About this course

Learning Objectives

• Identify key aspects of first responder culture and how these cultural dynamics impact engagement, help-seeking behaviors, and therapeutic rapport.
• Apply trauma-informed models to complex trauma presentations common among first responders, with attention to occupational stressors and cumulative exposure.
• Integrate principles of post-traumatic growth and trauma-focused interventions that promote resilience, address moral injury, and support recovery from complex trauma.

Learning Levels

• Beginner

Course Instructor(s)

• 

  Samuel M Simon, NCPRS

  I am a 20-year veteran first responder and National Certified Peer Specialist completing a master’s in social work with a Specialization in Trauma at Barry University and a bachelor’s in criminal justice from The University of Miami, with certifications in CISM, CIT, CCFT. I provide one-on-one peer support and supervision as well as host monthly peer support group meetings to military and first responders in conjunction with Bleeding Blue Foundation. I have experience working with victims of crime and abuse through Survivors Pathway through clinical social work and with inpatient clients with chronic mental health issues. I provide training in first responder wellness and cultural competency for clinicians interested in working with the first responder community. Complimentary and anonymous monthly meetings are held at our location every third Saturday of the month and open to any active or retired first responder or military service personnel seeking support, direction and connection with others on their journey.

• 

  Vania Simon, LMHC

  MS is Counseling Psychology from Nova Southeastern University, 2006, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Qualified Supervisor.

  Trained as a complex-trauma provider-level II, compassion fatigue, CISM, EMDR, TF-CBT, MBSR, First Responder Provider vetted through Red-Line Rescue, victim advocate professional, working with trauma informed care and first responders since 2014.

Disclosure

References

• Boulder Crest Foundation Presents: Reborn. YouTube. Boulder Crest Foundation (Boulder Crest Foundation). Sep 14, 2023
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• Chopko, B. A., Palmieri, P. A., & Adams, R. E. (2015). Critical incident history questionnaire replication: Frequency and severity of trauma exposure among officers from small and midsize police agencies. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 28(2), 157–161. https://doi.org/10.1002/jts.21996
• Curan, L. BCPC, LPC, CACD, CCDP-D (2010). TRAUMA COMPETENCY, A CLINICIAN’S GUIDE, Pesi Publishing.
• Dachinger, D., Rumilly. B., Raymond, S. (2025). Helping the Helpers: The Clinician's Guide to First Responder Mental Wellness
• Faulk, K. and Goldberg, J. (2018, May) Struggle Well: Thriving in the Aftermath of Trauma. Lioncrest Publishing.
• Hastins, E. (2024, November 21). “Firefighter Syndrome”: A Unique Constellation of Interrelated Medical, Social, and Psychological Conditions. https://www.firefighternation.com/health-wellness/firefighter- mental-health/firefighter-syndrome-a-unique-constellation-of-interrelated-medical-social-and- psychological-conditions/
• Herman, J.L., MD, (1998b, 2002, January 4). “Recovery from psychological trauma”. Journal of Psychiatry and Clinical Sciences. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1440-1819.1998.0520s5S145.x
• Herman, J.L., MD. (1992, 2006, February 19). Complex PTSD: A syndrome in survivors of prolonged and repeated trauma. International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, https://doi.org/10.1002/jts.2490050305
• More about me. Firstresponders. (n.d.). https://www.firstrespondersinitiative.org/more-about- me#:~:text=While%20the%20national%20divorce%20rate,averages%20between%2060%2D75%25.
• SAMHSA. (2018b, May). First Responders: Behavioral Health Concerns, emergency ... www.samhsa.gov. ttps://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/dtac/supplementalresearchbulletin-firstresponders- may2018.pdf
• SAMHSA. (2014). Trauma-Informed Care in Behavioral Health Services. Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) Series 57. HHS Publication No. (SMA) 13-4801. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
• Seigel, D., MD. (2018, August 21). Aware: The Science and Practice of Presence. Tarcher Perigee Publishing.
• The numbers. Blue H.E.L.P. (2023a, April 12). https://bluehelp.org/the-numbers/