Specialized Care for First Responders
Expert treatment for first responders facing mental health and substance use disorders.
What is Overwatch?
In the field, “overwatch” means having your six — providing cover when it matters most.
At STR Silver Pines, Overwatch means the same: standing guard for those who’ve dedicated their lives to protecting others. Designed exclusively for first responders, this program delivers mission-driven care for trauma, addiction, and mental health challenges — because you shouldn’t have to fight this battle alone.
Supporting Our Communities’ Heroes
First responders dedicate their lives to protecting others — yet the daily demands of their work take a heavy toll. Police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics face intense stress and trauma, putting them at greater risk for mental health challenges and substance use disorders. STR can help.
Navigating the
Return to Duty
We understand the unique challenge first responders face when returning to high-stress, often triggering environments after treatment. To support this transition, we offer specialized aftercare and collaborate with families and employers to ensure ongoing, coordinated care that supports long-term recovery — both on and off the job.
What We Treat
STR Silver Pines provides targeted, comprehensive care for first responders, addressing common mental health and substance use challenges that come with this high-stress profession.
Levels of Care
As part of Overwatch, we offer specialized detox and residential treatment programs exclusively for first responders. STR provides a structured, supportive environment to help clients heal from trauma, build resilience, and regain control of their life.
Medical Detox
We provide medication-assisted detox services in a safe, supportive environment, helping first responders safely navigate withdrawal and prepare for long-term recovery.
The Silver Pines Difference
Taking the first step toward recovery is courageous — you don’t have to do it alone. Our expert team is deeply familiar with the unique challenges of first responders and is committed to delivering personalized care that supports lasting recovery and a successful return to the stressful demands of work and life.
First Responder-Led Groups
Weekly process groups address PTSD, trauma, critical incident stress, and the emotional toll of frontline work.
Specialized Housing
Private or shared accommodations with fellow first responders or veterans foster a supportive environment for recovery.
Priority Admissions + Transportation
We prioritize first responders for same-day admissions when possible and offer transportation within a six-hour radius.
Post Traumatic Growth Focus
The post traumatic growth inventory (PTGI) tracks progress across five areas: relationships, new possibilities, personal strength, spiritual change, and appreciation of life. This strengths-based tool supports first responders in reconnecting with their drive to serve and building authentic connections. Recent data shows a 60% improvement in PTGI scores from admission to discharge.
Clinical Expertise with Lived Experience
Our evidence-based care is delivered by a team with clinical expertise and shared experience in treating first responders. We understand the unique challenges they face and provide practical strategies to support resilience, recovery, and a successful return to duty. With compassion and a personalized approach, we help each client build lasting well-being and long-term healing.
Matthew Sommons, MD
Medical Director | Military Veteran
Harry Fisher
Primary Therapist | Former Police Officer
Doug Chupasko
Lead Behavioral Health Tech | Army-Air Force Veteran
Brian Sabo
Clinical Partnerships | Former Police Officer
Our Treatment Approach
We combine impactful evidence-based treatments with experiential and supplementary therapies to create a holistic, personalized healing experience for first responders, addressing their unique challenges and experiences.
Dialectical behavior therapy
DBT helps veterans manage intense emotions, build resilience, and improve interpersonal relationships. By combining mindfulness, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance, DBT equips veterans with practical skills to navigate trauma and stress while fostering long-term mental health.
Family therapy
Family therapy helps veterans and their families restore trust and communication affected by substance use and stress. We offer in-person family programs based on BALM principles every Sunday and virtual support groups on Wednesdays and Saturdays, with additional sessions available as needed.
Group therapy
Group therapy fosters peer support, reduces isolation, and tailors 12-step facilitation and SMART Recovery programs. Veterans participate in specialized groups led by experienced peers.
Medication-assisted therapy
MAT is a treatment for opioid and alcohol dependence using Suboxone, Vivitrol, Naltrexone, and more (excluding methadone). Medical providers assess and manage medications on a weekly basis.
Motivational interviewing
MI builds internal motivation, reduces resistance, and enhances engagement in treatment. We offer multiple MI-based groups throughout the week.
Motivational enhancement therapy
MET is a client-centered approach that helps veterans strengthen their motivation to overcome substance use by exploring personal goals and ambivalence. MET empowers veterans to commit to change through guided conversations, fostering long-term recovery and personal growth.
Trauma-informed care + therapy
We recognize the profound impact trauma has on thoughts, behaviors, and the recovery process. Our priority is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel empowered to build trust, embrace vulnerability, and foster authenticity as an essential foundation for healing.
Mindfulness-based relapse prevention
MBRP combines mindfulness with relapse prevention to manage stress and cravings through DBT, yoga, and meditation groups.
Recreational + experiential therapies
Holistic therapies include outdoor activities, art therapy (led by a trauma-informed art therapist), and recreational activities that build comradery and foster interpersonal connections.
LGBTQIA+ Support
STR Behavioral Health is committed to providing an inclusive and affirming environment for LGBTQIA+ first responders. Understanding their unique challenges — such as stigma and discrimination — our team offers compassionate, culturally competent care. We prioritize mental health and well-being, ensuring everyone feels valued, respected, and supported throughout their recovery journey.
Flexible Payment Options
STR Silver Pines accepts both in-network and out-of-network insurance, as well as private pay options. Our admissions team works closely with each individual to find the best payment solution.
And more
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you provide PTSD + trauma treatment?
Yes. We offer a variety of trauma-based therapies delivered by master’s-level clinicians with specialized expertise in first responder-related trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
What obstacles prevent first responders from seeking help for addiction?
First responders face several obstacles to seeking help, including stigma, fear of job-related consequences, confidentiality concerns, and the pressure to maintain a strong, resilient image. The demanding nature of their work often makes it challenging to acknowledge vulnerability and reach out for support.
Can I stay connected with my family while in treatment?
Yes. We offer in-person family programs every Sunday and virtual support groups on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Additional sessions can also be scheduled as needed to ensure ongoing support.
Do you provide transportation?
Yes, transportation is provided within six hours of the facility.
Can you accommodate a same-day admission?
Yes. We prioritize veterans for same-day admissions when possible.
Comprehensive care,
built for first responders
Take the first step toward healing. Contact our expert team today to learn how our Overwatch program for substance use, alcohol addiction, and mental health disorders can help you reclaim your life.