ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — While the second cohort of graduates has just obtained their Applied Mental Health Certificate from St. Petersburg College, the third class is preparing to begin their program.
Officer Jordon Poulos from the Bradenton Police Department is among the new graduates. He is part of the homeless outreach team.
“Most of my clients struggle with substance abuse or mental health concerns,” said Poulos, who is now better equipped to connect both his community and colleagues with essential resources.
The Applied Mental Health Certificate Program trains officers to handle stress, provide peer support, and act as mental health liaisons. The latest graduating class included representatives from agencies across Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Manatee counties.
“This training can enhance mental health support for first responders, and it enables me to better understand and communicate with the homeless individuals I work with,” Poulos shared.
The training is extensive.
“Most first responders experience numerous traumatic events throughout their careers,” stated Poulos.
This trauma can have personal repercussions. The Bradenton Police Department felt the impact closely, especially following the recent tragic loss of Officer Zachary Butterfield, who died by suicide.
Poulos had worked alongside the 40-year-old and noted that the recent training equipped him to support grieving colleagues.
“I want to reassure them that peer support is available, that we possess the resources, and they can reach out to us any time for assistance. We will also help connect them with additional support when necessary, ensuring confidentiality is a key aspect of our approach,” said Poulos.
This course continues to broaden its support network. Program Director Dr. Letresha Moore is gearing up for the third cohort to begin the year-long training.
The new class will delve into accessing further peer support and additional resources.
“We’re aiming to enhance resilience and assist our first responders in applying the skills they acquire from this program, fostering greater self-care awareness,” Moore explained.
The objective, according to Moore, is to safeguard the well-being of first responders.
“This training provides me the tools and confidence to initiate difficult conversations, as there remains a stigma. Many first responders hesitate to seek help when needed, which is a crucial part of this program,” Poulos emphasized.
The initiative aims to eventually extend its reach to firefighters, EMS personnel, and dispatchers.
Read the full article here: Source link
