How the IAFF Center of Excellence Helps Fire Fighters

Author: IAFF Staff

May 11, 2018

Fire fighters and paramedics grapple with numerous mental and physical challenges that most people can’t imagine. It’s no wonder that rates of acute stress disorder (ASD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression and substance use are so high among these dedicated men and women. Tragically, while many battle with these behavioral health issues, few receive the care they need.

At the IAFF Center of Excellence, we understand the unique stressors you face as a fire fighter. As the only center dedicated entirely to addressing mental health concerns and substance use disorders for IAFF members, we’re committed to providing a care environment that helps you heal from addiction and mental health challenges. With a comfortable treatment environment, evidence-based therapies and the support of those who share in your struggle, we’re here to help you succeed.

We Deliver Treatment in a Facility That Feels Like Home

The IAFF Center of Excellence was designed by fire fighters, for fire fighters. To help IAFF members feel more at home at the facility, there are touches reminiscent of a firehouse throughout common areas and private spaces. Communal areas are designed to facilitate comfort and conversation, so you can get to know the men and women who share in your experiences. The Center also features a firehouse-style kitchen, fully equipped gym and scenic walking trails.

We Offer Evidence-Based Care That Heals

At the IAFF Center of Excellence, we bring evidence-based support to behavioral health care. While many behavioral health centers address only addiction or mental health disorders, we handle both. The IAFF Center of Excellence is dually licensed to address a broad range of mental health issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), acute stress disorder (ASD), anxiety and depression. Our clinicians are also equipped to help clients work through most substance use disorders, including those involving alcohol, prescription drugs, illicit substances and more.

The IAFF Center of Excellence employs a wide range of therapeutic treatment methods that help clients understand the roots of their struggles, work through unhealthy patterns of thinking and find better ways of coping.

These include:

• Individual therapy
• Group therapy
• 12-step groups
• Yoga
• Nutrition counseling
• Mindfulness training

We Connect Clients to Supportive Peers Who Understand Their Struggle

Because the IAFF Center of Excellence provides care exclusively to fire fighters and paramedics, you can take comfort knowing that the men and women you undergo treatment with have been in your boots. While your experiences aren’t identical, you all understand the unique pressures of the job that IAFF members face every day. As brothers and sisters in healing, you’ll share your unique experiences and lift each other up. Most importantly, you’ll remind yourselves of the most important fact of all — that you’re not alone in your journey to recovery.

You spend your days helping others. Let us help you. The IAFF Center of Excellence is committed to serving those who serve their communities. If you or an IAFF member you know is struggling, we can help. To get started, reach out to a representative at the IAFF Center of Excellence today.