Our Founders
Valerie Meyers-Bitz
Co-Founder
Mental Health Leader and Advocate for First Responders
Achievements:
2025 Best of the Best - Bismarck Tribune
Valerie Meyers Bitz, MS, LPCC-S, brings a deep background in trauma-focused mental health care and a strong passion for supporting those who serve. With years of experience in counseling and mental health program development, Valerie recognized a growing need to support the emotional well-being of first responders and frontline professionals.
As Co-Founder of First Responders Recovery, Valerie partnered with Pat Haug to create a specialized program addressing the unique challenges first responders face. With an emphasis on whole-body wellness and trauma-informed care, the initiative is designed to provide first responders with the resources and support necessary to heal, grow, and sustain long-term wellness—both personally and professionally.
In addition to her work with FRR, Valerie is the Owner and CEO of The Kid’s Therapy Center, a statewide mental health clinic serving individuals of all ages. With services ranging from expressive therapies to crisis and trauma treatment, she brings a holistic and integrative approach to mental health care. Valerie is also a proud Employer Supporter of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) and continues to lead with compassion and innovation—ensuring that those who protect and serve our communities receive the same level of care in return.
Patrick Haug
Co-Founder
Law Enforcement and Mental Health Advocate for First Responders
Achievements:
2019: Patrick Haug, Letter of Recognition
Captain at Mandan Police Department
Haug brings over 30 years of experience in law enforcement, having dedicated his career to serving and protecting communities. With a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Haug has held a variety of pivotal roles including 17 years with the elite SWAT team, over 10 years in investigations, and a tenure as a School Resource Officer. Additionally, he has served as a law enforcement trainer, imparting his wealth of knowledge to new recruits and officers across the department.
Co-founder of First Responder Recovery, Haug is deeply committed to addressing the unique mental health challenges that law enforcement officers and first responders face daily. Having witnessed firsthand the emotional and psychological toll of the job, he is passionate about advocating for his peers with the supports they need to thrive both on the job and in their personal lives.
His goals for FRR are to ensure that mental health resources and quality support are readily available to those who dedicated their lives to serving and protecting.
Combining Science and Compassion for Effective Treatment
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At First Responder Recovery, we are dedicated to meeting the unique mental health needs of first responders, frontline workers, and their families. Through individualized care, we help those who serve build resilience, enhance personal well-being, and navigate the challenges of the Emergency Service field.
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Our approach combines evidence-based practices with compassionate, accessible support. We provide specialized counseling, mentorship, and integrative mental wellness services in a safe and understanding environment. Our goal is to foster healing, resilience, and long-term growth, ensuring that first responders have the tools they need to maintain positive mental health.
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Committed to both professional and volunteer first responders—we stand beside those who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving others. At First Responder Recovery, we believe that those who care for others deserve the same level of care and support in return.
Who We Serve
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At First Responder Recovery, we are dedicated to supporting those who selflessly serve and protect our communities. Our specialized care extends to:
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Law Enforcement Officers
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Emergency Medical Personnel
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Fire Service Members
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911 Dispatchers
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Child Protection Workers
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Military Personnel
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Security Forces
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Families Coping with the Loss of a Loved One
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Other Community First Responders
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Whether on the front lines or behind the scenes, we recognize the immense sacrifices made by these individuals and are committed to providing the care, support, and resources they deserve.
