New program provides trauma-informed, culturally competent care for those who protect our communities
PHOENIX, Ariz. (March 9, 2026) – Denova Collaborative Health has launched a new First Responder Treatment Program, a specialized initiative dedicated to meeting the mental health needs of Arizona’s first responders, including firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical technicians and paramedics.
Developed and led by Denova’s psychiatry team, the program ensures first responders have access to clinicians who understand the unique pressures, trauma exposure and culture of their professions. Providers completed focused clinical training on the unique stressors impacting first responders and learned targeted, evidence-based strategies to support their mental health and resilience.
“First responders face intense daily stress and trauma but are often reluctant to seek help due to stigma or concerns about confidentiality,” said Jessica Patriquin, vice president of Psychiatric Services at Denova Collaborative Health. “The goal with this training is to ensure we create a safe, compassionate environment where first responders receive care that truly reflects their experiences and needs.”
The training, which was developed in-house, covers:
- Evidence-based approaches to managing trauma, stress and burnout
- Culturally competent care rooted in understanding the demands of shift work and high-stakes decision-making
- Guidance on documentation and medication management tailored for first responders
Denova’s First Responder Treatment Team integrates both therapy and psychiatry providers who have completed the specialized training, enabling first responders to receive cohesive, multidisciplinary care.
Phoenix Police Chief Matt Giordano shared that “Mental health support for those who serve in the Phoenix Police Department is something I take very seriously. When officers and support staff are at their best—physically, mentally, and emotionally—they are able to best serve and protect the community. Investing in their well-being ensures they have the resilience needed to meet the challenges of the job and continue building trust with those they serve.”
The program emerged in response to an increase in patients requesting first-responder-trained professionals. It’s part of Denova’s ongoing commitment to expand access to timely, high-quality mental healthcare.
“At Denova, we’re committed to finding ways to increase access to care for those who need it most,” said Graham Johnson, CEO of Denova Collaborative Health. “First responders protect our communities every day. It’s our responsibility to make sure they have access to care that protects their well-being.”
Patients can now request appointments with First Responder Treatment Team members for therapy, psychiatry or both, with options available virtually or in person. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.denova.com or call (602) 230-7373.
About Denova Collaborative Health Denova Collaborative Health is transforming healthcare through a compassionate, whole-person approach that integrates mental health, primary care, and behavioral health services. With nine locations across Arizona and a robust telehealth program, Denova offers same-day and next-day appointments to ensure immediate care for patients. Denova is Arizona’s first and only URAC-accredited telehealth behavioral health provider, making quality care accessible to those who need it most.
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