During EMS Week, Matt reflects on the strengths and opportunities for growth of emergency medical training. In this post, he shares how years in the field shaped his crisis response, why EMS programs must do more to prepare providers for mental health care, and what he's learned from stepping out of EMS and into the world of counseling.    Read More…

Tags: first responder culture, counseling support, mental health reflection, trauma-informed care, professional transition

First responders face unique challenges with substance use, but recovery starts with dignity, not demands. Matt shares his insights as an LCDC.    Read More…

Tags: SAMHSA, substance use disorder, first responder culture, addiction, recovery, tactical counseling, stigma

Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. See what Matt—paramedic-turned-therapist—says about how cultural awareness strengthens trust, especially for first responders and diverse clients.    Read More…

Tags: cultural competence, identity, inclusive, first responder culture, self-awareness, counseling ethics, trauma-informed care, tactical counseling, trust in therapy