Mental health and addiction treatment for first responders, military and veterans
The Guardians Program is specifically designed for first responders, military personnel, and veterans who have experienced the unique challenge of protecting, serving and guarding their fellow citizens. Clinical experience has shown that these individuals can relate to one another’s experiences in a powerful way, and the treatment offered at Ravensview is built around this reality.
About the Guardians Program
This evidence-based program recognizes the unique needs of this population, which may include exposure to traumatic situations, depression, anxiety, and addiction. The program is built on decades of recognized expertise in treating this group as well as Homewood’s 140+ years of clinical experience.
During an inpatient treatment period of up to 9 weeks, clients connect with our specialized healthcare team and other treatment participants in group therapy and one-to-one counselling sessions. They also receive cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, occupational therapy, and recreational and expressive therapies.
Treatment is delivered in mixed groups and also in groups composed of their peers so that they can share their unique experiences of work-related traumatic events. These shared experiences are an extremely powerful and important part of treatment.
Watch this webinar for more insight on the unique benefits of inpatient care, the critical role of the therapeutic environment, and the intentional design behind Homewood’s Guardians program.
Gambling Disorder
Gambling Disorder presents a heightened risk for military members and veterans, where exposure to high‑stress environments, trauma, transitions out of service, and a culture of risk‑taking can increase vulnerability. Gambling may begin as a means of escape or stimulation but can quickly develop into a compulsive pattern with serious financial, emotional, and occupational consequences. Too often, symptoms go unnoticed or untreated until the impact becomes severe. Homewood Guardians program provides trauma‑informed, evidence‑based care that understands the unique experiences of those who have served. Our approach can address Gambling Disorder alongside operational stress injuries, PTSD, depression, and substance use – as we recognize that recovery is strongest when the whole person is treated.
Measurement-based care: A case study
Homewood Ravensview is committed to advancing evidence-based approaches that improve outcomes for those we serve. Our recent peer-reviewed article, “Measurement-based care in a Canadian treatment program for first responders, military personnel, and Veterans: A case study,” published in the Journal of Military, Veteran and Family Health, examines how measurement-based care (MBC) was successfully implemented within a specialized Canadian mental health and addictions program.
Drawing on data from a digital MBC platform, the study found patient engagement and clinical outcomes exceeding national benchmarks, while also highlighting the practical challenges of implementation and the importance of training and clinical leadership. Together, these insights demonstrate how structured, measurement-driven care can strengthen treatment and improve outcomes for individuals with complex mental health needs.
Significant reduction in trauma symptoms
Guardians program clients are assessed at intake and discharge using multiple methods, including a self-rated assessment tool. Based on the most recent results, over 80% of clients showed marked improvement in trauma symptoms at program completion.
We also monitor client satisfaction regularly to assist with quality control and to ensure Homewood Ravensview clients receive the highest quality care. Based on the data collected, the program met the needs of nearly 90% of clients, and 86% of clients would recommend this program.
Guardians Testimonial
Ravensview alumnus Assunta Aquino is the 2025 Invictus Games alpine skiing gold medallist. Before, the Canadian war veteran was able to achieve success on the slopes, she had to overcome years of trauma sustained in her military career. Hear her story as she explains how seeking treatment changed her life.
Who is eligible for the program?
We welcome first responders, military personnel, and veterans from all walks of life, all cultural backgrounds, all genders, and all religions.
We recognize that people are complex, and the program is designed to help with complex and multi-dimensional problems such as:
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder triggered by exposure to upsetting or disturbing events or experiences.
- Mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, burnout, and excessive work-related stress.
- Substance use disorders and addictions involving alcohol, illicit drugs, opiates and other pharmaceuticals.
- Trauma caused by moral injury including operational stress, and exposure to distressing psychological, behavioural and/or social events.
- Complex presentations and co-occurring mental health and substance issues
Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) and Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) health identification cards accepted. If you have a claim with your provincial Worker’s Compensation Board, mental health & addiction treatment may be supported. Talk to your WCB Case Manager for more information.
Partnered with Wounded Warriors Canada
A national partnership between Wounded Warriors Canada and Homewood Health is working to enhance mental health care for veterans, first responders and their families by streamlining access to compassionate, evidence-based treatment.
Endorsed by BCPFFA
Ravensview partners with First Responder Health to coordinate occupational awareness training for our healthcare professionals and clinicians who work with public safety professionals and our services are endorsed by BCPFFA.
Evidence-based care
Ravensview is part of Homewood Health, a nationally renowned provider with over 140 years of experience delivering private, medically based services for mental health, addiction and co-occurring disorders.
Expert team
Integrated treatment is delivered by a dedicated, interdisciplinary team consisting of a psychiatrist, addiction medicine physician, psychologist, psychotherapist, social workers, counsellors and 24/7 nursing care.
Family involvement
Ravensview believes in supporting families and creating mutually beneficial partnerships. Engagement with families in assessment, treatment planning, and a dedicated family session helps us to better understand the individual’s needs and to develop a plan to sustain recovery after treatment.
Exceptional facility
Minutes from Victoria, B.C. and situated within a serene and private 28-acre forest, Ravensview is a world-class facility featuring spacious guestrooms with ensuite bathrooms and 180-degree views of the mountains and ocean.
We Understand First Responder Needs
Ravensview has partnered with First Responder Health to provide occupational awareness training to Ravensview staff. This training is designed for healthcare professionals and clinicians who work with public safety professionals including firefighters, police officers, paramedics, dispatchers, and corrections staff.
Ravensview is committed to providing accessible, culturally competent mental healthcare support for first responders and emergency workers by better understanding their unique occupational cultures, trauma and the challenges these individuals face.
Other Programs
Young adults
The My Path Program is an inpatient treatment program tailored to the needs of young adults aged 19+ who struggle with mental health, addiction, or co-occurring disorders. The program includes a wide variety of therapeutic activities to support recovery. Clients are supported by a team of specialists, including a psychiatrist, psychologist, a 24-hour nursing staff and a variety of other helping professionals.
Adults
The Cornerstone Program at Ravensview is Western Canada’s leading mental health and addiction treatment program for adults. Drawing on Homewood’s 140+ years of clinical experience and treatment excellence, this inpatient program provides highly effective, evidence-based, physician-led treatment for mental health, addiction, and co-occurring disorders.