Managing Stress and Trauma in First Responders: Building Resilience and Supporting Mental Health

Description: First responders are routinely exposed to high-stress situations that can lead to both acute and chronic trauma. This comprehensive training program is designed to educate first responders, supervisors, and organizational leaders on the psychological impact of emergency response work, providing them with practical tools to manage stress, recognize trauma, and build resilience. Throughout this interactive session, participants will explore the physiological and neurological effects of stress, understand the cumulative impact of trauma, and learn evidence-based strategies for helping first responders in maintaining mental well-being. The program will cover key topics such as trauma informed care specific to first responders and the role of the counselor in fostering a supportive environment. By the end of the training, participants will have a deeper understanding of mental health challenges in first responders, as well as actionable strategies to enhance their personal and professional resilience. The program will incorporate case studies, interactive discussions, and hands-on exercises to reinforce learning and encourage practical application. T his training is essential for mental health professionals working with emergency personnel, and counselors embedded with agencies who wany to help leadership implement long-term mental health initiatives within their organizations.

CE Broker Tracking Number: 20-1314592

Learning Objectives:

1. Recognize and Understand Stress & Trauma: Define acute and chronic stress, as well as Big "T" and Little "T" trauma, and understand their cumulative effects on first responders. Identify the physiological and psychological impact of stress on the brain and body.
2. Develop Resilience and Coping Strategies: Learn how to teach first responders evidence-based techniques for helping first responders manage stress, including cognitive reframing, mindfulness, and healthy lifestyle habits. 
3. Promote a Supportive Culture: Understand the role of the counselor in reducing stigma, fostering open discussions, and providing mental health resources that work for first responders.

This event is sponsored by FMHCA, an NBCC-Approved Continuing Education Provider. FMHCA NBCC Provider# 2058. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified.  FMHCA is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

About the Presenters:

Meredith Moran, Ed.D., LMHC, CCTP is a dedicated professional with over two decades of experience in the fields of counseling, criminology, and law enforcement. Dr. Moran earned her Doctor of Education in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University in 2008, with a dissertation focused on the stressors experienced by male and female police officers. She also holds a Master of Arts in Criminology and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology, both from the University of South Florida. Currently, Dr. Moran serves as the Senior Academic Program Coordinator at St. Petersburg College, where she conducts marketing outreach and program coordination for the Applied Mental Health Certificate for First Responders. In addition to her academic role, she owns and operates Front Line Wellness, providing mental health counseling with a specialty in trauma, and incorporating animal-assisted therapy into her practice. Dr. Moran’s career is marked by her extensive work in substance abuse and mental health counseling, including significant roles at Operation PAR, where she held positions ranging from Counselor to Administrative Director. She is also a published author and frequent presenter at conferences, focusing on critical topics such as trauma-informed care, substance abuse, and mental health among first responders. Her research interests include suicide prevention, PTSD, and gender-related stress, reflecting her ongoing commitment to advancing knowledge and improving practices in these critical areas. Dr. Moran is an active member of several professional organizations and continues to contribute to the field through both her clinical work and academic endeavors.

Mary Farrand Police Chief | Law Enforcement Instructor | Criminal Justice Professional. Mary Farrand is a dedicated law enforcement professional with over two decades of experience in policing, leadership, and criminal justice education. She currently serves as a Police Commander at the Gulfport Police Department, where she has held progressive roles since 2001. Her career began as a Police Officer, advancing to Sergeant, and ultimately to her current leadership position. Prior to law enforcement, she worked as a Communications Telecommunicator at the Clearwater Police Department. Mary holds a Master of Science in Criminal Justice with a focus on Behavioral Studies from Saint Leo University and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Criminal Justice Administration from St. Petersburg College. She has also earned an Associate of Arts degree in Liberal Arts. A certified law enforcement instructor, Mary has successfully completed extensive training in areas such as child abuse investigations, field training, domestic intervention, officer discipline, internal affairs, and crisis intervention. She is also a Force Science Analyst, a Speed Measurement Instructor, and an expert in managing field training officer programs. Passionate about officer development and public safety, Mary is committed to fostering a culture of professionalism, accountability, and community engagement within law enforcement.

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