Institute for Disaster Mental Health hosts 19th Annual Conference on first responder mental health
The Institute for Disaster Mental Health (IDMH) at SUNY New Paltz held its 19th Annual Conference, “Beyond the Call: Sustaining Resilience in the Responder Community,” on May 14-15 at the Culinary Insititute of America in Hyde Park, New York, bringing together professionals and experts to address the critical issue of mental health among first responders.
The conference began with opening remarks from SUNY New Paltz Provost William McClure, setting the stage for an impactful event. Attendees then received a compelling keynote presentation by retired police officer Travis Gribble and therapist Jennifer Cooper.
Gribble, a retired sergeant from the Mesa Police Department, shared his journey through the psychological challenges associated with repeated exposure to traumatic events. His narrative emphasized the importance of accessible mental health resources and early intervention for first responders.
Meanwhile, as a therapist with over two decades of experience treating first responders, Cooper provided insights from the clinical perspective. Her view underscored the silent struggles many first responders face and highlighted the critical need for destigmatizing mental health care in the first responder community.
The second day featured insightful presentations from two distinguished law enforcement officers, FBI Operational Psychologist Carl Dickens and retired Norfolk, Virginia police sergeant Christopher Scallon. Dickens discussed lessons learned about crisis leadership, while Scallon discussed his experiences and the mental health challenges prevalent in their profession, offering attendees a deeper understanding of the psychological toll of law enforcement work and the importance of addressing vicarious trauma exposure among first responders.
The afternoon sessions included a series of breakout workshops designed to provide practical tools and strategies for mental health professionals working with first responders. Topics covered included the complexities of grief in the responder community, understanding responder culture, and the treatment of moral injury. These interactive workshops aimed to equip attendees with the skills necessary to effectively support the mental well-being of first responders. Closing remarks concluded the event, which were delivered by John Feal, founder of the nonprofit FealGood Foundation in Nesconset, New York.
About the Institute for Disaster Mental Health
The IDMH prepares students, community members, paraprofessionals, and professionals in the helping fields to care for others following a disaster via evidence-based disaster mental health interventions, content, and skills.
IDMH programs include developing and presenting professional trainings in disaster mental health; research and dissemination on training needs to improve community preparedness, and an annual conference or training that brings experts in the field to the New Paltz campus.
The IDMH annual conference is the only one of its kind in New York State that brings together emergency managers with health and mental health personnel, who all must play a role in preparing for and responding to future disasters.
Click here to learn more about the Institute for Disaster Mental Health.