule?+

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.

Is it confidential?+

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.

How is it paid for?+

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.

What we offer

Conditions & Treatments

Start your healing journey today

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.