First Responders, Military & Veterans
Caring for the Ones Who Care for Others
Helping you recover from what you have carried. At your pace and with steady support.
As a First Responder, Member of the Canadian Armed Forces, or Veteran you have dedicated your life to helping, protecting, or serving others. You have likely witnessed moments of crisis, loss, and danger, or you hear about it all around you. These experiences that stay with you, even when the world expects you to “stay strong.”
Over time, these experiences can build up, leading to exhaustion, anxiety, emotional numbness, or difficulty relaxing. You may find it hard to switch off after work, connect with loved ones, or feel the same sense of purpose you once had.
Therapy offers a private, understanding space to process what you’ve been carrying and begin to heal, safely, at your own pace, and without judgment.
Understanding the Impact of Service
Many first responders and military members carry experiences that continue to affect them long after the moment has passed. You may feel stressed, overwhelmed, disconnected, or weighed down by guilt, loss, or memories that are hard to shake. These reactions are understandable responses to years of serving in high pressure, high responsibility roles.
With support, it becomes easier to make sense of what you have been carrying and to find steadier ground again. Many people begin to feel more present, more connected, and more able to rest both on and off duty. Healing is possible, even if it has been a long time, and you do not have to hold these experiences on your own anymore.
How Therapy Can Help
Therapy can help you make sense of what you have been carrying and give your mind and body a chance to settle again. Many people notice their stress easing, their sleep improving, and their reactions becoming less intense as they begin to feel safer and more supported.
Together, we look at how your experiences have been affecting you day to day and find steadier ways to cope with the pressure, memories, and emotions that come with your work. Over time, it becomes easier to rest, to focus, and to reconnect with the people and parts of your life that matter most.
My Approach
I have supported many individuals working in high-stakes and service-based professions, including police officers, firefighters, paramedics, corrections staff, healthcare professionals, veterans, and active service members.
My approach is trauma-informed, compassionate, and tailored to your needs, depending on what feels right for you. You will always set the pace. My role is to offer structure, safety, and understanding so you can find relief without feeling overwhelmed.
Online & In-Person Options
Because shift work and deployments can make consistency challenging, I offer both in-person sessions in Strathroy and London, and secure online therapy across Ontario.
Online therapy offers:
- Flexibility around rotating shifts and irregular hours
- Privacy and comfort from your own environment
- Consistent support wherever you’re located
Many first responders find that online sessions fit more easily into their lives and allow them to access support when they need it most.
Common Issues I Help With
Many first responders, military members and veterans carry experiences that continue to affect them long after the moment has passed. You may feel stressed, overwhelmed, disconnected, or weighed down by guilt, loss, or memories that are hard to shake. These reactions are understandable responses to years of serving in high pressure, high responsibility roles.
With support, it becomes easier to make sense of what you have been carrying and to find steadier ground again. Many people begin to feel more present, more connected, and more able to rest both on and off duty. Healing is possible, even if it has been a long time, and you do not have to hold these experiences on your own anymore.
FAQ
Do I have to talk about what happened on the job or during service?
No. You decide what feels safe to share. Therapy focuses on helping your mind and body find relief from the ongoing impact of those experiences, without needing to revisit every detail.
Can therapy really help after years of carrying these experiences?
Yes. Trauma can remain stored in the body and nervous system long after an event. Approaches like EMDR and trauma-informed therapy can help release that tension, even years later, and restore a sense of calm and control.
Do you work with family members too?
Absolutely. Service-related stress affects families as much as individuals. I offer therapy for spouses, partners, and loved ones to help improve understanding, communication, and emotional connection.
I work rotating shifts — can I still access therapy?
Yes. I offer flexible scheduling and online therapy across Ontario, making it easier to receive consistent support regardless of your schedule or location.
Is this a faith-based service?
My approach is guided by compassion and faith, but therapy is always inclusive and respectful of your personal beliefs and background. The focus is on your wellbeing, values, and comfort.
You’ve Been There for Others — Now It’s Time to Be There for Yourself
The work you do matters deeply. But so does your wellbeing.
Therapy offers a space to rest, reset, and heal without judgment or pressure.
Services
Contact
(226) 455-5365
Gina@ginasantos.com
Serving London, Strathroy, Sarnia and area