Gentle Pathways · London, Ontario
First Responder Support – London, ON
Support from someone who has worked on the front lines.
Paulina Dysko brings firsthand experience of frontline child protection to her therapy work with first responders. She spent more than 12 years with the Children’s Aid Society of London & Middlesex, including forensic work and serving as a Child Protection Supervisor. Working alongside police on some of London’s most challenging child-protection cases, she encountered traumatic events and the responsibility of responding when children and families were in crisis.
That experience informs the care she offers today: room to talk about difficult calls, cumulative stress, and what follows you home, at a pace that respects your needs. Whether you are a paramedic, firefighter, police officer, dispatcher, or another first responder, you can begin with what matters to you.
Book an appointmentIn-person in London · Virtual across Ontario
With Paulina Dysko, registered social worker and psychotherapist
Start where you are
Find the support that speaks to you
You may be finding it hard to switch off after a shift, feeling disconnected at home, or simply looking for ways to care for your wellbeing. Choose a resource that fits what is on your mind today.
Everyday wellbeing
How physical health can support mental health for first responders
Explore realistic ways to make room for movement, sleep, food, hydration, and recovery around demanding shifts.
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After the call
Managing stress as a 911 dispatcher
When the calls stay with you, start with a resource written for the pressures of dispatch work.
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Therapy options
EMDR therapy for first responders
Learn about EMDR and questions to bring to a conversation about whether this approach may fit your needs.
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Life in policing
Mental health in policing
Explore the emotional demands of policing and consider what support could look like for you.
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Understanding your options
A guide to first responders therapy
Find a starting point for understanding counselling, asking questions, and deciding what you need.
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Finding steadiness
Understanding trauma responses
Learn about the ways stress and trauma can affect the body, and explore Gentle Pathways’ approach to support.
Explore this resourceA conversation at your pace
Counselling with room for your experience
Resources can offer a starting point. Counselling creates space to explore how the work is affecting you, what matters to you, and what support may fit your circumstances.
Paulina specializes in supporting first responders using techniques such as EMDR and other evidence-based trauma therapies. At Gentle Pathways, the work begins with understanding your needs and considering a manageable pace together.
About Our PracticeWhat getting started can look like
- Choose an appointmentUse Jane to view booking options for in-person counselling in London or virtual appointments across Ontario.
- Begin with what matters nowTalk about the concerns you want help with and ask questions about the fit.
- Consider your next step togetherDiscuss goals, practical supports, and therapy options appropriate to your needs.
Questions before you begin
Do I need to have experienced a major incident?
You can seek support for cumulative stress, difficulties switching off, relationships, or other concerns. You do not need to label your experience before reaching out.
Do I have to describe a difficult call right away?
You can begin with the concerns that feel manageable to discuss and talk with Paulina about the pace of counselling. The initial conversation can focus on what you need now.
Will my employer know I’m in therapy?
No. Nothing about your counselling is shared with your employer without your written consent.
Can I meet virtually?
Gentle Pathways offers virtual appointments across Ontario, as well as in-person appointments in London.
Can I use my benefits?
Coverage depends on your plan. Ask your insurer whether services from a registered social worker are covered and what documentation is required. Read the practice’s appointment and fee information.
Start with what you need today
You do not need to have everything figured out before reaching out. Bring the concerns that matter to you, and we can consider the next step together.
Book an appointment