AUGUSTA, Ga. – Valor Station-Augusta, a new non-profit organization, is dedicated to providing behavioral health services to first responders—those who are often called upon to face high-stress situations but rarely have the support they need to deal with the emotional and mental toll.

The organization, which is staffed by both current and former first responders, focuses on helping these individuals return to their agencies, families, and communities healthier, happier, and more productive. Valor Station-Augusta offers an intensive outpatient program designed specifically for first responders, addressing issues such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation.

Andy Carrier, a former Georgia State Patrol officer with more than 30 years of experience in the field, understands the personal challenges that come with the job. Carrier, who now serves as the Chief Operations Officer of Valor Station, explained that first responders often carry the weight of traumatic experiences that can result in emotional struggles.

“You don’t go through a 30-year career and not see some things, go through some things, things that will cause you to lose sleep, things that will cause you to act out, maybe be a little impatient when you shouldn’t,” Carrier said. “The goal is to get these people to return with a different outlook.”

Valor Station’s services are tailored to help first responders recognize and manage the mental health challenges they face. The organization is committed to providing the tools necessary to navigate the trauma they experience, ultimately leading to healthier, more resilient individuals who can continue their work effectively.

Carrier emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy workforce of first responders. “It is incumbent on a society to want healthy first responders because if you call on your worst day, who do you want showing up?” he asked. “What version of that firefighter, paramedic, or officer do you want showing up? You want them as healthy as can be in every way possible because they can provide you a better service when that happens.”

In partnership with the Hale Foundation, a residential treatment facility for men suffering from substance abuse, Valor Station-Augusta offers a holistic approach to healing. Cliff Richards, CEO of both the Hale Foundation and Valor Station, said the goal is to remove financial barriers that might prevent first responders from seeking help.

“Our mission is to be able to help them no matter what, whether they have the funds or means to pay or not,” Richards said. He added that Valor Station is committed to supporting those in need, regardless of their financial situation.

Valor Station also provides a 12-bed residential facility for individuals who need a safe space to focus on their healing. The facility offers a comfortable, non-clinical environment that allows first responders to work through their challenges without feeling like they are in a hospital or institutional setting.

“We want them to feel like they have a place where they can be comfortable and focus on their healing,” said Matthew Carpenter, Vice President of Valor Station-Augusta.

The organization’s efforts are not only focused on local first responders but aim to support those across the United States. With an official opening date set for March 31, Valor Station-Augusta hopes to make a lasting impact on the mental health and well-being of first responders everywhere.

In a field where mental health is often overlooked, Valor Station’s mission is clear: to provide the necessary support and resources for first responders to heal, grow, and return to their vital roles stronger and more capable than ever before.