Emergency service work means repeated exposure to trauma, critical incidents and high-pressure situations. General mental health services don’t always understand that.
Delivered by Phoenix Australia, the National Centre of Excellence in Posttraumatic Mental Health, Responder Assist connects current and former Victorian emergency service workers with clinicians experienced in:
We also train the people who support them through self-paced online courses, the Responder Assist x MHPN Community of Practice and our Peer Support & Wellbeing Series.
Responder Assist supports current and former Victorian emergency service workers, including paid staff, volunteers, communications staff, administrative staff and non-operational personnel.
This includes people who are currently working, volunteering or who have previously worked within:
You need to be based in Victoria to access the service.
Many emergency service workers tell us that not having to explain “the job” helped them feel more understood and more comfortable engaging in treatment.
Our clinicians understand the culture and realities of emergency service work, including:
By connecting our research with real-world service delivery, we can identify what works, respond to emerging needs and continue improving trauma-informed care.
The first step is a confidential conversation with a Responder Assist intake team member.
You can reach out via 1800 329 191 (9am – 5pm AEST Mon-Fri – excl. holidays) or via our contact form.
You won’t be expected to “tell your whole story”.
We’ll talk with you about:
This helps us connect you with the appropriate support pathway.
Depending on your needs, support from Responder Assist may include:
Treatment is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals.
People reach out with PTSD and other trauma-related challenges such as:
emergency service workers supported through Responder Assist
4/5 average treatment satisfaction rating
significant improvements observed in PTSD symptoms, depression and anxiety
Emergency service workers experience higher rates of psychological distress than the general population, but barriers like stigma, confidentiality concerns and workplace culture can affect when and how people seek support. Responder Assist’s research helps us understand these challenges and improve the delivery of trauma-informed care.
It’s okay if you’re not sure what to say. Many people contact the clinic simply wanting to understand what support options are available.
You can either call the clinic or submit your details via the form below.
Call 1800 329 191
9am–5pm Monday to Friday (excl. public holidays)
Explore practical clinician and client resources designed to support emergency service workers experiencing trauma-related mental health concerns.
Explore resources
Build your knowledge and skills through specialist trauma training, professional development and our Community of Practice.
Browse courses
Access evidence-based guidance for the assessment, treatment and support of emergency service personnel with PTSD.
View guidelines
Confidential 24/7
counselling and referrals
