Join us for a powerful webinar with Lynnette Fritshaw, a retired Acting Captain and the first and only career female firefighter in her department. After nearly two decades of suffering in silence, Lynnette is speaking out about the workplace psychological injuries caused by bullying, discrimination, harassment, and misogyny in the fire service. As a trauma coach, CISM instructor, and crisis interventionist, she will share her personal journey, expert insights, and practical strategies to help first responders recognize, process, and heal from workplace trauma.
Author Archive: Admin Wayne State
Minds on the Frontline (E51) – Matt Dunaj: Rehab, Relapse, and Redemption
Detroit firefighter Matt Dunaj knows firsthand how the weight of life and the job can push someone to the brink. In August 2024, overwhelmed by stress and addiction, he sat alone in his basement, gun in hand, ready to end it all, until his Goldendoodle, Mia, interrupted him with a simple act of love that saved his life. That moment set him on a path to recovery, leading him to the IAFF Center of Excellence for help with his mental health and substance use. But healing wasn’t linear. Matt returned to rehab multiple times before finding stability. In this episode, he shares his journey, the stigma of seeking help, the challenges of staying on track, and how he went from feeling isolated to advocating for better mental health resources in the fire service. His story is a powerful reminder that recovery takes time, but it’s always possible. If you or someone you know is struggling, this conversation offers hope, insight, and a path forward.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast is brought to you by the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program. FST5 provides streamlined access to behavioral and mental health services, as well as crisis resources for Michigan’s frontline workers and their families. NEED HELP NOW? If you are a frontline worker in Michigan or an immediate family member experiencing any crisis—whether work-related, substance abuse, depression, relationships, finances, or other challenges—reach out by calling 1-833-34-STRONG or visit FST5.org for more information.
Minds on the Frontline (E50) – Dr. David Ledgerwood on Addiction, Trauma, and First Responders
In this episode, we welcome Dr. Dave Ledgerwood, a professor at Wayne State University and a clinical psychologist specializing in addiction. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Ledgerwood breaks down how addiction, whether to nicotine, gambling, or other substances, affects the brain and why first responders are at higher risk. We explore the impact of trauma, shift work, and sleep deprivation, as well as the connection between PTSD and addiction. Dr. Ledgerwood also shares practical strategies for treatment and recovery, emphasizing the importance of peer support and available resources. This is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the hidden struggles of frontline workers and the real solutions that can help.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast is brought to you by the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program. FST5 provides streamlined access to behavioral and mental health services, as well as crisis resources for Michigan’s frontline workers and their families. NEED HELP NOW? If you are a frontline worker in Michigan or an immediate family member experiencing any crisis—whether work-related, substance abuse, depression, relationships, finances, or other challenges—reach out by calling 1-833-34-STRONG or visit FST5.org for more information.
Minds on the Frontline (E49) – Captain David Clifton, Washtenaw County Corrections: The cost of order behind bars
In this episode, we welcome Captain David Clifton of the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Division, where he has served for 18 years and counting. During this episode, we discuss the challenges officers face, the emotional toll of the job, and the misconceptions about corrections work. Captain Clifton highlights the need for mentorship, crisis intervention, and mental health support, including his own experience with therapy. He also explores how leadership can improve conditions for officers while balancing security and rehabilitation. Tune in for a powerful look inside the world of corrections.
Minds on the Frontline (E48) – Crying and Laughing with Dr. Ali Amirsadri
Dr. Ali Amirsadri, Director of the FST5 Program and a seasoned psychiatrist with over 20 years in emergency psychiatry, joins us to explore the profound connection between crying and laughter. As essential emotional tools, these responses shape how we process experiences, connect with others, and manage stress—especially for frontline workers. We delve into their evolutionary roots, physiological and neurological impact, and their role in resilience. From the power of humor in high-stress professions to the dangers of emotional suppression, this episode highlights why vulnerability is not a weakness but a crucial element of trust and mental well-being.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast is brought to you by the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program. FST5 provides streamlined access to behavioral and mental health services, as well as crisis resources for Michigan’s frontline workers and their families. NEED HELP NOW? If you are a frontline worker in Michigan or an immediate family member experiencing any crisis—whether work-related, substance abuse, depression, relationships, finances, or other challenges—reach out by calling 1-833-34-STRONG or visit FST5.org for more information.
Minds on the Frontline (E47) – Conrad Weaver – Film maker: PTSD 911
In this episode, we welcome award-winning filmmaker Conrad Weaver, director of PTSD 911, a documentary exploring the mental health challenges faced by first responders. Conrad shares insights from his journey capturing the resilience and struggles of these frontline heroes and offers actionable strategies for fostering wellness, peer support, and systemic change within agencies. Discover how his work sheds light on the urgent need to support those who serve our communities.
