Mental Visualization and High Performance: Psychological Tools for First Responders. In this powerful episode of Beneath the Helmet, retired Fire Chief and resilience coach Arjuna George sits down with licensed psychologist Dr. Brendan Guarino, Director of Guardians for Guardians at Baker Street Behavioral Health. Together, they explore the cutting-edge mental performance tools used by athletes, military professionals, and now first responders.
Dr. Guarino reveals how mental visualization, biofeedback, and SMART goal setting can help firefighters, police officers, and EMS personnel enhance their mental resilience, manage operational stress injuries, and prepare for life beyond the badge.
From helping clients mentally rehearse critical incident scenarios to transitioning out of high-performance roles after retirement, this conversation delivers practical strategies for maintaining peak performance while protecting your mental health.
💡 Topics Covered:
How first responders can use mental visualization to build confidence under pressure
The role of biofeedback in regulating stress and nervous system responses
Creating structure and identity after retirement or injury
The importance of goal setting, celebrating wins, and having a self-care blueprint
How to separate work and home life using transition rituals like the “hat on the hook” technique
Whether you're preparing for a high-stakes call or planning your next chapter after a career of service, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you thrive.
00:00 Visualizing Success: Mental Techniques for First Responders Brendan Guarino Ep
00:23 Meet Dr. Brendan Guino
01:30 Dr. Guino's Background and Journey
03:35 Challenges and Realizations
10:25 Biofeedback and Visualization Techniques
18:12 Transitioning from Athlete to Psychologist
19:33 The Importance of Structure and Finding New Passions
24:44 Planning for the Future and Gap Years
28:43 Understanding the Blueprint of Life
28:49 Transitioning from Athlete to Coach
29:20 Teaching and Developmental Psychology
30:40 Planning for Life After First Response
31:55 Finding Purpose Beyond Work
34:14 Setting and Achieving Goals
42:39 The Importance of Self-Care
54:55 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
📞 Connect with Dr. Brendan Guarino
Dr. Brendan Guarino, Psy.D
Licensed Psychologist | Director of Guardians for Guardians
Baker Street Behavioral Health
Serving First Responders and Their Families Across the U.S.
Website: Baker Street Behavioral Health https://bakerstreetpsych.com/
Arjuna George - Fire Chief (ret)
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