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

Steven S.
Steven S.
1695038580
Coming to the COE was a tough decision to make for myself. I was so used to helping others, I forgot to help myself. I started drowning. Once I got to the COE, I knew I made the right choice. EVERYONE there truly cares for our mental and physical health. From the Clinicians to the Kitchen staff, they all care. Everyone that is a resident there is welcomed by the other residents upon arrival. The true Brotherhood of the fire service is alive and well here. The administrator, Marc, is a true leader from the front. He goes out of his way to see everyone every day and fights for us when needed. Dr. Abby genuinely cares for our well being. Some people call the COE a bubble. I consider it a cocoon. We go in broken and ugly, but come out beautiful and full of life! If you are an IAFF FF, active or retired, and you are battling with PTSD, suicidal thoughts, anger, withdrawal, alcohol, substance abuse, or anything else, I cannot beg you enough to seek out help. Call the Center, GET HELP!!! You are worthy of it and you DESERVE to forgive yourself and find inner peace! God Bless You!
Anthony L.
Anthony L.
1694797692
Center of excellence is a great facility that caters to brothers & sisters of the IAFF that share a common thread dealing with addiction, PTSD, depression, anxiety, etc.
Brandon T.
Brandon T.
1694692508
The IAFF Center of Excellence is an amazing place. The brother and sisterhood was like no other. The COE has changed my life for the better. I highly recommend this program to anyone and everyone in the IAFF.
Gilbert J.
Gilbert J.
1694525596
I came to the CoE a broken and defeated man. I was at the end of my rope, the bottom of my hole and I couldn’t see the point of digging any more. The staff here helped me to climb out and see the light again. They literally saved my life. I couldn’t be more appreciative.
Jan L.
Jan L.
1693512417
I feel lucky that I was able to attend such a fine facility. I would highly recommend it to anyone.
Steven W.
Steven W.
1693508714
Once in a lifetime experience. Without the help of the people at the COE I could not of overcome my addiction. Thank you to everyone who helped me through that time.
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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

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