The Minds on the Frontline Podcast is brought to you by the Wayne State University Frontline Strong Together Program. The Minds on Frontline Podcast is designed to inform, educate, and entertain first responders, their families, and the public regarding the realities of frontline work-related mental health challenges.
Minds on the Frontline (E46) – Ali Amirsadri, M.D. Understanding Grief (Part 2)
In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Ali Amirsadri, a respected psychiatrist, professor, and advocate for frontline mental health. As the Director of the FST5 Program, Dr. A has over 20 years of experience in emergency psychiatry and specializes in addressing PTSD, anxiety, and grief in Michigan’s frontline workers. Building on Episode 41, we explore multidimensional grief, trauma, and actionable strategies for healing and growth, with a focus on supporting first responders and their families.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast is brought to you by the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program. FST5 provides streamlined access to behavioral and mental health services, as well as crisis resources for Michigan’s frontline workers and their families.
Minds on the Frontline (E45) – Kevin Sehlmeyer – State of Michigan Fire Marshal
In this episode, Michigan’s State Fire Marshal Kevin Sehlmeyer shares insights from over 30 years in the fire service. We discuss his work leading the Bureau of Fire Services, efforts to reduce fire fatalities, and initiatives like FST5 that expand access to mental health resources. Kevin highlights how mental health support improves recruitment, retention, and resilience while addressing financial barriers to care. Learn how programs like FST5 are eliminating copays for frontline workers and their families.
Minds on the Frontline (E44) – Mike McFall: State of Michigan Representative
In this episode, we sit down with Michigan State Representative Mike McFall, a dedicated advocate for public safety and community well-being. Representing House District 8, which includes Hazel Park, Madison Heights, and portions of Ferndale, Detroit, and Highland Park (and expanding to parts of Warren and Centerline in 2025), Mike brings a hands-on approach to his work—riding along with police, joining fire runs, and securing critical funding for public safety. We explore how these firsthand experiences have shaped his understanding of frontline challenges, including the pressing need to address mental health for first responders and their families. Mike shares actionable strategies for reducing stigma, improving access to support, and fostering stronger connections between legislators, leaders, and the frontline community. This episode delivers inspiring insights and practical solutions for anyone passionate about supporting those who protect and serve.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast is brought to you by the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program. FST5 provides streamlined access to behavioral and mental health services, as well as crisis resources for Michigan’s frontline workers and their families.
Minds on the Frontline (E43) – James Geering on Frontline Wellness Solutions
In this episode of Minds on the Frontline, we sit down with James Geering, former firefighter, paramedic, and host of the acclaimed Behind the Shield Podcast. With over 1,000 episodes and 6 million downloads, James has become a trusted voice in the first responder community, offering powerful insights into mental and physical wellness. James shares his journey from his career in fire service to creating one of the most impactful platforms for frontline worker health. We discuss the most pressing mental and behavioral health challenges facing first responders today, like sleep deprivation, burnout, and systemic obstacles, and why meaningful structural change is urgently needed. James also provides evidence-based strategies for building resilience, emphasizes the critical role of peer support and culturally competent providers, and offers practical advice for first responders and their families on navigating mental health challenges. This episode is packed with actionable insights, heartfelt stories, and empowering solutions for those on the frontlines and the people who support them.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast brought to you by the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program. FST5 provides streamlined access to behavioral and mental health services, as well as crisis resources for Michigan’s frontline five workers and their families. NEED HELP NOW? If you are a frontline worker in Michigan or an immediate family member, experiencing any crisis – work-related, substance abuse, depression, relationships, finances, or any other, reach out by calling 1-833-34-STRONG or go to FST5.org for more information.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E42) -Navigating the Emotional Aftermath of Loss
In this episode, we welcome back Ashley Freeman, an EMT, mental health advocate, and volunteer with the Northwest Michigan Peer Support Network. Drawing from personal loss, including the suicide of her father and his mentor, Ashley shares her journey of resilience and her mission to support frontline workers in northwest Michigan. Her unique perspective as both a first responder and someone who has experienced profound grief offers a powerful voice to this discussion. For more of her story, revisit Episode 13, “Ashley’s Story.” (Link to E13: https://tinyurl.com/nhjfaz2h).
We are also joined by Manisha Leary, FST5 Program Manager and trauma-focused therapist, whose expertise has been instrumental in supporting Michigan’s frontline workers. Manisha brings practical, trauma-informed insights into managing the emotional toll of frontline work, offering strategies to process grief and build resilience. Together, Ashley and Manisha guide us through a compassionate conversation about overcoming tragedy and the critical role of connection and peer support.
