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Corrections officers, law enforcement professionals and first responders operate in high-trauma environments that demand resilience and composure in the face of constant stress. But how often do they consider the toll this work takes on their physical, mental, and emotional health? Do their loved ones understand why they lash out or shut down so often?
In Stop Letting the Job Become Your Life, author Vanessa Lake, a licensed clinical social worker, offers a lifeline to those serving in these intense roles, starting with a hard truth: the stress, trauma, and high stakes of this work can have devastating consequences if left unchecked. Acknowledging these realities is the first step toward healing.
This practical resource equips officers with
Trauma-processing techniques that ensure they properly process and release traumatic events
Tools to manage intense symptoms like nightmares, hypervigilance, and panic attacks
Strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being
Work-life balance tips so they can thrive on and off the job
Guidance for navigating the transition out of the profession, whether through retirement or a new career path
Packed with real-world advice and actionable steps, Stop Letting the Job Become Your Life is not just a survival guide—it’s a blueprint for reclaiming control, healing from trauma, and building a life outside the uniform.
They’ve spent their career protecting others. Now, it’s time they protect themselves.
Amazon Reviews
Go check it out for yourself: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DS56T4YF
Vanessa has a wealth of experience working with Corrections Officers and knows the pain and trauma they live with daily. She is highly recommended and has a huge heart, working hard for her clients and supporting them as they perform an often thankless job - keeping us all safe, but at what cost to them and their families.
Vanessa has taken a largely ignored and hated group of people and revealed their plight. However, unlike many who would call it good at just bringing attention to the problem so that it can be talked about for five minutes by politicians then forgotten. Her approach is to try and help those who are affected, no matter if that is the people who perform these jobs, or those who see them struggle through everyday life.
This book has also helped gain even more insight into everyday struggles my husband faces as a CO. There are VERY few books focusing in on this population so it is so exciting to finally have something that recognizes this field! Anyone who works in a high adrenaline and traumatizing environment will benefit from reading this book. 10/10 recommend! Also check out her website that has a ton of good insights into coping skills and psycho education!
Vanessa Lake, LCSW is a mental health therapist for corrections officers and employees of high-adrenaline jobs who are dealing with trauma, anxiety, and burnout. She’s affectionately referred to as the Purple Couch Lady because she does in fact have a purple therapy couch. Vanessa is a certified EFT practitioner and a certified Reiki practitioner.