First Responder Rehab Program

The trauma and loss of the job can take a lasting toll on mental health and substance use. Shatterproof FHE Health provides specialized care where the culture of service is understood, so you never have to explain the job first.

CALL: 833-596-3502

VERIFY YOUR COVERAGE

Served in the military? Visit Shatterproof FHE Health Military & Veterans →

The Weight of the Work: How Trauma Affects First Responders

First Responder professions are built around discipline, composure, teamwork and putting others first. Those strengths are everything on the job, but they can also make it harder to recognize when trauma, stress or substance use has become difficult to manage alone.

Firefighters

Firefighters routinely face fires, serious injuries, fatalities, rescues, disasters, long shifts and disrupted sleep. Shatterproof FHE Health treats trauma, stress, sleep problems, substance use and other mental health concerns within the context of the job itself.

Firefighter mental health guide

Police Officers

Police officers make high-stakes decisions in seconds while staying alert to danger for hours at a time. Our program treats the effects of hypervigilance, trauma exposure, chronic stress and substance use in a setting that understands law enforcement culture.

Mental health care for law enforcement

EMS Personnel

EMTs and paramedics move from one crisis to the next, often with little time to process what they’ve just seen. We treat the mental health and substance use effects of repeated exposure to severe injuries, deaths, overdoses and difficult outcomes.

Mental health care for EMTs and paramedics

Military & Veterans

Veteran care now has its own dedicated branch. Shatterproof FHE Health Military & Veterans brings the same specialized, trauma-informed approach to those who served, with support for Tricare and VA Community Care benefits.

Visit Shatterproof FHE Health Military & Veterans

What Is Shatterproof FHE Health?

Shatterproof FHE Health began in 2016 as a direct response to a gap in addiction and mental health treatment. First Responders and Veterans needed a program built around the specific traumas of their service, with clinicians who understood the culture, pressures and experiences that come with the job.

What sets Shatterproof FHE Health apart:

Built specifically for First Responders
Staffed by many clinicians and counselors with First Responder or military backgrounds
Built around the culture, code, pressures and trauma exposure common in these professions

Watch: Inside Shatterproof FHE Health

That foundation still shapes how the program operates today, from who we hire to how we structure treatment. Therapies and technology continue to evolve, but the focus remains the same: care built specifically for people who have spent their careers serving others.

We offer confidential First Responder recovery support for mental health and substance use. Reaching out, asking questions and getting help are all handled privately and securely.

Are you a Veteran or service member?

Veteran care at FHE Health now has its own dedicated branch. Shatterproof FHE Health Military & Veterans is built around military culture and service-related trauma, with help using Tricare and VA Community Care benefits. Explore Shatterproof FHE Health Military & Veterans.

When the Job Follows You Home

First Responders face crises, disasters, violence and loss far more often than most people ever will. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), about 30% of First Responders develop a behavioral health condition such as PTSD or depression, compared with 20% of the general population. Symptoms may build gradually over years of service.

Here’s what those symptoms can look like:

Emotional numbness

Avoidance of reminders

Loss of pleasure

High reactivity

Sleep issues and nightmares

Coping through substance use

				E. H.			

							FHE SHATTERPROOF save my life and my marriage!
read moreread less
 
×E. H.

						FHE SHATTERPROOF save my life and my marriage!
					
				Steve B.			

							I went to the Shatterproof 1st responders program for 28 days on January 29, 2024 after the absolute lowest point in my life. From the intake process to the last minute there, everything was focused on my healing.The staff was beyond incredible and I made lifelong friends.This place literally saved my life.As first responders, we are the helpers. But even then he helpers need help sometimes.2 bedroom apartments, amazing gym, pool, grills, volleyball, cornhole..you keep your phone, you can order DoorDash and instacart. This place was nothing I ever thought a “rehab” would me. My family joked it was a resort instead.Group and individual therapy. Brain mapping and stimulation. Massages. Cupping. EMDR. Integral Breathwork. Physical fitness classes. Acupuncture. Bio chair (soundwaves). All part of your treatment plan.Furthermore, it’s been over a year and I still receive check ins from staff. I receive daily motivational messages.This place doesn’t just take your money and send you on your way. They provide a lifetime of care.If I could give it 10 stars, I would.Thank you to every staff member down at FHE. 💪🏻
read moreread less
 
×Steve B.