This episode addresses the emotional aftermath of recent tragedies and explores practical ways to support peers and families affected by loss. By validating emotions like anger and guilt while providing actionable strategies for fostering connection and healing, this discussion offers essential tools for building resilience and solidarity within the frontline worker community.
How light can shift your mood and mental health
It’s spring and you’ve probably noticed a change in when the Sun rises and sets. But have you also noticed a change in your mood?
We’ve known for a while that light plays a role in our wellbeing. Many of us tend to feel more positive when spring returns.
But for others, big changes in light, such as at the start of spring, can be tough. And for many, bright light at night can be a problem. Here’s what’s going on.
Assisting Individuals in Crisis and Group Crisis Intervention Training
Course Description:
This 3-day course combines ALL of the content of ICISF’s Assisting Individuals in Crisis &
Group Crisis Intervention courses. Crisis Intervention is NOT psychotherapy; rather, it is a specialized acute emergency mental health intervention which requires specialized training. As physical first aid is to surgery, crisis intervention is to psychotherapy. Thus, crisis intervention is sometimes called “emotional first aid”. Designed to present the core elements of a comprehensive, systematic and multi-component crisis intervention curriculum, this course will prepare participants to understand a wide range of crisis intervention services for both the individual and for groups. Fundamentals of Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) will be outlined, and participants will leave with the knowledge and tools to provide several group crisis interventions, specifically demobilizations, defusing and the Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD). The need for appropriate follow-up services and referrals, when necessary, will also be discussed.
Course Dates
Who: Michigan First Responders in the fields of Police, Fire, EMS, 911 Dispatch, Corrections as well as Mental Health Professionals.
When: May 5th – 7th, 2025: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Where: Delta Township Fire Station
811 N Canal Rd
Lansing, MI 48917
Cost: Free
How to join: Click the Register button below
Program Highlights:
• Psychological crisis and psychological crisis intervention
• Resistance, resiliency, recovery continuum
• Critical incident stress management
• Evidence-based practice
• Basic crisis communication techniques
• Common psychological and behavioral crisis reactions
• Putative and empirically derived mechanisms
• SAFER-Revised model
• Suicide intervention
• Relevant research findings
• Large group crisis interventions
• Small group crisis interventions
• Adverse outcome associated with crisis intervention
• Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD)
Course Objectives:
1) Understand the natures & definitions of a psychological crisis and psychological crisis intervention.
2) Understand key issues and findings of evidence-based, and evidence-informed practice as it relates to psychological crisis intervention.
3) Understand the resistance, resiliency, recovery continuum.
4) Understand the nature and definition of critical incident stress management and its role as a continuum of care.
5) Practice basic crisis communication techniques.
6) Be familiar with common psychological and behavioral crisis reactions, including empirically derived predictors of posttraumatic stress disorder. Assisting Individuals in Crisis and Group Crisis Intervention Training
7) Understand the putative and empirically derived mechanisms of action in psychological crisis intervention.
8) Understand and discuss the risks of iatrogenic “harm” associated with psychological crisis intervention and will further discuss how to reduce those risks.
9) Understand how the SAFER-Revised model may be altered for suicide intervention.
10) Understand and discuss the risks of iatrogenic “harm” associated with psychological crisis intervention and will further discuss how to reduce those risks.
11) Understand and discuss the ethical implications, risks and obligations of providing group and individual crisis response services
12) Define key crisis terms such as “critical incident,” “crisis,” and “crisis intervention.”
13) Define key stress management terms such as “stress,” traumatic stress,” and “Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM).”
14) Explain role of the comprehensive, integrated, systematic, and multi-component crisis intervention system, known as “Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM).
15) Understand the nature of “resistance,” “resiliency,” and “recovery” in the field of CISM.
16) List components of a CISM program to conduct group crisis intervention sessions.
17) Briefly describe the five elements of CISM’s strategic planning formula.
18) Explain the differences between informational and interactive group crisis intervention procedures.
19) Practice by participation in role-play scenarios, the Informational Group Crisis Interventions such as a) Rest, Information, and Transition Services (RITS) and b) Crisis Management Briefing (CMB).
20) Practice by participation in role-play scenarios, the Interactive Group Crisis Intervention such as a) Debriefing and b) Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD).
