UCF RESTORES-Trauma Therapy Program

10/31/2025

Don’t let the idea of talking about mental wellness spook you. Courageous leadership means breaking the silence and creating space for open, supportive conversations in your department. Starting the conversation is one of the bravest, and most impactful, things you can do.

🎃 Don’t Fear the Conversation

When leaders create a safe space to discuss mental health in their department—it helps to connect people to support.

Courage in leadership means setting the tone:
✅ Normalize conversations about stress and trauma
✅ Build access to occupationally competent care
✅ Lead by example—wellness is part of readiness

👉 Ready to strengthen your department’s wellness program? Request assistance here: https://2ndalarmproject.org/contact/

10/30/2025

Even the strongest relationships face tough conversations. And those may be even more common when your partner is a first responder.

UCF RESTORES Clinical Psychology Doctoral Student Kathryn O’Dell, M.S., breaks down tools to help you communicate better in another Stronger Together video. From asking open-ended questions and using reflective statements to creating a plan on the more stressful days, these strategies help you support your partner while staying connected and keeping your own voice:

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10/29/2025

Our friend and supporter, State Senator Carlos Guillermo Smith stopped by today. It was wonderful to share some time with him and talk about new initiatives to support Floridians impacted by trauma.

10/29/2025

Firefighters are built to push through anything – but at what cost?

In this episode of APS Radio from Firefighter Nation, host Jim Burneka sits down with UCF RESTORES Deputy Executive Director Kellie O’Dare, Ph.D., to discuss the real impact of the extended firefighter workweek.

From chronic sleep deprivation and PTSD to burnout, recruitment challenges, and family strain, Dr. O’Dare, founder of 2nd Alarm Project, now a part of UCF RESTORES, shares the research behind why it’s time the fire service rethinks the 56-hour standard, and moves toward healthier models.

Tune in for a powerful conversation on sleep, culture, and the growing movement toward a “fourth platoon” workweek that prioritizes recovery and resilience.

🎧 Listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q75uMgQ7sdw

APS Radio: Firefighters and the Fight for Rest Firefighters are built to push through anything, but at what cost? In this episode of APS Radio, host Jim Bu...

10/28/2025

Today, on National First Responders Day, we spotlight and recognize the courage, dedication, and selflessness of the men and women who serve on the frontlines. Their commitment to keeping our communities safe does not go unnoticed.

At UCF RESTORES, we are proud to support first responders and their families, offering resources, training, and care to help manage the unique challenges of this vital work. Thank you to all first responders for your service and sacrifice. Your bravery inspires us every day.

10/23/2025

Supporting a first responder isn’t always easy. You want to help, but sometimes it’s hard to know what to say or do.

In this installment of the Stronger Together video series, law enforcement spouse and UCF RESTORES Training Coordinator Suzie Nazzaro, M.Ed., is back to share practical ways families can recognize when a partner is struggling, respond with patience and understanding, and create a safe space at home.

From encouraging open communication to recognizing their sacrifices and normalizing outside support, these strategies can make a real difference in your partner’s well-being and in your family’s resilience.

Watch now to learn how to support your first responder when it matters most: https://youtu.be/zjnpdsoS4hI?si=9Hd-nD67TojgXJbM.

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10/20/2025

We’re proud to share that UCF RESTORES Deputy Executive Director, Kellie O’Dare, Ph.D., has been awarded the Florida Fire Chiefs' Association Safety, Health and Wellness Award of Excellence, honoring her outstanding contributions to improving the well-being of Florida’s fire service community.

A proud fire service family member herself, Dr. O’Dare brings both personal connection and professional expertise to her work. Through her leadership, research, and advocacy as Executive Director of the 2nd Alarm Project, now a part of UCF RESTORES, she is advancing how we understand and treat firefighter mental health. Her work equips departments across the state to build stronger, more resilient teams and ensures those individuals receive the specialized care and support they need.

This award is a testament not only to her expertise, but to her deep passion for supporting those who serve. Congratulations, Dr. O’Dare, on this well-earned recognition!

10/20/2025

Stress is a part of life – but for first responder families, it can take on a whole new level.

In this video, part of the Stronger Together series, UCF RESTORES Clinician and Research Fellow Ashley Winch, Ph.D., explains how stress impacts both home and work, what makes traumatic stress different, and the “stress zones” that help us recognize when extra support may be needed.

By learning to spot the signs early, you can protect your health, strengthen your relationship, and build resilience together.

Watch now to better understand stress and how to manage it before it takes a toll: https://youtu.be/ixj-s50TGwc?si=9mBIdSHMnWxDdObU.

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10/17/2025

First responders and their families often carry unseen burdens – but they don’t have to carry them alone.

Redline Rescue, Blueline Rescue, and Goldline Rescue were created to connect firefighters, law enforcement, and dispatchers with trained peer providers and occupationally competent clinicians who understand the unique challenges behind the badge.

Support can now be a click away. Learn more or access these resources here: https://ucfrestores.com/resources/rescue/.

10/14/2025

Life as a firefighter is more than just fighting fires.

In this part of the Stronger Together series, UCF RESTORES Clinical Case Coordinator Sarah Deibner, MSW, spouse of a firefighter-paramedic, shares an inside look at the fire service – the demanding schedules, unpredictable calls, and the physical and emotional challenges that extend far beyond the station. From 24-hour shifts and mandatory overtime to trauma exposure and hypervigilance, this role impacts both the firefighter and their family.

Learn how understanding their work can help you navigate communication, cope with stress, and strengthen resilience as a first responder family. Watch the full video to see what life inside and outside the firehouse looks like: https://youtu.be/q5Jdi5X3dbs?si=tX1arhSEJSr4FH1o.

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10/10/2025

At UCF RESTORES, our mission is to redefine the way posttraumatic stress is understood, diagnosed, and treated. Every day, we work to restore lives, families, and communities through research-driven care, peer support, and innovative treatment.

This , we invite you to take a few minutes to watch our video and learn more about the impact of our work – and how, together, we can continue breaking down stigma and building a future where mental wellness is a priority for all.

10/07/2025

October is National Depression Awareness Month, a time to recognize that depression is more than just a “bad day” and spotlighting support and strategies that are available to help.

In this video, learn practical ways to cope with sadness and depression through behavioral activation, the practice of intentionally engaging in activities that improve mood and create balance in daily life.

From setting goals to finding time for the things that bring you joy, these small but meaningful steps can make a real difference in how you feel and navigate each day.

Video Link:

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