UCF RESTORES-Trauma Therapy Program

02/12/2026

Developed by retired first responders for retired first responders, REACT for Retirees empowers those who’ve served to continue making an impact – only this time through peer support.

This train-the-trainer program equips retirees with the tools, skills, and confidence to become peer support providers for fellow retirees, creating a sustainable ripple effect of connection, purpose, and resilience within the first responder community.

As many of us know all too well: while the job may end, the need for community never does.

Continue supporting your community by participating in a REACT training course. To learn more visit: https://ucfrestores.com/training/peer-support/react-training-program/ or reach out to REACTPeerSupport@ucf.edu.

UCF RESTORES offers a peer support training program called REACT: “Recognize. Evaluate. Advocate. Coordinate. Track.” REACT provides all participants with mastery experiences, designed to give them challenges at which they can succeed, bolstering confidence in their ability to provide effective ...

02/10/2026

When first responders use Redline, Blueline or Goldline Rescue to connect with a trained peer supporter or licensed mental health clinician, they are guided through brief whiteboard videos that represent the most common challenges for which first responders seek treatment: addiction, anger management, anxiety/traumatic stress, and depression.

Developed by UCF RESTORES, these videos help first responders assess how certain behaviors may be affecting their lives. Clinicians registered on the platform identify their level of expertise in each area – little, moderate, or substantial – allowing the system to thoughtfully match help-seekers with clinicians experienced in treating these concerns.

While all Rescue platforms offer multiple ways to search for a clinician or peer supporter, these videos replace traditional questionnaires, providing a more visual, accessible way to quantify distress and impairment across four critical areas of mental health.

This clip is one example of what a first responder may see when seeking support through Redline Rescue.

(Please note: this video does not contain sound.)
https://ucfrestores.com/resources/rescue/

02/06/2026

📢 New Evidence on First Responder Mental Health & Organizational Culture

First responders are exposed to high-stakes work every day – but what role does organizational culture play in their mental health outcomes?

UCF RESTORES Deputy Executive Director Kellie O’Dare, Ph.D., examined how psychological safety, and workplace and institutional environments are linked to PTSD, depression, burnout, and resilience among EMS and fire personnel in Florida.

Some key findings were:
• 33.2% screened positive for probable PTSD
• 32.3% reported moderate to severe depressive symptoms
• 27.6% reported moderate/high burnout

These results highlight how adverse organizational experiences, not just critical incidents, are linked to poorer mental health outcomes. The study calls for targeted interventions like leadership training, peer support, and transparent accountability to build trust, enhance safety, and strengthen workforce wellbeing.

Read the full article here: https://www.journalcswb.ca/index.php/cswb/article/view/490

Psychological safety, workplace incivility, and institutional betrayal: Organizational factors shaping mental health in first responders Authors K. O'Dare University of Central FL, Orlando, FL, USA L. Atwell Florida A & M University, Tallahassee, FL, USA L. Porter Florida A & M University, Tallahass...

01/27/2026

As of last year, the 2nd Alarm Project officially became part of UCF RESTORES. Founded in 2019 to support Florida’s first responders, the 2nd Alarm Project built a strong foundation through grassroots peer support coordination, mental wellness program development, comprehensive training, and trusted resource navigation.

Today, that work continues – now under the UCF RESTORES name. If you’ve found us through the 2nd Alarm Project, welcome. You’re in the right place. The mission, values, and commitment to first responder mental health remain the same, strengthened by the clinical expertise, research-backed programs, and expanded reach of UCF RESTORES.

Together, we’re growing access to evidence-based care, advancing peer support initiatives, and building sustainable systems of support for first responders, their families, and their agencies across Florida and beyond.

Learn more about us:

The 2nd Alarm Project has joined UCF RESTORES, strengthening our commitment to first responder mental health. Together, we’re setting a new standard of care ...

01/22/2026

First responders face extraordinary stressors every day, from high-intensity rescue operations to critical incidents that can leave lasting emotional impact. While physical gear and tactical training prepare you for the job, emotional resilience and peer support skills are equally vital for long-term wellbeing and team strength.

That’s where the REACT Training Program from UCF RESTORES comes in.

This evidence-based peer support training equips first responders with the tools and confidence to recognize stress, support one another, and connect peers to appropriate care when it matters most. REACT strengthens the trusted relationships that are critical in a profession where “toughing it out” is often the norm.

Designed specifically for firefighters, EMS personnel, law enforcement officers, and dispatchers, REACT strengthens peer support skills tailored to the unique challenges of public safety work.

By fostering peer-to-peer connection, REACT helps build stronger, more resilient teams and promotes a culture where reaching out is a strength, not a stigma.