						I went to the Shatterproof 1st responders program for 28 days on January 29, 2024 after the absolute lowest point in my life. From the intake process to the last minute there, everything was focused on my healing.The staff was beyond incredible and I made lifelong friends.This place literally saved my life.As first responders, we are the helpers. But even then he helpers need help sometimes.2 bedroom apartments, amazing gym, pool, grills, volleyball, cornhole..you keep your phone, you can order DoorDash and instacart. This place was nothing I ever thought a “rehab” would me. My family joked it was a resort instead.Group and individual therapy. Brain mapping and stimulation. Massages. Cupping. EMDR. Integral Breathwork. Physical fitness classes. Acupuncture. Bio chair (soundwaves). All part of your treatment plan.Furthermore, it’s been over a year and I still receive check ins from staff. I receive daily motivational messages.This place doesn’t just take your money and send you on your way. They provide a lifetime of care.If I could give it 10 stars, I would.Thank you to every staff member down at FHE. 💪🏻
					
				Hyane F.			

							FHE shatterproof is the program for veterans and first responders, and it’s the only reason I didn’t end up killing myself in 2024. I was admitted in mid February and stayed for 36 days.Intake was very easy to follow and the staff were there to help ease me into the process. After a short detox that everyone is required to go through you’re placed in your appropriate location. I was transferred to the shatterproof side about three days after getting there and immediately there is a gym, a pool, group therapy, breathworks and a variety of other treatments.In my time there FHE not just helped me overcome PTSD but gave me the fortitude and skills needed to help myself out of bad times when they do arise.Thank you FHE staff.There is help out there, please don’t hesitate to say you need it, even if it hurts.
read moreread less
 
×Hyane F.

						FHE shatterproof is the program for veterans and first responders, and it’s the only reason I didn’t end up killing myself in 2024. I was admitted in mid February and stayed for 36 days.Intake was very easy to follow and the staff were there to help ease me into the process. After a short detox that everyone is required to go through you’re placed in your appropriate location. I was transferred to the shatterproof side about three days after getting there and immediately there is a gym, a pool, group therapy, breathworks and a variety of other treatments.In my time there FHE not just helped me overcome PTSD but gave me the fortitude and skills needed to help myself out of bad times when they do arise.Thank you FHE staff.There is help out there, please don’t hesitate to say you need it, even if it hurts.
					
				Jim H.			

							I went through the Shatterproof program at FHE in October/November. I cannot stress this enough, IT SAVED MY LIFE. I was hitting insurance snags getting in there, but they persisted and advocated for me and I was finally approved. I never felt like an "inmate" as was my fear. I was treated like a person with respect from intake until the day I discharged. The things they do there are amazing. I can't recommend FHE and more specifically, Shatterproof enough.
read moreread less
 
×Jim H.

						I went through the Shatterproof program at FHE in October/November. I cannot stress this enough, IT SAVED MY LIFE. I was hitting insurance snags getting in there, but they persisted and advocated for me and I was finally approved. I never felt like an "inmate" as was my fear. I was treated like a person with respect from intake until the day I discharged. The things they do there are amazing. I can't recommend FHE and more specifically, Shatterproof enough.
					
				Jeffrey H.			

