Mental Health And Therapy Episodes

In this impactful episode, we address the vital mental health challenges faced by EMS and first responders, including post-traumatic stress and the effects of "buffing" calls—responding to emergencies off-duty.

Tune in for a candid conversation highlighting behavioral health's critical role in emergency services. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Frank Leto (Ret.), Captain and Deputy Director of the FDNY Counseling Service Unit (CSU), to discuss the profound impact of 9/11 on firefighter behavioral health. Join us as we delve into the challenges of establishing the CSU in the aftermath of the attacks, gaining buy-in for peer support programs, and the memorable successes showcasing mental health support's importance for first responders.

In this episode of our clinician masterclass series, we dive into the unique challenges faced by wildland firefighters and specialized law enforcement units like the Border Patrol, FBI, US Marshals, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms. Join psychologist Dr. Robbie Adler-Tapia as she shares essential strategies and techniques for addressing the trauma and stress experienced by these responders.

Join us for an enlightening episode as we speak with Battalion Chief Dena Ali, the Program Manager for Behavioral Health at the First Responder Center for Excellence. In this discussion, we explore her groundbreaking new book, *Hope Out of Darkness: A Guide to First Responder Mental Wellness*.

In this essential installment of the Clinician's Guide Masterclass, we focus on strategies for clinicians to work effectively with first responders. We will hear from four mental health therapists who have successfully developed practices centered on serving emergency services. Kurt Fuchs, LCSW, Kristin Lewis, LMFT, Bonnie Luft, LPC and Jennifer Spirito, LCSW are members of the Fairfield County Trauma Response Team (FCTRT).

In this episode, we talk with Vinnie Montez, a retired Colorado Sheriff's Office commander and current Public Information Officer who has made a name for himself as a nationally touring stand-up comedian. Vinnie shares stories from his dual career paths, illustrating how humor has been a valuable tool in law enforcement. We delve into his documentary, "Vinnie-isms: The Story of the Cop Comedian," which chronicles his journey and has been submitted to multiple film festivals. The discussion also touches on Vinnie's future plans, including the National Heroes Off Duty Comedy Tour in 2025 and performances for the U.S. Military in Poland, showcasing his unique blend of comedy and service. This episode offers a deep dive into how Vinnie's experiences in both fields have shaped his identity and outlook.

Daniel Sundahl, acclaimed artist and retired paramedic/firefighter, presents "Post-Traumatic Growth—Finding Benefits Within Challenges." He will take us on a visual narrative of resilience and transformation as we view and listen to his personal story of post-traumatic growth. Through a powerful narrative interwoven with his unique photo art, Daniel shares his transformative journey from battling the demons of occupational stress to finding solace and strength in his creative expressions. Join us as we explore the intersection of art, trauma, and personal growth, and learn how to find benefits within the challenges we face. ​Don't miss this opportunity to connect with Daniel's moving story and discover ways to navigate your own journey toward mental well-being.

In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Dedmon, the dedicated Outreach Director for the 911 Training Institute and a retired police dispatcher from Southern California. Ryan is on a mission to help 911 professionals recover from and grow beyond post-traumatic stress. We investigate the pressing staffing crisis affecting 911 centers across the nation, and explore the concrete tools that public safety telecommunicators can employ to manage job-related stress and burnout. Join us for a compelling conversation that challenges you to reflect on the support systems in place for our “first” first responders and consider how we can all contribute to their wellbeing.

We continue our deep dive for mental health clinicians and savvy first responders into "Clinician’s Guide to Working with Firefighters" with Part 2 featuring Dr. Kristen Wheldon. As the President and Founder of the Fire Service Psychology Association, Dr. Wheldon brings a wealth of experience and passion for enhancing the behavioral health of firefighters and their families. Join us as we explore critical topics such as the definition and development of cultural competency in the fire service, and the unique challenges clinicians face when working with this population. Dr. Wheldon shares insights on common biases that clinicians may encounter and the differences in therapeutic approaches needed for firefighters compared to the general public.

Join us in this wide-ranging episode as we sit down with Eric Reynolds, a retired Boynton Beach police officer, sports nutritionist, and personal trainer, to explore his remarkable journey. We converse about Eric's transition from law enforcement to health and wellness advocacy. We explore the founding of KetoFiveO and Cops and Campers, two initiatives Eric launched to address the unique needs of first responders. What inspired these ventures, and how do they make a difference?

In this information-packed masterclass episode for clinicians and savvy first responders, we sit down with Dr. John M. Violanti, PhD, a Full Research Professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health at the University at Buffalo, N.Y. Dr. Violanti brings a wealth of knowledge from his 23-year tenure with the New York State Police, where he served in various capacities including trooper, criminal investigator, and coordinator of the State Police Psychological Assistance Program (EAP). We discuss the pressing issue of health among police officers in America, and Dr. Violanti's insights into the psychological toll of policing, examining both the immediate and long-term impacts of stress and trauma on officers' mental well-being.

