Tailored Care For First Responders
Trauma Informed Care
As firefighters, law enforcement officers, paramedics, or EMTs, you face unique psychological challenges that can significantly impact your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Research shows that about 1 in 7 first responders develop probable Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) related to their routine duties, highlighting the high risk within your line of work.
You are trained to run toward danger, and we are here to support your mental health recovery with trauma-informed care that truly understands the culture of service. FL Occupational Psychiatry offers services that are Workers' Compensation-compliant and specialize in treating PTSD, anxiety, and depression linked to occupational trauma, delivered with respect for your confidentiality and career. Click here to review what conditions we help treat.
Florida Law reflects the unique risks of First Responders
FL Occupational Psychiatry keeps up to date with the latest guidelines by the state of Florida to align your care within statutory requirements
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PTSD is compensable without physical injury
Under the First Responder presumption clause in FS §112.18, firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and EMTs can receive benefits for PTSD caused by a specific qualifying events, even if you weren't physically hurt.
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Your longterm benefits are protected
With the latest guidelines from the state of Florida, your care is not capped by the strict limits. FL Occupational Psychiatry can help navigate these benefits to ensure you receive the long-term care you need.
Expertise Rooted in Real Experience
At FL Occupational Psychiatry, Dr. Vijapura combines clinical expertise with a deep understanding of first responder life, from the long shifts and mandatory overtime to the “sacred” kitchen table conversations that define trust and camaraderie. His approach reflects genuine respect for the culture of service and the belief that healing begins with being understood.
Dr. Vijapura during a firefighter ride-along in Lynn Haven, FL
Why Our Approach Stands Out
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Dr. Vijapura conducts site visits to fire and law enforcement departments and has attended specialized seminars on trauma, resilience, and operational stress unique to first responders. These experiences inform how he approaches assessment, recovery, and reintegration.
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Board-Certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine and a Florida DWC Certified Expert Medical Advisor, Dr. Vijapura provides integrated expertise in trauma, addiction, and occupational mental health.
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Our care aligns with Florida’s first responder statutes, including FS §112.18 (the Heart and Lung Bill) and related presumptive injury protections. This ensures that each treatment plan is clinically sound, legally informed, and fully compliant with state guidelines.
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We recognize that trauma can build over time. Post-Traumatic Injury (PTI) arises from chronic exposure, disrupted recovery cycles, and emotional strain, often just as impactful as single-event PTSD.