							God and this place literally saved my life! I cannot say enough about the excellent care I received there. I was apprehensive about spending 35 days there, but ended up being there 50+ days and in the end, I wanted to stay just a few days more.The staff there is friendly and supportive. Some are former patients or have gone through what you may be experiencing now. That really made a difference for me. People like Arthur, Al, Sue, Pete, and so many others made my experience unforgettable. Neuro, EMDR, and Breath Work really helped me. I also did genetic testing to match me with the meds that would work best for me, instead of trying a bunch of meds until one was a match.I enjoyed both group and individual therapy. I was part of Shatterproof. The layout of that place is amazing. It didn’t feel like I was in therapy. Again, I am thankful to God for leading me there, and I’m thankful to the amazing staff from admissions, the therapists, nurses, cafeteria employees, maintenance and grounds crew! This place was amazing for my recovery. I highly recommend them if your struggling with addiction orMental health. They truly care!
read moreread less
 
×Jeffrey H.

						God and this place literally saved my life! I cannot say enough about the excellent care I received there. I was apprehensive about spending 35 days there, but ended up being there 50+ days and in the end, I wanted to stay just a few days more.The staff there is friendly and supportive. Some are former patients or have gone through what you may be experiencing now. That really made a difference for me. People like Arthur, Al, Sue, Pete, and so many others made my experience unforgettable. Neuro, EMDR, and Breath Work really helped me. I also did genetic testing to match me with the meds that would work best for me, instead of trying a bunch of meds until one was a match.I enjoyed both group and individual therapy. I was part of Shatterproof. The layout of that place is amazing. It didn’t feel like I was in therapy. Again, I am thankful to God for leading me there, and I’m thankful to the amazing staff from admissions, the therapists, nurses, cafeteria employees, maintenance and grounds crew! This place was amazing for my recovery. I highly recommend them if your struggling with addiction orMental health. They truly care!
					
				Brian S.			

							I attended Shatterproof in March/April 2023 after 30 years of unmanaged alcohol use and mental health issues. The program was life changing and laid the foundation for me to begin a new journey toward sobriety. I’m forever grateful for the men and women I met and who have helped me get to where I am today (486 days sober) and counting. Thank you FHE. ❤️💪
read moreread less
 
×Brian S.

						I attended Shatterproof in March/April 2023 after 30 years of unmanaged alcohol use and mental health issues. The program was life changing and laid the foundation for me to begin a new journey toward sobriety. I’m forever grateful for the men and women I met and who have helped me get to where I am today (486 days sober) and counting. Thank you FHE. ❤️💪
					
				Susan S.			

							Today marks 3 years since I arrived at FHE Health to be a resident in the Shatterproof program. It did much more than change my life. It saved my life. Had it not been for the phenomenal Captain of Peer Support from the Indianapolis Fire Department wisely suggesting that I go away for intensive help, I would not have experienced the incredible staff and treatment modalities offered at FHE Health. The 5 weeks I spent there were pivotal in becoming whole and healthy again. I went from feeling like I was in total darkness, profoundly sad, depressed, and suicidal, to feeling hopeful and I found my smile again. My intake photo is almost unrecognizable to me now.It is HARD WORK, but the rewards are wonderful. I HIGHLY recommend this facility!BIG thanks to Craig Ewing, Sachi, Lisa Loew, Ray, Philly Sue, Al, Sam, and many more! I felt so safe, supported, and able to do the work I needed to do. 💚
read moreread less
 
×Susan S.

						Today marks 3 years since I arrived at FHE Health to be a resident in the Shatterproof program. It did much more than change my life. It saved my life. Had it not been for the phenomenal Captain of Peer Support from the Indianapolis Fire Department wisely suggesting that I go away for intensive help, I would not have experienced the incredible staff and treatment modalities offered at FHE Health. The 5 weeks I spent there were pivotal in becoming whole and healthy again. I went from feeling like I was in total darkness, profoundly sad, depressed, and suicidal, to feeling hopeful and I found my smile again. My intake photo is almost unrecognizable to me now.It is HARD WORK, but the rewards are wonderful. I HIGHLY recommend this facility!BIG thanks to Craig Ewing, Sachi, Lisa Loew, Ray, Philly Sue, Al, Sam, and many more! I felt so safe, supported, and able to do the work I needed to do. 💚
					
				Patrick F.			