In this installment of our masterclass series for clinicians and savvy first responders, we examine the fine points of working with firefighters. Our guest, Robbie Adler-Tapia, Ph.D., Psychologist and EMDRIA Approved Consultant/Certified Therapist, will guide us through the unique challenges and stresses that firefighters face in their line of work. We will explore cultural competence and key strategies therapists can use to effectively address trauma and stress experienced by fire service personnel. Tune in for an insightful discussion on supporting this unique profession and culture.

In this masterclass episode for mental health clinicians and savvy first responders, we examine the dynamics of mental health and therapy for military veterans who have transitioned into roles as first responders. Joining us is our resident EMDR trauma therapist Stacy Raymond, PsyD, an expert in mental health for this extraordinary group. The daughter of a retired police officer and US Marine, Stacy brings a wealth of personal and professional insight to the table. Dr. Raymond shares invaluable pro tips that every clinician and agency leader needs to know to effectively support veterans dealing with post-traumatic stress and other job-related issues.

In this episode, we invite you to join us for a profound conversation with Dr. Tracy Hejmanowski, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the visionary Founder of the First Responder Project. Dr. Hejmanowski brings a wealth of experience from her work consulting with multiple Florida Sheriff’s Offices, the Air Force’s Ready Firefighter Program, and the Navy. Together, we will explore powerful concepts such as "Stress Inoculation," the "Path of Least Resistance," and the "Exposure Catalog"—all of which play crucial roles in maintaining the mental health and operational readiness of first responders.

On this special edition of Responder Resilience, we invite you to join an enlightening masterclass tailored for clinicians, featuring trauma therapists Dr. Nicole Navega, PhD, LCSW, and Bonnie Rumilly, LCSW, EMT. With their extensive backgrounds in providing therapy to EMS and 911 emergency professionals, Nicole and Bonnie bring a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of the unique challenges these first responders face. Whether you are just beginning your journey in working with first responders or already have an established practice, today's conversation promises to be incredibly insightful. Nicole and Bonnie will delve into the critical aspects of offering empathetic and effective therapeutic support to these essential professionals.

In this dynamic episode encore, Stacy and David sit down with the remarkable Dr. Olivia Johnson, Founder of the Blue Wall Institute. They dive into one of the most pressing issues in law enforcement today: police officer suicide. The conversation catapults into the deep, dark waters of why so many officers are taking their own lives. Dr. Johnson unveils her groundbreaking “Fatal 10” – the ten most common factors contributing to these tragic decisions. This episode isn't just informative; it’s a call to action, urging listeners to rethink and reshape the mental health landscape for those who serve and protect. Plus Olivia updates us on her new project, Shepherds & Sheepdogs, LTD.

Responder Resilience plunges you straight into the heart of the therapist's office, where unspoken tales of adrenaline and pain swirl like a storm. Dr. Stacy Raymond and Bonnie Rumilly, LCSW-EMT, seasoned veterans on a mission to improve mental wellness, pull back the curtain on therapy, offering an exclusive glimpse into the clinician’s world where rescuers come to be healed. They tackle the tough questions head-on and demystify therapy, armed with facts and fueled by their years of experience. The road to resilience starts here!

On this compelling episode, we reunite three distinguished law enforcement veterans: retired Chief John Monaghan, retired Chief Douglas Wyman, and retired New Hampshire State Police Sergeant James Steinmetz. These three friends, previously featured in the impactful film "Inside the Box," come together once more to delve into profound discussions on camaraderie, support, and the journey of healing and growth following service-related trauma.

Responder Resilience welcomes Acting Fire Chief David Motes and Command Counseling founder Marie Gumá, sharing insights on their groundbreaking mental health program for Clay County Fire Rescue. They shed light on the critical need and their collaborative efforts, emphasizing the program's impact on recruitment, retention, and the overall safety and wellness of firefighters.

This episode isn't just about hardships; it's about resilience. Join us as we uncover the strength of the human spirit, as seen through the journey of retired Hartford Police Department Captain Rob Rudewicz, sharing his career and personal battles with addiction, depression, and surviving stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Rob highlights traditional and non-traditional police roles, including serving as acting chief. He discusses his contribution to "The Expanding Man Chronicles," showcasing personal transformation and recovery.

Tune in to this new episode as we explore the mental health challenges faced by first responders, through the lens of Captain Chris Moore's personal and professional experiences with post-traumatic stress. He discusses Adverse Childhood Experiences Scores (ACES), alcohol use, faith in the fire service, and the Save a Warrior program. Captain Moore emphasizes the importance of comprehensive mental health care and community support for recovery.

Join us in this unprecedented behind-the-badge episode as we focus on the heartbreak of infidelity with law enforcement veteran, author, and coach John Kelly.

In this special episode, Officer Pete Elste (Crisis Intervention Team Coordinator), Firefighter Pete Nichio, Bonnie Rumilly, LCSW-EMT, and Scott Alvord, LCSW (Crisis Intervention Clinician), come together for Real Talk: Stress vs Serenity. Under the theme of "This too shall pass," they explore strength in vulnerability and recovery from job-related trauma.

Get ready to meet firefighter/paramedic Jason Patton, the creative genius behind Fire Department Chronicles.