First Responders Addiction Treatment
AKUA’s first responders are always on the frontline to help us in our time of need. The traumatic events that they witness each day while at work are impactful and long lasting. Most of the time, their experiences are life-changing. AKUA’s First Responders treatment track provides firefighters, police officers, paramedics, military, and other uniformed personnel with a platform to get their life back on track and begin the healing process. AKUA Mind and Body offers a holistic approach along with trauma therapy as the main component. We welcome current and former first responders in our program to assist with giving back to what was given to them, a chance to grow through impactful events. Akua also provides them with specific and specialized treatment that includes peer-based support.Our Approach
Individualized Trauma Assessment
Our clinicians assess each new client to determine their level of trauma and course of treatment.Trauma Therapy Approaches
We utilize Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), brain-spotting, and cognitive processing which are the approved evidence-based techniques for trauma treatment.Family Therapy
AKUA offers family therapy as part of integrating the client’s family into the recovery process.Peer Support
AKUA provides peer-based support to first responders so that they can feel a sense of belonging and safety sharing with other first responder clients.Find a Treatment Program For First Responders
Call Our 24-Hour Admissions Helpline. We are here to help.

Meet Our First Responder Outreach Specialist
Carl Lemos Joins AKUA Mind & Body
My name is Carl Lemos, and I am 31 years old, and from Carmel Valley, California. I am here because I am a first responder in recovery. I grew up in a happy home with a good family, and was with the fire department for 11 years. In 2008, I broke my femur. I had four years’ worth of surgeries and complications, and I became addicted to pain pills. I found a first responders treatment track, and I have now dedicated my life to helping first responders struggling with substance abuse here at AKUA.