Every day, the men and women of Marion County’s fire rescue, law enforcement, and emergency services run toward situations most people run from. They show up in the hardest moments of people’s lives, often without warning, without time to process, and without the option to look away.
September is a month that brings that reality into sharp focus. Most notably, on Sept. 11, 2001, first responders across the country answered the call in one of the most devastating moments in American history. The courage displayed that day has never been forgotten. It also left a lasting reminder of the physical and emotional toll that comes with a life of service.
Here in Marion County, MCHD is committed to making sure the people who protect our community have access to the mental health support they deserve.
The Weight of the Work
First responders face chronic exposure to trauma, grief, life-and-death decisions, and the kind of stress that doesn’t clock out at the end of a shift. Over time, that exposure takes a toll. Research consistently shows that first responders experience significantly higher rates of PTSD, depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, and substance use than the general population.
In past years, the culture of emergency services has made it difficult for individuals to seek help. Asking for support was seen as a sign of weakness in professions that pride themselves on strength and resilience. That culture is changing, and access to confidential, compassionate care is a critical part of making that change real.
Care Funded by MCHD
In Marion County, help is available for:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Sleep disorders
- Addiction
- Co-occurring disorders
The First Rescue Alliance
The Marion County Hospital District funds the First Rescue Alliance program, which provides free, confidential counseling services to first responders and their families right here in Marion County.
Through the First Rescue Alliance, eligible personnel and their immediate family members can access talk therapy at no cost through two local providers.
Ocala Consulting and Prevention (OCP), located at 2303 SE 17th St., provides counseling services to Marion County Fire Rescue and Ocala Fire Rescue personnel and their immediate families. Services include clinical counseling, anger management, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, EMDR trauma treatment, and family and marital counseling.
To book an appointment with OCP, call 352-622-4488, email OCP@ocalaconsulting.com, or visit Ocala Consulting and Prevention.
Dove Wellness and Counseling
Dove Wellness and Counseling, located at 303 SW 8th St., provides free counseling services to Ocala Police Department and Marion County Sheriff’s Office personnel and their immediate families. Dove is led by Lisa Lynn, LMHC, a U.S. Army veteran and Advanced Accelerated Resolution Therapy certified clinician who has completed Blueline Rescue Training for First Responders. Services include clinical counseling, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and marital and premarital counseling.
To book an appointment with Dove Wellness and Counseling, call 352-280-3498.
Both programs are available to eligible personnel and their spouses and children at no cost. All services are compassionate and confidential.
Taking Care of Those Who Take Care of Us
We believe that a healthy community starts with healthy people, including the people on the front lines. Investing in first responder mental health is an investment in the safety and resilience of every Marion County resident who depends on these people every day.
If you are a first responder or the family member of one, you don’t have to carry it alone. Support is available, free, and confidential.
To learn more about MCHD and the programs we fund in Marion County, visit MCHD’s programs and initiatives.