Assisting Individuals in Crisis and Group Crisis Intervention Training
Course Description:
This 3-day course combines ALL of the content of ICISF’s Assisting Individuals in Crisis &
Group Crisis Intervention courses. Crisis Intervention is NOT psychotherapy; rather, it is a specialized acute emergency mental health intervention which requires specialized training. As physical first aid is to surgery, crisis intervention is to psychotherapy. Thus, crisis intervention is sometimes called “emotional first aid”. Designed to present the core elements of a comprehensive, systematic and multi-component crisis intervention curriculum, this course will prepare participants to understand a wide range of crisis intervention services for both the individual and for groups. Fundamentals of Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) will be outlined, and participants will leave with the knowledge and tools to provide several group crisis interventions, specifically demobilizations, defusing and the Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD). The need for appropriate follow-up services and referrals, when necessary, will also be discussed.
Course Dates
Who: Michigan First Responders in the fields of Police, Fire, EMS, 911 Dispatch, Corrections as well as Mental Health Professionals.
When: May 16th-18th, 2025: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Where: Escanaba Public Safety
1900 3rd Ave North
Escanaba, MI 49829
Cost: Free
How to join: Click the Register button below
Program Highlights:
• Psychological crisis and psychological crisis intervention
• Resistance, resiliency, recovery continuum
• Critical incident stress management
• Evidence-based practice
• Basic crisis communication techniques
• Common psychological and behavioral crisis reactions
• Putative and empirically derived mechanisms
• SAFER-Revised model
• Suicide intervention
• Relevant research findings
• Large group crisis interventions
• Small group crisis interventions
• Adverse outcome associated with crisis intervention
• Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD)
Course Objectives:
1) Understand the natures & definitions of a psychological crisis and psychological crisis intervention.
2) Understand key issues and findings of evidence-based, and evidence-informed practice as it relates to psychological crisis intervention.
3) Understand the resistance, resiliency, recovery continuum.
4) Understand the nature and definition of critical incident stress management and its role as a continuum of care.
5) Practice basic crisis communication techniques.
6) Be familiar with common psychological and behavioral crisis reactions, including empirically derived predictors of posttraumatic stress disorder. Assisting Individuals in Crisis and Group Crisis Intervention Training
7) Understand the putative and empirically derived mechanisms of action in psychological crisis intervention.
8) Understand and discuss the risks of iatrogenic “harm” associated with psychological crisis intervention and will further discuss how to reduce those risks.
9) Understand how the SAFER-Revised model may be altered for suicide intervention.
10) Understand and discuss the risks of iatrogenic “harm” associated with psychological crisis intervention and will further discuss how to reduce those risks.
11) Understand and discuss the ethical implications, risks and obligations of providing group and individual crisis response services
12) Define key crisis terms such as “critical incident,” “crisis,” and “crisis intervention.”
13) Define key stress management terms such as “stress,” traumatic stress,” and “Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM).”
14) Explain role of the comprehensive, integrated, systematic, and multi-component crisis intervention system, known as “Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM).
15) Understand the nature of “resistance,” “resiliency,” and “recovery” in the field of CISM.
16) List components of a CISM program to conduct group crisis intervention sessions.
17) Briefly describe the five elements of CISM’s strategic planning formula.
18) Explain the differences between informational and interactive group crisis intervention procedures.
19) Practice by participation in role-play scenarios, the Informational Group Crisis Interventions such as a) Rest, Information, and Transition Services (RITS) and b) Crisis Management Briefing (CMB).
20) Practice by participation in role-play scenarios, the Interactive Group Crisis Intervention such as a) Debriefing and b) Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD).
Webinar Engagement #14: Coming Home After a Tragedy
Every day, first responders face moments that leave a lasting impact. Our webinar, “Coming Home After a Tragedy,” is here to help you manage the emotional toll, build resilience, and find support in a community that understands.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E41) Understanding Grief with Ali Amirsadri, M.D.
In this episode, we welcome Ali Amirsadri, M.D., a respected psychiatrist and mental health advocate. Dr. A serves as the Professor and Associate Chair for Clinical Services in the Department of Psychiatry at Wayne State University, the Chief Medical Officer for the Wayne Health Department of Psychiatry, and the Director of the FST5 Program. Drawing on over 20 years in emergency psychiatry, Dr. A provides invaluable insights into the clinical aspects of grief and loss. He shares practical tools to support individuals, families, and first responders as they navigate the complexities of grief and healing.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast brought to you by the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program. FST5 provides streamlined access to behavioral and mental health services, as well as crisis resources for Michigan’s frontline five workers and their families. NEED HELP NOW? If you are a frontline worker in Michigan or an immediate family member, experiencing any crisis – work-related, substance abuse, depression, relationships, finances, or any other, reach out by calling 1-833-34-STRONG or go to FST5.org for more information.