Learn more about this training opportunity here:

UCF RESTORES offers a peer support training program called REACT: “Recognize. Evaluate. Advocate. Coordinate. Track.” REACT provides all participants with m ...

01/19/2026

One of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s most powerful reminders is this:

“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.”

Asking for help can feel like stepping into the unknown. Reaching out, especially when the path ahead feels uncertain, is an act of courage and faith.

Dr. King’s words remind us that every journey toward healing begins with a single, brave step. If you or someone you care about is struggling, know that support is available and challenges do not have to be faced alone.

Today, we honor Dr. King’s legacy by embracing hope, healing, and continued progress.

In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, UCF RESTORES is closed and will reopen tomorrow, January 20.

01/16/2026

Need a refresh on your REACT training? Our “REACT Refresh” website was created exclusively for first responders who have completed one of our REACT peer support trainings.

This secure, easy-to-use platform extends the original workshop, offering ongoing access to practical tools and evidence-informed strategies that help you continue supporting your peers with confidence.

The site houses tips for navigating tough conversations, support guides tailored to fire service, law enforcement, and EMS dispatch, a statewide directory of resources to aid in peer-to-peer conversations, a detailed list of common Q&As, and more.

Access the website here: https://reactpeersupport.com/

01/14/2026

ICYMI: ⏰ There’s still time to register!

On Friday, join Dr. Kellie O’Dare and Lt. Timothy Capps for a free webinar on building effective peer support teams in EMS and the fire service. Learn how strong peer support can strengthen resilience across your organization.

Save your spot:

01/13/2026

‼️FREE Webinar: Building Effective Peer Support Teams in EMS & Fire Service‼️

First responders operate in demanding, high-stress environments that require sustained resilience. At times, support from others who understand the work can make a meaningful difference.

This Friday, join UCF RESTORES Deputy Executive Director Dr. Kellie O’Dare and Lt. Timothy Capps, Orlando Fire Department(Engine 16), for a free webinar exploring the real impact of peer support and practical steps to build or strengthen a peer support team within your department.

Together, they bring research-backed insight and real-world fire service experience to help organizations promote mental wellness, improve team culture, and sustain long, healthy careers in EMS and fire service.

Register today:

01/12/2026

First responders and their families face challenges that are often unseen, and access to the right support can make all the difference. This curated list of Central Florida resources was created to connect first responders and their loved ones with trusted support during difficult times. From healthcare and financial assistance to family and community services, these organizations are dedicated to helping families navigate life’s challenges with care and understanding.

Skip to Section Primary Healtchcare Mobile and tablet users, we recommend downloading a copy of this data for better viewing. Download Organization NameAddressCityPhoneCounty The Florida Department Of Health In Brevard County601 E University BlvdMelbourne321-726-2920Brevard Brevard Health Alliance -...

01/09/2026

Today, on National Law Enforcement Awareness Day, we recognize the unique challenges law enforcement professionals face and the critical role they play in the safety and well-being of our communities.

At UCF RESTORES, we work closely with officers across the state and nationwide. We’ve seen firsthand the toll that high-stress, high-stakes work can take. Today serves as an important reminder of the need for continued awareness, support, and accessible mental health resources for those who protect and serve.

We remain committed to advancing evidence-based care, training, and programs that meet the specific needs of law enforcement professionals, helping them build resilience, access support, and know they’re never alone.

To all those who serve – we see you, we support you, and we’re here for you.

01/06/2026

January is Mental Wellness Month – a perfect reminder to pause, reset, and prioritize the habits that support both your mind and body.

Research continues to show what many of us feel firsthand: mental and physical health are deeply connected. Strong mental wellness can boost immune function, improve sleep, lower stress, and even reduce the risk of serious health conditions. And when we’re living with ongoing physical challenges, we’re more likely to experience anxiety or depression.

So how can we strengthen that mind-body connection as we begin the new year?

🔸 Establish emotional balance.
Acknowledge your feelings, name them, and allow yourself to experience and process them, not bottle them up.

🔸 Find a sense of purpose.
Purpose doesn’t have to be big or dramatic; it can come from connection, service, hobbies, or the people you love.

🔸Prioritize healthy habits.
Fuel your body, get enough sleep, and use stress-reducing practices that support long-term wellness.

At UCF RESTORES, our mission is rooted in the belief that whole-person wellness creates stronger, healthier communities. This month, we encourage you to take the time to check in, reconnect, and prioritize your mental health. You can utilize our resources to do just that: https://ucfrestores.com/resources/stress-management/.

Coping with Stress Part 1 Coping with Stress Part 2 Healthy Sleeping Coping with Sadness & Depression Stress & Anger Management