Treatment for Emergency Responders (VIPER and Frontline Resilience Program)

First responder treatment program for substance abuse and trauma

VIPER distinguishes itself by focusing on specialized addiction treatment and trauma therapy tailored for first responders. Mirmont Treatment Center understands the intricacies involved in providing care that not only helps individuals achieve sobriety but also equips them with the tools to maintain their well-being amidst the stressors of their crucial roles.

Symptoms of substance misuse in first responders

Recognizing the signs of substance misuse among first responders is vital. Symptoms can include:

• Increased isolation
• Changes in behavior
• Diminished work performance
• Reliance on substances to cope with stress or trauma

These symptoms not only affect their personal well-being but can also impact their capacity to perform their duties, making early detection and intervention crucial.

Types of substance misuse in first responders

First responders may turn to various substances as a form of self-medication, including alcohol, prescription medications and illegal substances. This misuse is often a coping mechanism for the intense physical and emotional stress they face, highlighting the need for a specialized first responder treatment program that addresses the root causes of addiction and provides comprehensive care.

VIPER provides a safe, supportive vehicle for recovery that addresses issues such as:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Crime scene trauma
• Family conflict
• Work-related stress

VIPER is facilitated by a multidisciplinary team with a broad range of experiences both on the job and in the helping profession. Participants are engaged in a group process apart from other Mirmont Treatment Center patients to work on issues specific to first responders.

Workplace trauma: An underlying contributor to mental health and substance use disorders

First responders experience workplace trauma because of exposure to severe crisis. Historic cultural norms often prevent first responders from addressing trauma, which can lead to substance use and mental health disorders. Mirmont provides expert clinicians specifically equipped at treating first responders’ trauma while also understanding the unique cultural barriers.

Our comprehensive VIPER substance use disorder inpatient and outpatient services encompass:

• Medically monitored detox and stabilization
• Psychiatry, pain management and nutritional consults
• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)/trauma therapy and relapse prevention
• Individualized therapy and treatment plans
• Weekly group sessions addressing workplace trauma, cultural barriers and stigma
• Integrative treatment within the first responder community and non-first responder patients
• Safe boarding arrangements tailored for first responders and Veterans
• Peer-to-peer support
• Expert staff certified trauma specialists and a masters level clinician actively serving in law enforcement

Our VIPER Frontline Resilience Program offers a trauma informed mental health outpatient program designed to offer support, skills, resources and psychoeducation specific to the workplace trauma encountered by emergency responders in a confidential environment where they can:

• Weekly group and individual therapy, including EMDR
• Customized treatment plans focusing on symptom and medication management
• Identification of job-related stressors impacting mental health
• Insight into signs and symptoms of workplace trauma
• Coping skills development and tools for self-regulation
• Peer-to-peer support
• Engage in peer support with other first responders and Veterans

Our outpatient treatment options ensure accessibility for those in need of support around their demanding schedules.

Participants benefit from individual and group therapy as well as holistic practices, such as yoga and meditation for PTSD. Our core treatment modalities include:

• Mindfulness practice
• Body-centered therapies including yoga
• Evidence-based treatments such as eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma
• The Gorski Model of relapse prevention
• Family and marital counseling as needed

Finding the right treatment near you can be challenging, but Mirmont Treatment Center's VIPER and Frontline Resilience programs offer a convenient and effective solution tailored to the unique needs of first responders. Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing the support, skills and resources necessary to navigate the path to recovery.

Your courage deserves compassionate care. VIPER and Frontline Resilience programs are here to help you reclaim your strength, integrity and the ability to serve with valor. Contact us to learn more about how our first responder trauma informed mental health and substance use treatment programs can support you or your loved one in achieving lasting recovery.

The Wall of Valor honors the first responders who have journeyed through Mirmont for their service to our country, and their strength and will to overcome addiction.

Maintain your recovery

Join our weekly VIPER Support Group for Alumni for substance abuse and trauma recovery.

Learn more about support groups