							As a retired Police Officer, I was very hesitant with seeking treatment. When I put my ego and fear aside, I finally made the call to get help. I was treated with dignity and respect and received outstanding treatment at FHE Health and Shatterproof. Everything from the food to the living accommodations were great. The different treatment modalities I received helped me build a solid foundation to go forward and to help others who are suffering. The men and women who are part of FHE and the Shatterproof program are experts at what they do, and their mission is to get people better to move onto a healthy and productive life.I would highly recommend FHE Health as well as Shatterproof for First Responders.
read moreread less
 
×Patrick F.

						As a retired Police Officer, I was very hesitant with seeking treatment. When I put my ego and fear aside, I finally made the call to get help. I was treated with dignity and respect and received outstanding treatment at FHE Health and Shatterproof. Everything from the food to the living accommodations were great. The different treatment modalities I received helped me build a solid foundation to go forward and to help others who are suffering. The men and women who are part of FHE and the Shatterproof program are experts at what they do, and their mission is to get people better to move onto a healthy and productive life.I would highly recommend FHE Health as well as Shatterproof for First Responders.
					
				Troy C.			

							FHE has a program called Shatterproof which is 100 % geared for first responders and military. I’m very blessed to have been allowed to go through the program which involved so many cutting edge treatments not currently found in my part of the country. The professionals at FHE Shatterproof gave me the tools to process the experiences of the last 25 years of public emergency response. This program started the long process of putting me back together and has given my family their husband, dad, son, nephew and brother back. I am back again to career I love and serving people in their worst times again. May God continue to richly bless this program and those who serve in the program.
read moreread less
 
×Troy C.

						FHE has a program called Shatterproof which is 100 % geared for first responders and military. I’m very blessed to have been allowed to go through the program which involved so many cutting edge treatments not currently found in my part of the country. The professionals at FHE Shatterproof gave me the tools to process the experiences of the last 25 years of public emergency response. This program started the long process of putting me back together and has given my family their husband, dad, son, nephew and brother back. I am back again to career I love and serving people in their worst times again. May God continue to richly bless this program and those who serve in the program.

Most Insurances Accepted

addiction and mental health Insurance logos 1

addiction and mental health Insurance logos 2

Don’t see your insurance?

Verify Insurance

Why Asking for Help Can Feel So Hard: Facing Stigma

Resilience is not the same as ignoring a problem.

For many First Responders, one of the biggest barriers to treatment is feeling comfortable enough to ask for it. The job demands composure, self-reliance and the ability to keep moving when other people are in crisis, so admitting that stress or trauma is taking a toll can feel like a liability.

But recognizing that the work is affecting your mental health and getting treatment improves your well-being, relationships and ability to function on and off duty. Reducing mental health stigma starts with understanding that asking for help is a healthy response to a medical issue.

ConfidentialityBenefitsTime AwayJob Security

How Unions Can Open the Door to Treatment

For many First Responders, getting treatment comes with concerns about confidentiality, benefits, time away from work, job security and reputation. A trusted union can help members understand their options, access benefits, connect with treatment resources and navigate the process with less uncertainty.

Unions also play an important role in changing the culture surrounding mental health. When leaders openly acknowledge PTSD, addiction, depression, anxiety and other behavioral health concerns, they reinforce that seeking care is not a failure of character or commitment to the job. Learn more about how unions support First Responder mental health.

FHE Health works with First Responder organizations, including the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), the Police Benevolent Association (PBA) and the Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association (FMBA), to connect members with specialized care. Early support can be especially valuable when substance use is involved, before the effects reach a person’s health, relationships or career. See our treatment resources for union members.

Shatterproof FHE Health First Responder affiliations

Trauma, PTSD and Co-Occurring Care at Shatterproof FHE Health

Trauma and PTSD are central to what Shatterproof FHE Health treats, often alongside substance use and other co-occurring conditions. Many First Responders come to us after years of repeated trauma exposure, so treatment is built around the full clinical picture rather than a single incident or diagnosis.

