Denver Clinics Unite to Provide Free Treatment for First Responders After Budget Cuts

Healing Our Heroes: Free TMS Therapy for First Responders Through the 266K Campaign

When first responders rush to the scene of an emergency, they put their physical and emotional well-being on the line for others. Despite this and the suicides of three police officers, Denver recently announced caps to mental health support for first responders.

As part of the 266K Project to save the lives of 266,000 Coloradans who experience serious thoughts of suicide each year, Axis Integrated Mental Health, along with Peace of Mind 5280, Griffith Centers, Elevate Coaching, and Better Life has announced a limited amount of pro bono services to assist first responders who need mental health services. Our hope is that it will inspire other members of the mental health community to offer services  as well to allow more first responders to get help.

As part of the program, Axis Integrated Mental Health is offering free Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatments to police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics who need support with psychotherapy being donated by other clinics. This blog will walk you through the program, why it matters, and how you or someone you love can get involved.

What Is the First Responders Pro Bono TMS Program?

The First Responders Pro Bono TMS Program provides free, evidence-based depression treatment to first responders across Colorado.

The program was launched in direct response to recent cuts in Denver’s mental health funding for first responders. At a time when the need for services has never been greater, our team—and our partners—stepped up to ensure our heroes aren't left behind.

Through this program, eligible first responders can receive a full course of FDA-cleared TMS therapy for depression at no cost. Our goal: to prevent suicide, restore hope, and protect the mental well-being of those who protect us.

Why Are Mental Health Services for First Responders Important?

Research shows that first responders are at higher risk for depression, PTSD, anxiety, and suicide compared to the general public.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA):

• 30% of first responders develop behavioral health conditions, including depression and PTSD (compared to 20% in the general population).
• Firefighters are three times more likely to die by suicide than in the line of duty.
• Police officers experience PTSD and depression at rates five times higher than civilians.

Despite these facts, many first responders hesitate to seek help. Barriers include:

• Stigma about mental health in high-performance cultures.
• Fear of job repercussions for disclosing mental health struggles.
• Limited access to affordable, confidential care.
• Lack of previous med trials required to secure prior authorization from insurance

By offering private, no-cost treatment, our program removes major barriers to care—and sends a powerful message: You are not forgotten. We are here, and we will fight for your mental health

What Is TMS Therapy and How Does It Work?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive, FDA-cleared treatment for depression and certain anxiety disorders.

It works by using magnetic pulses to stimulate underactive areas of the brain associated with mood regulation. Over time, TMS can "retrain" the brain to function more normally, offering long-term relief from depression without the systemic side effects of medication.

Key facts about TMS:

• It’s non-invasive: no anesthesia, no hospitalization, no downtime.
• It’s med-free: TMS can be an option for people who don't respond to or can’t tolerate antidepressants.
• It’s highly effective: Studies show a 50%-60% response rate, and about one-third achieve full remission from depression.
• Sessions are short: about 20-30 minutes, five times per week for six weeks.

For first responders with complex trauma histories, high-stress jobs, and difficulty finding time for recovery, TMS offers a science-backed path to healing.

Is TMS Effective for PTSD and Depression in First Responders?

Yes. While TMS was initially FDA-cleared for major depressive disorder (MDD), growing research shows promising results for treating PTSD symptoms, especially when depression and PTSD co-occur.

Key findings:

• A 2019 meta-analysis published in Journal of Affective Disorders found that TMS significantly reduces PTSD symptoms.
• Veterans and first responders in clinical studies report improvements in mood, emotional regulation, and quality of life after TMS treatment.

While TMS is not a replacement for therapy or medication in all cases, it is a powerful tool in the toolkit for treating treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD-related depression—all conditions first responders experience at higher rates.

Who Qualifies for Free TMS Therapy?

To qualify for the First Responders Pro Bono TMS Program, applicants must:

• Be a current police officer, firefighter, EMT, or paramedic.
• Live or work in Colorado.
• Have symptoms of moderate to severe depression or related conditions.
• Be medically eligible for TMS after a clinical evaluation (screening for safe treatment).

No insurance is required to access care through this program.

Our teams also offer confidential screenings to ensure first responders feel safe and supported every step of the way.

Which Clinics Are Participating?

This collaborative effort spans several leading mental health providers, including:

• Axis Integrated Mental Health
• Peace of Mind 5280
• Griffith Centers
• Elevate Coaching
• Better Life

Each participating clinic is donating time, technology, and expertise to ensure first responders receive world-class care at no cost.

Together, we are building a network of hope

How Is the 266K Campaign Involved?

The 266K Campaign was launched by Axis Integrated Mental Health to address Colorado’s mental health crisis, named after the estimated 266,000 Coloradans who experience serious suicidal ideation each year.

The campaign’s mission is to connect Coloradans to life-saving mental health care—especially those who would otherwise fall through the cracks.

The First Responders Pro Bono TMS Program is one of several initiatives under the 266K banner, alongside:

• Suicide prevention education.
• Marketing and operations support for mental health clinics through the Practice Power Workshops
• Community partnerships and advocacy to expand access to advanced treatments.

Through collaboration, awareness, and action, we believe we can change the statistics—and save lives.

How to Apply for Free TMS Therapy

Applying is simple and confidential:

1. Complete the application on our First Responders landing page.
2. Schedule an evaluation with a psychiatric provider or therapy provider.
3. Begin treatment which may or may not include paid medical leave once your treatment plan has been created.

There’s no cost, no insurance paperwork, and no judgment. Just compassionate care designed to meet you where you are.