Mental Health Support & Therapy for First Responders

First responders and front-line workers face tremendous challenges on the job, often resulting in mental health issues. Research from the University of Regina shows that first responders experience Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Critical Incident Stress at two times the rate versus the general population. It is estimated that over 70,000 Canadian first responders have experienced PTSD in their lifetimes.

Laura Gatien & Associates has a passion for improving the mental health of first responders and removing the barriers and stigma that go along with seeking mental health support. We can help you...

  • make sense of your experiences

  • reduce emotional reactivity to painful memories. 

  • increase understanding of PTSD symptoms and how to manage them

  • improve your quality of life

Behind the badge, there is you, a human who struggles, because ALL humans struggle sometimes. We recognize the hard work you put into caring for others. Let us help you take care of yourself too.

We offer in-person therapy for first responders and military personnel in Saint John and Fredericton as well as online therapy.

Our Approach

We specialize in trauma-informed therapy for first responders including paramedics, firefighters, police officers, military and other emergency personnel. Our experienced team understands the unique challenges you face, and we offer practical tools and evidence-based approaches to help you manage stress, anxiety, and trauma. Whether you’re experiencing PTSD, burnout, or simply need extra support, we’re here to help you regain control and rediscover joy in life.

Our therapy sessions provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where you can share openly, knowing that your experiences are honoured. Using proven techniques like EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness, we help you process trauma and build resilience. You are always in control of your therapy, working at your own pace, and can choose the frequency and length to best suit your needs. How often you attend sessions is discussed collaboratively and is based on your needs and schedule. 

How much does therapy cost? 

Sessions with a registered social worker (RSW) or licensed counselling therapist (LCT) are $150 for 50 minutes. 

Is therapy covered by insurance?

Our counselling fees are not covered by Medicare but are covered by many extended health insurance plans. We partner with and offer first billing to Worksafe, Veterans Affairs, Veteran Farmer, Canadian Armed forces and other agencies that exist to support first responders. 

Our clinic has therapists who are either registered social workers (RSW) or Licensed Counselling Therapists (LCT).

You must check your specific plan for what you have coverage for, as coverage is different for each policy. Verify that your plan covers counselling/therapy with a MSW, RSW or LCT. Your insurance may state you have coverage for clinical counsellor or psychotherapist, which would cover LCT or social worker. 

We also offer direct billing with many different insurance companies, which allows you to keep more money in your pocket. Note: Insurance companies do not cover late cancels and no show fees.

About Laura Gatien & Associates

At Laura Gatien & Associates, we take a proactive and collaborative approach to mental health treatment, offering clients access a diverse team of professionals with various expertise and specialties who learn from and can refer to one another. We take a holistic approach to treatment and believe everything makes perfect sense in the context of your life experiences.

Quality care is very important to us as a team, and we ensure this is upheld through regular clinical meetings, ongoing professional development and training opportunities, as well as using evidence-based frameworks. This helps us provide you with the best care for your individual needs so you can make progress sooner.

Our clients benefit from shared resources that exist within a team and the peace of mind that they are not just working with an individual, but are part of a broader mental health community learning and growing together.

We prioritize accessibility and availability of services, providing limited wait times and evening appointments to accommodate diverse schedules. We will regularly ask for feedback on your experience here so we can continue to improve.

Our Therapists

  • “My therapist was very helpful, kind, and skilled at helping me work through my trauma and issues.”

  • “I feel like I have finally become myself again after the trauma I went through. I feel supported and judgement free. Every time I’m in I am greeted with a smile.”

  • “Everyone has been so helpful and also accommodating in getting me set up with the things I need for my mental health support.”

  • “Since visiting Laura Gatien and Associates, my life has substantially improved. My experience with all the staff working there has been exceptional; as a client, I feel respected, valued, and most importantly, supported.”

From The Blog

Ready to Put Yourself First?

We are accepting new clients for first responders therapy in Fredericton, Saint John and across New Brunswick. You give so much to help others. Let us be here for you.

Crisis resources

Dial 9-8-8 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)

1-800-SUICIDE 1-800-784-2433 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)

310-Mental Health Support 310-6789 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)