The 911 Wellness Group provides compassionate, effective, and necessary mental health services to active and retired members of Northern Illinois’s First Responder community – Law Enforcement, Firefighters, Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), Emergency Telecommunicators, US Military/Veterans, their families, and respective agencies.
Born from a desire to improve the quality of life for those who serve others, 911 Wellness is a company built by and for individuals with personal histories in the First Responder community. We understand the issues, the conflicts, the daily routines, and the traumatic situations that can affect personal health and on-the-job performance.
We offer personalized, accessible, discreet care that is purpose-built to address the unique challenges faced in the line of duty. With a singular focus on First Responder needs, we help both individuals and agencies address mental health in a productive and proactive manner.
In January of 2021, after 25 years of service to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office in Illinois, Chris and Karyn Thompson decided it was time for Chris to retire.
Through retirement travels and evolving life experiences, the couple met some extraordinary individuals whose passion and commitment to the mental wellbeing of First Responders and members of the US Military was unparalleled. The common desire to serve those who serve others brought them together with co-founders Dr. Liza Franklin and April Villagran, inspiring the creation of the 911 Wellness Group.
Each member of the 911 Wellness Group brings something special to the team and our amazing clients.
The 911 Wellness Group believes that by meshing the expertise of these dedicated, proven professionals, we can serve our First Responders and US Military with honor, humility, and compassion. We are the 911 Wellness Group.
April Villagran has dedicated 13+ years to administrative work, with 6 years dedicated to insurance billing and insurance credentialing in the mental health field. She holds an Associates degree in Business Administration and has a passion for serving and advocating for people’s needs. April has managed multiple successful private practices and non-profit organizations. April is committed to ensuring seamless operations and exceptional support for all.
April’s personal life is just as fulfilling, as she and her husband are proud parents to four beautiful children and one fur baby. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and, perhaps surprisingly, running.
Simply reach out to 911 Wellness, and we will schedule a consultation with one of our professional clinicians. All patient contacts and information provided is strictly confidential. Asking for help is the first step to wellness — we’re here to help.
We do accept insurance: BCBS PPO plan, United Healthcare, UMR, Cigna PPO, Aetna, and Medicare. Bills for all therapy sessions will be submitted to the client’s insurance. Clients are responsible for any copays and deductibles until bill HB4460 goes into effect on 06/01/2025. If the client decides to not use insurance, then the client is responsible for out-of-pocket expenses.
Illinois State Legislative Bill Number HB4460
This bill requires the State Employees Group Insurance Program to provide coverage for joint mental health therapy services for any Illinois State Police Officer or members of self-insured fire protection districts and any spouse or partner of the officer who resides with the officer.
Effective: January 1, 2025
The federal government funds officer wellness grants that can be used to create or support officer wellness programs. Other federal agencies, such as the National Institute of Health and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, offer grants related to mental health. In fact, President Biden announced $68 million in new grants related to suicide prevention on September 10, 2024. Most of the grants can be found on the offering agency’s website. Grants typically require a showing that the agency’s officers need wellness services and that those services could address the need. The 911 Wellness Group can craft a survey that assesses the agency’s needs, handle the statistical analysis of that data, craft the grant applications, and handle the grant administration. Contact us to learn more.
ADDICTION
www.samhsa.gov
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America’s communities. It provides helpful links and information about addiction, latest research, and tools.
www.aa.org
Alcoholics Anonymous® is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for AA membership; The primary purpose of the group is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.
www.al-anon.org
Al-Anon is an alcoholic anonymous group specifically for family members and loved ones so that they have an opportunity to better understand the disease and experience their loved ones are going through. In addition, the group provides support and assist to members who feel helpless and can use some support during difficult times.
MOOD DISORDERS
www.ptsd.va.gov
The national center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a great resource for individuals experiencing any PTSD symptoms and for families looking for additional tools and support.
www.adaa.org
The Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to the prevention, treatment, and cure of anxiety disorders and to improving the lives of all people who suffer from them.
DEALING WITH GRIEF AND LOSS (for children)
How to Explain Death to a Child
HELPLINE AND CRISIS INFORMATION
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