July 9, 2025

Forging FDNY’s Mental Health Model | S5 E28

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Forging FDNY’s Mental Health Model | S5 E28

In this compelling episode, we sit down with Lieutenant Andrew Kane, a seasoned veteran of the FDNY with three decades of experience. Drew was on the front lines at Ground Zero during 9/11 and has committed his life to supporting firefighters and their families in navigating mental health and substance abuse challenges.

In this compelling episode, we sit down with Lieutenant Andrew Kane, a seasoned veteran of the FDNY with three decades of experience. Drew was on the front lines at Ground Zero during 9/11 and has committed his life to supporting firefighters and their families in navigating mental health and substance abuse challenges. As the Deputy Director of the FDNY Counseling Services Unit, he brings invaluable insights into behavioral health trends and the future of fire service wellness. 

We tackle pressing issues affecting first responders, including trauma, effective mental health support strategies, and ways to cultivate a healthier culture within the firefighting community. Tune in for practical advice and thought-provoking perspectives that could make a real difference for those who serve on the front lines.

 

Thanks to our resource partner, Circl Brain. Because the toughest battles deserve the sharpest minds. Go to https://www.circlbrain.com/ or contact sales@circlbrain.com

Thanks also to our resource partner, the First Responder Center for Excellence, https://firstrespondercenter.org

Thanks to our resource partner, CRACKYL. Download the FREE CRACKYL App: http://crackyl.respondertv.com

 

Contact Andrew Kane:
andrew.kane@fdny.nyc.gov

 

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Andrew Kane Profile Photo

Andrew Kane

Deputy Director FDNY Counseling Service Unit

Drew Kane is a 30yr veteran of the New York City Fire Department. For 12 years, Lieutenant Kane was assigned as a firefighter to Engine Company 37 in Harlem, and on September 11, 2001, Lt. Kane responded to the World Trade Center site. There, he continued to participate in search and rescue efforts for many months following the event. His experience as a first responder, especially his response to 9/11, fostered his desire and passion to assist other firefighters and their family members who struggle with substance use disorder and other mental health disorders.

In 2004, Lt. Kane was assigned to the New York City Fire Department’s Counseling Service Unit (FDNY-CSU) as a peer/substance abuse counselor within the Addiction Treatment Program. In 2009 he graduated with a master’s degree in social work from Hunter College School of Social Work. He holds a license in social work from New York State and is a Credentialed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (CASAC).

In 2009, Lt. Kane was promoted to Program Director of the Addiction Treatment Program. As Program Director, Lt. Kane was responsible for the supervision of the daily operations of this unit and its staff of licensed mental health professionals. He managed clinical interventions for firefighters and their families, as well as group and individual counseling.

In 2020, Lt. Kane was promoted to Deputy Director of the FDNY-CSU. The CSU is comprised of six sites throughout the metropolitan area that serve the 16,000 active members of the FDNY and their families, addressing behavioral, mental health … Read More