This presentation explores the unique mental health challenges faced by children and adolescents in first responder families, emphasizing the impact of occupational trauma on the family system. Attendees will learn trauma-informed strategies to effectively support youth in school and community settings, while building strong partnerships with caregivers. The session provides practical tools to enhance clinical interventions and foster resilience in this specialized population.
After attending this webinar, participants will be able to:
Identify common stressors among first responder families
Explore strategies for building trust and rapport with first responder families
Understand how occupational trauma in these families can impact the emotional and psychological well-being of both children and adults
Learn practical tools for working with youth from first responder households, including communication strategies, environmental considerations, and trauma-informed interventions
Discuss how to partner effectively with parents and guardians to strengthen protective factors and improve outcomes for children receiving school-based or outpatient mental health support
Clarissa Miller, LCSW-S
Clarissa is a licensed clinical social worker and the Director of Programs and Operations at First Responders Children’s Foundation. She leads national initiatives that support the mental health and resilience of first responder families, including scholarships, grants, community engagement events, and youth-focused training programs. She has nearly two decades of experience in trauma-informed care and community mental health, including school-based counseling.
Rob Casale, LPC
As Director of Training for F1RST, Rob brings three decades of frontline experience to his role, along with a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by first responders. His extensive background in emergency services—as a firefighter, paramedic, and then police officer—informs his passion for mental health advocacy, trauma-informed care, and professional development within high-stress professions.