Why Former Federal Workers Need Mental Health Support

For many federal workers, federal employment used to represent pride in public service, professional identity, community, and stability, along with a sense that established rules and procedures would provide some measure of security. When that sense of security was disrupted by massive federal workforce terminations and layoffs that began in early 2025, the psychological consequences were often severe. In this Ready Living Podcast episode, Roz Beroza, LCSW-C, shares how she recognized an urgent unmet need, which led to the creation of Therapy4Feds, an online network of mental health providers offering services to discharged federal workers at no or reduced cost. The network includes psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical social workers, licensed professional counselors, and marriage and family therapists who volunteer their expertise. Roz talks about how mental health support can be an important part of dealing with the unique circumstances of destabilizing job loss among federal workers, a loss that affects not just the workers themselves, but also their family members and loved ones. This episode looks at the connection between work, identity, public service, and mental health, offering a clearer understanding of the emotional impact of massive job loss and the resources available through Therapy4Feds to help former federal workers navigate it all. LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST