Therapy for first responders and their partners that’s built to handle the pressure, trauma, and emotional distance caused by the job. Build a bond that will endure with support.
Your job is demanding. Long hours, emotional exhaustion, and the stress of high-stakes situations can take a toll on your personal relationships. Over time, these pressures may lead to emotional distance, communication breakdowns, or unresolved conflicts.
As the wife of a firefighter, I’ve experienced both the rewarding and challenging aspects of this life. I know how vital it is to have a partner you can count on—and how tough it can be to maintain that connection when work pulls you in so many directions.
Our couples therapy is created specifically for first responders and their partners, addressing the struggles that come with your role. Through therapy, you can:
Hi, I’m Sarah. As the wife of a firefighter and a licensed clinical social worker, I’ve seen firsthand the toll that a first responder career can take on personal relationships. That’s why I’ve dedicated my career to helping first responders and their partners strengthen their bonds and find balance.
I am Maine’s first Emergency Responder and Public Safety Certified Clinician (ERPSCC). With a compassionate and results-driven approach, I offer therapy that doesn’t just address surface issues but gets to the heart of what matters most: your connection. I’m here to guide you through challenges, celebrate your victories, and help you build a stronger future together.
As someone who knows the stresses you face daily, I’m committed to providing a safe, judgment-free space where you and your partner can work toward understanding, healing, and hope.
We know your time is valuable, so we focus on making every session meaningful. Here’s what you can expect:
Our sessions are built around your schedule, ensuring that therapy fits seamlessly into your life.
Individual Trauma Therapy can also help build resilience.
Being in a relationship with a first responder means living with constant unpredictability—missed dinners, late-night shifts, emotional shutdowns after traumatic calls. These aren’t just “stressful jobs”—they change how someone connects, communicates, and copes.
That’s why generic couples therapy often falls short.
First responder couples face:
Emotional numbing from repeated trauma exposure
Communication breakdowns due to shift work and burnout
Hypervigilance and difficulty “turning off” at home
Secondary trauma carried by the non-responder partner
This therapy is designed with those realities in mind. Our approach blends proven relationship tools with deep insight into first responder culture—creating a safe space where both partners feel seen, heard, and understood.
If the job is affecting your home life, it’s not your fault—but it is time to get the right support.
A: If you’re experiencing communication issues, emotional distance, or stress affecting your relationship, couples therapy can help. It’s a supportive space to address these challenges and find solutions together.
A: Yes, absolutely. Your privacy is our priority, and all sessions are conducted in a safe, confidential environment.
A: Yes. Our sessions are specifically designed to help first responders and their partners manage the effects of work-related stress and trauma.
A: It’s easy! Click the “Schedule Your Consultation Today” button to book your first session. We’ll guide you through the process and answer any questions you have.
Your relationship can grow stronger with the right support. At Guiding Light Behavioral Health, we’ve seen countless couples achieve breakthroughs through therapy. Whether it’s improving communication, rebuilding trust, or managing stress together, the transformation is real.
While every couple’s journey is unique, the outcomes are often life-changing. Let’s work together to create a relationship that thrives, no matter the challenges.
Click on the button below to schedule an appointment with Guiding Light Counseling