Exclusively for IAFF members.
It’s okay to ask for help.

Treatment for successful recovery from substance abuse, PTSD and
other behavioral health issues.

In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the IAFF Center of Excellence has created some helpful resources for our patients and their families.

Our Center

The IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery is a one-of-a-kind treatment facility specializing in PTSD for professional fire service members who struggle with trauma, substance use, addiction and other related behavioral health challenges. It is a safe haven for members to receive the help they need in taking the first steps toward recovery and share experiences with other members who have faced or overcome similar challenges.

gym and fitness center at IAFF

Thoughtful Design

Designed from the ground up with fire fighters in mind, the Center sits on a 15-acre campus and includes a state-of-the-art gym and other features that encourage physical activity to help in recovery and preparing to return to the job.
outdoor space at IAFF

Natural Serenity

Located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, just outside Washington, D.C., the IAFF Center is surrounded by lush pine forest and features onsite areas for reflection and enjoying nature’s healing powers.

members sitting at table at IAFF

Knowledgeable Staff

The IAFF Center is overseen by Craig L. Katz, M.D., who designed a program for first responders in the aftermath of 9/11, and Abby Morris, M.D., an expert in the behavioral healthcare field. We understand the rigors of your job, and know what it takes to help.

What Our Patients Say

Matt V.
Matt V.
18:46 21 Mar 23
The IAFF has realized the importance of mental health in their members, and the complete lack of care options from municipalities. They created a haven where firefighters can come together for 5-6 weeks and instead of helping other people, they can focus on helping themselves. The results are nothing short of extraordinary.All that said, their business office needs some work. Billing the insurance companies could be cleaner. I am still not confident that has been done correctly.
Brian S.
Brian S.
18:39 21 Mar 23
I came to the COE because of my downward spiral of mental health and my alcohol abuse! they not only teach you how to get sober but also how to stay sober. the staff is absolutely amazing! when you come here for a problem, release all control and leave it to the staff. also be open and honest with everyone and most importantly be honest with your self. they truly are here for us. thank you COE for making me find my real self!ps- if no one has told you, be ready for the cavity search
Andrew B.
Andrew B.
16:46 21 Mar 23
The COE provides life changing experiences!
Matt
Matt
18:09 17 Mar 23
This place does wonders! Regardless of what you are struggling with, when your department is lacking in the mental health and drug addiction; there is no place better! The staff is very welcoming and very good at what they do. If you or anyone you know is having a difficult time pick up the phone and call. They are willing to work with you and make anything happen.
Alexander H.
Alexander H.
16:57 10 Mar 23
The IAFF has realized the need for specialized mental health care for our members and have created this amazing place tailored to our brothers and sisters in need. The IAFF Center of Excellence has assembled a team second to none to make this journey of healing seamless and exclusive to the fire service community. From the moment you arrive you are welcomed and immersed in the family where you will never again find yourself alone and will be constantly showered with genuine love and support from staff and peers alike. The IAFF Center of Excellence has saved my life and reopened my eyes to a brighter and better future. Make the call, there’s no better place to begin your journey.
Nate G.
Nate G.
18:18 09 Mar 23
They did an excellent job helping me through recent trauma. Top notch facility.
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About Our Program

Care for your unique needs

If you’re struggling with post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety or substance abuse disorders, you need treatment from professionals who understand the fire service culture and the unique pressures of your job. The IAFF Center of Excellence connects you to best-practice, evidence-based therapies delivered by clinicians who understand the types of trauma you experience on a day-to-day basis.

Completely confidential treatment

Center staff cannot discuss your treatment with anyone — your fire department, family or friends — unless given explicit permission by you. This applies before, during and after your stay at the IAFF Center of Excellence.

Our Partner: Advanced Recovery Systems

With eight treatment centers across the United States, the continuum of care provided by Advanced Recovery Systems is unsurpassed. The IAFF has partnered with Advanced Recovery Systems to provide members with specialized treatment for the everyday stressors that trigger PTSD, behavioral health disorders and substance abuse.

iaff logo
advanced reocvery systems logo

We Can Help

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

You’re exposed to traumatic situations every day you’re on the job. For this reason, fire fighters and paramedics are twice as likely as the general population to experience PTSD. That’s why therapies to treat and recover from PTSD are first priority at the IAFF Center of Excellence. You’ll learn coping strategies, work through individual and group therapy sessions and participate in activities that will help you recover, build resilience and return to the job.

Substance Abuse

It is not uncommon when suffering from PTSD to experience co-occurring disorders, including alcohol and drug abuse as substances are sometimes used to self-medicate and escape symptoms. As part of the integrated, multi-disciplinary approach at the IAFF Center of Excellence, IAFF members struggling with addiction will receive the full continuum of care, from detox to outpatient therapy, so they can get the necessary treatment to start living fuller lives.

Behavioral Health

Depression, anxiety and other behavioral health issues can also be brought on or worsened by the stresses of the job. However, through medical and pharmacological treatment and cognitive talk therapy, members can get behavioral health treatment in a caring and supportive atmosphere that understands the fire service culture.

We Can Help

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

You’re exposed to traumatic situations every day you’re on the job. For this reason, fire fighters and paramedics are twice as likely as the general population to experience PTSD. That’s why therapies to treat and recover from PTSD are first priority at the IAFF Center of Excellence. You’ll learn coping strategies, work through individual and group therapy sessions and participate in activities that will help you recover, build resilience and return to the job.

Substance Abuse

It is not uncommon when suffering from PTSD to experience co-occurring disorders, including alcohol and drug abuse as substances are sometimes used to self-medicate and escape symptoms. As part of the integrated, multi-disciplinary approach at the IAFF Center of Excellence, IAFF members struggling with addiction will receive the full continuum of care, from detox to outpatient therapy, so they can get the necessary treatment to start living fuller lives.

Behavioral Health

Depression, anxiety and other behavioral health issues can also be brought on or worsened by the stresses of the job. However, through medical and pharmacological treatment and cognitive talk therapy, members can get behavioral health treatment in a caring and supportive atmosphere that understands the fire service culture.

Recovery Stories

Richard Stack IAFF Recovery Story

NORTH ATTLEBORO, MA LOCAL 1992

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MD LOCAL 1664

Anderson, IN Local 1262

Bossier City, LA Local 4015