Home⇛Journal of Interdisciplinary Perspectives⇛vol. 4 no. 1 (2026)

Beyond the Badge, Beyond the Hurt”: Counseling Experiences of Police Officers in a Restorative Intervention Program

Hillary N. Balderas

Discipline: psychology (non-specific)

 

Abstract:

This study explores the counseling experiences of uniformed personnel reintegrated after grave administrative offenses as part of a behavior-focused restorative intervention. While counseling is crucial to holistic healing, current practices lack standardization, which may hinder officers' full recovery. Using a qualitative phenomenological research approach, this study interviewed eight male police officers from the Police Regional Office 5. Data were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Findings revealed initial fear and resistance to counseling, which were overcome by the establishment of a supportive, nonjudgmental, and informed space. Participants reported profound self-reflection, emotional reconstruction, and restored self-efficacy through the therapeutic process, fostering trust and connection beyond rank. The study concludes that professional counseling, marked by empathy and a strong therapeutic alliance, effectively addresses barriers within law enforcement culture, leading to significant personal transformation and successful reintegration. These insights highlight the need for standardized, responsive counseling guidelines within uniformed services to enhance police mental health and operational effectiveness.



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