Intensive EMDR Program

Shatterproof FHE Health offers intensive EMDR as a core part of trauma treatment for First Responders with significant or repeated trauma exposure. Patients are evaluated to determine whether they meet clinical criteria for the program. Longer, more concentrated sessions create more time to process traumatic memories without having to stop just as the deeper work begins.

For patients who meet criteria, intensive EMDR may include:

Extended sessions designed to build tolerance for processing traumatic memories
Active memory reprocessing and reconsolidation with an EMDR therapist
Resourcing breaks between processing segments, guided by your therapist

This format is especially useful for people carrying years of accumulated trauma rather than one isolated event. Read more about EMDR for First Responders.

Neuroscience-Based Trauma Treatment

Shatterproof FHE Health incorporates neuroscience-based treatment into care for PTSD and related conditions. Each patient in the program receives a neuroimaging scan, which gives the clinical team additional information about brain function and helps guide targeted treatment alongside therapy.

For many First Responders, seeing symptoms through a neurological lens can also reduce self-stigma. What once felt like a personal failing becomes something that can be understood, treated and monitored as part of a broader clinical plan. Learn how neurotherapy is helping First Responders.

Treatment From People Who Understand the Job

Dr. Sachi Ananda Director of Shatterproof FHE Health

You shouldn’t have to explain the job before you can talk about what it did to you.

One of the biggest barriers to care for First Responders is the fear that a civilian therapist won’t understand the culture, pressures or realities of the job. Shatterproof FHE Health addresses that directly: many of our clinicians and counselors are former First Responders themselves.

That experience shapes treatment in practical ways:

Many of our clinicians and counselors have First Responder backgrounds
Your treatment team understands the professional code, values and stressors that come with the work
You’ll process alongside other First Responders who bring many of the same experiences into the room

Research published in the American Psychiatric Association’s journal Psychiatric Services notes that cultural competence in health care is associated with better treatment engagement and lower attrition. For First Responders, that means care from people who understand the culture of the job. At Shatterproof FHE Health, that shared understanding, along with our peer community, helps create a setting where patients can speak more openly and stay connected to treatment.

Shatterproof FHE Health Levels of Care

Patients in Shatterproof FHE Health move through a continuum of care based on the levels defined by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM). Each level reflects what a patient needs at a given point in recovery.

ASAM Level 3

Residential/Inpatient

Residential treatment is the highest, most intensive level of care, for First Responders with more severe or co-occurring conditions. Patients receive supervised care 24/7 with a full day of group and individual therapy. For some patients, care begins with medically supervised detox.

ASAM Level 2

Partial Hospitalization (PHP)

PHP provides a structured day of group and individual therapy without a residential requirement. It is often a step down from residential care, keeping treatment intensive while patients build independence. Designated program housing is available.

ASAM Level 2

Intensive Outpatient (IOP)

IOP includes three hours of group therapy and one hour of individual therapy, and each patient is evaluated for all ancillary services. IOP is a good fit for First Responders who are still working. Designated program housing is available.

Schedules and hours described here are examples only. FHE Health’s actual programming varies by patient and program. Consult with admissions for current schedules. Learn more about how PHP and IOP work.

Alumni and Aftercare

After completing treatment, graduates of the program stay connected through our Alumni and Aftercare Program, which includes:

Our strong alumni support system
Referrals to First Responder-specific support groups in the patient’s home area
Case managers who set up psychiatric and therapeutic referrals with providers experienced in First Responder care

Support for First Responder Families and Loved Ones

Recovery doesn’t happen in isolation. Shatterproof FHE Health extends family support to spouses, partners and family members through resources designed specifically for the people who stand beside First Responders.

Stronger Together

A support group for spouses and significant others navigating the stress of loving and supporting a First Responder.

Learn more about Stronger Together

First Responder Families Podcast

Monthly conversations on trauma, communication, EMDR and family wellness within the First Responder community.

Listen to the podcast

Family Education Program

Trauma-informed education that helps families better understand mental health, recovery and how to provide meaningful support.

Explore family support

Why First Responders Choose Shatterproof FHE Health

Choosing treatment means deciding who you’ll trust with some of the hardest parts of your career and your life. Shatterproof FHE Health is different from a general treatment program that simply accepts First Responders. It was built around the culture, trauma, pressures and needs of this community from the beginning.

Built specifically for First Responders, not adapted from a general treatment model

Clinicians who understand the culture, including many with First Responder backgrounds

Advanced trauma treatment, including intensive EMDR and neuroscience-based care

Strong First Responder partnerships, including the FOP, PBA and FMBA

Confidential admissions and coordination with unions around treatment, benefits and time away from work

Dedicated family programming for spouses, partners and loved ones

A full continuum of care, from residential treatment through PHP and IOP

You’ve Spent Your Life Protecting Others. Let Us Help You Protect Your Future.

The work you do asks a lot of you. When trauma, PTSD, substance use or other mental health concerns start taking something back, you deserve care from people who understand where that weight comes from.

Call (833) 596-3502

Speak with our team confidentially about what recovery could look like for you.

Veteran or service member? Start here.

Explore the Shatterproof FHE Health Brochure

Firefighters, police officers and EMS personnel in the Shatterproof FHE Health program

Frequently Asked Questions About Shatterproof FHE Health

What makes Shatterproof FHE Health different from standard rehab programs?

Standard rehab programs are built for a general population. Shatterproof FHE Health was built specifically around First Responder culture, values and trauma exposure. Many of our clinicians and counselors have First Responder backgrounds themselves, and our treatment approach, from intensive EMDR to neuroscience-based care, is designed around the patterns of trauma these professions create.

How does the program address trauma and PTSD alongside addiction?

We treat trauma, PTSD and substance use together rather than addressing one in isolation, since they are often deeply connected for First Responders. Each patient receives a neuroimaging scan that helps guide treatment. Care may also include intensive EMDR therapy for patients who are evaluated and meet clinical criteria, along with a customized combination of therapies targeting both mental health symptoms and substance use.

What levels of care does Shatterproof FHE Health offer?

Shatterproof FHE Health offers residential/inpatient treatment, partial hospitalization (PHP) and intensive outpatient treatment (IOP). Residential care provides 24/7 supervised treatment, including medically supervised detox for patients who need it. PHP and IOP offer structured therapy without a residential requirement, and designated program housing is available at both levels. IOP can be a good fit for First Responders who are still working.

Is treatment at Shatterproof FHE Health confidential?

Yes. Calling us, asking questions and getting treatment are all confidential. Patient health information is protected under HIPAA, and our admissions process is designed to be discreet so you can reach out for help with confidence.

Can Shatterproof FHE Health work with my union?

Yes. FHE Health works with First Responder organizations, including the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), the Police Benevolent Association (PBA) and the Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association (FMBA). Our team can coordinate with your union around treatment, benefits and time away from work so you can focus on recovery.

I'm a Veteran. Is this the right program for me?

Veterans are served through Shatterproof Military & Veterans, a dedicated branch of Shatterproof FHE Health built around military culture, service-related trauma and Veteran benefits such as Tricare and VA Community Care. If you’re a Veteran who also works as a First Responder, our admissions team can help you find the right fit.

What support is available for families of First Responders?

Shatterproof FHE Health offers family programming for spouses, partners and loved ones. This includes the Stronger Together support group, the monthly First Responder Families Podcast and trauma-informed family education that helps families understand mental health, recovery and how to provide meaningful support.

Does insurance cover treatment at Shatterproof FHE Health?

Many insurance plans include coverage for mental health and substance use treatment, but benefits vary by plan. Our admissions team can verify your insurance, review what your plan may cover and walk you through your options. Veterans and military families can find information on Tricare and VA Community Care on our Shatterproof Military & Veterans page.

First Responder Rehab Program