Author Archive: Maryna Arakcheieva

Mandated Reporting: Protecting Others, Supporting Responders (September 30, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM. Registration is Open.)

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This webinar prepares frontline professionals to recognize and respond to potential child abuse, neglect, and human trafficking encountered during routine and emergency interactions. Using a practical, trauma-informed approach, participants will understand how trauma can influence behavior and disclosure, how to communicate without leading or investigating, and how to document and report concerns based on their professional role. The session also explores the immediate and long-term effects these encounters can have on frontline workers, offering practical guidance on staying grounded, recognizing ongoing impacts, and accessing peer, clinical, and wellness support. The goal is to foster confident, compassionate action that ensures safety, maintains dignity, connects individuals with appropriate resources, and supports responder well-being.

REGISTER

📅 September 30, 2026
⏰ 10:30 AM to 02:00 PM

Learning objectives

At the conclusion of this webinar, participants will be able to:

Recognize how exposure to child abuse, neglect, trafficking, and difficult disclosures may affect frontline workers and identify practical ways to manage that impact and access support

Recognize common warning signs of child abuse, neglect, and human trafficking.

Describe the frontline worker’s role when something raises concern, including the difference between reporting a concern and conducting an investigation.

Identify the appropriate reporting steps and available resources based on the situation and the frontline worker’s professional role.

Presenter information:

· Tehmina Shakir, M.D., DAAETS, Assistant Professor (Clinical), Wayne State University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences; child and adolescent psychiatrist, Wayne Health; Diplomate, American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress, with extensive teaching and training experience in childhood trauma, sexual abuse, human
trafficking, trauma-informed care, and first responder cultural competency.

· Rebecca L. Klisz-Hulbert, M.D., Associate Professor (Clinical), Wayne State University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences; child and adolescent psychiatrist; Tamara van den Bergh Ferguson Endowed Chair in Transdisciplinary Psychiatric Education.

· Geoff Lassers: Paramedic, EMS I/C 1480924, will serve as host and moderator.

Who This Is For: Law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS providers, correctional officers, and 911 dispatchers across Michigan. 

Continuing Education (CE) – This webinar is approved for the following:

  • Continuing Education Credits: 1.5 Hours (90-minute webinar) Preparatory
  • All EMS License Levels: MFR, EMT, AEMT, and Paramedic
  • Participant Evaluation Method: Participant understanding will be reinforced through instructor-led discussion and audience interaction during the webinar. No formal evaluation of participants will occur
REGISTER

The FST5 Program is diligently working toward continuing education credits for law enforcement, corrections, and the fire service.

Understanding the FST5 Resources Available to You and Your Family (September 30, 2026, from 09:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Registration is Open.)

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This webinar provides a clear overview of the Frontline Strong Together (FST5) program, including why it was created, what services are available, and how Michigan first responders and their immediate family members can access support at no cost. Participants will learn about the 24/7 confidential resource line, training and education opportunities, peer support resources, and connections to culturally competent, evidence-based mental health care. The session is designed to increase awareness of the full scope of FST5 services and how this information can be shared within departments and families to support early access to help.

REGISTER

📅 September 30, 2026
⏰ 09:00 AM to 10:00 AM

Learning objectives:

· Describe what Frontline Strong Together (FST5) is, including why it was created and the mental and behavioral health needs it was designed to address for Michigan first responders and their families.

· Identify the core components of FST5, including the 24/7 confidential resource line, training and education offerings, peer support resources, and clinical connections.

· Explain how Michigan first responders and their immediate family members can access FST5 services, including when and how to use the resource line and website.

· Recognize the types of support FST5 can provide, ranging from crisis support and peer connection to education, training, and referral to treatment.

· Describe how FST5 services can be shared within departments, agencies, and families to increase awareness and utilization of available support.

Continuing Education Credits: 1.0 Hours (60-minute webinar) Preparatory

All EMS License Levels: MFR, EMT, AEMT, and Paramedic

Presenter information: Geoff Lassers, Paramedic EMS I/C 1480924, will serve as host and moderator. The applicable information will be presented by subject-matter experts from the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program.

· Scott Taylor, FST5 Lead Support Specialist

· Ryan Fessenden, FST5 Administrative Coordinator, Retired 911 Dispatcher

· Jim Peyton, FST5 Program Call Center Administrator, Former Firefighter/Paramedic

· Mike Mattern FST5 Peer, Firefighter/Paramedic, EMS I/C

· Mike Wierenga FST5 Peer, Retired law enforcement officer, Co-Founder 2 the Rescue

Who This Is For: Law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS providers, correctional officers, and 911 dispatchers across Michigan. 

Continuing Education (CE) – This webinar is approved for the following:

  • EMS: 1.5 Preparatory CE Credit. Approved by the MDHHS BETP (approval number: 26-ICE-17729)
  • 911 Telecommunications:  1 CE Credit Approved by MiSNAP (approval number: FST2026- 6474).
REGISTER

The FST5 Program is diligently working toward continuing education credits for law enforcement, corrections, and the fire service.

The Frontline Brain: Beyond Talk Therapy – Exploring qEEG, Neurofeedback, and EMDR (August 26, 2026, from 12:30 PM to 02:00 PM. Registration is Open.)

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This webinar is designed to demystify clinical mental health care by giving frontline workers a clear overview of how clinicians evaluate symptoms and use that information to guide individualized care. Dr. Jason Wilkinson will explain the purpose of clinical interviews, personal history, symptom assessment, and psychological testing and then introduce qEEG, neurofeedback, and EMDR. Medication, sleep, and other factors that can influence brain function and treatment will be addressed within the applicable sections. The goal is to reduce uncertainty and apprehension about clinical care and help participants better understand what to expect when seeking support for themselves or someone they care about.

REGISTER

📅 August 26, 2026
⏰ 12:30 AM to 02:00 PM

Learning objectives

At the conclusion of this webinar, participants will be able to:

· Describe the purpose and key components of a clinical mental health evaluation and how the findings help guide individualized treatment.

· Explain the role and limitations of quantitative electroencephalography, or qEEG, as a tool used to measure brainwave activity and provide additional information about brain function.

· Describe neurofeedback and how it may be used to support improved brain regulation.

· Describe the purpose of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR, as a trauma-focused therapy used to help individuals reprocess traumatic experiences.

Continuing Education Credits: 1.5 Hours (90-minute webinar) Preparatory

All EMS License Levels: MFR, EMT, AEMT, and Paramedic

Participant Evaluation Method: Participant understanding will be reinforced through instructor-led discussion and audience interaction during the webinar. No formal evaluation of participants will occur.

Evaluation of Presentation: Participants will complete a standard course evaluation form.

Presenter information:

· Geoff Lassers (1480924) will serve as host and moderator.

· Jason D. Wilkinson, PhD, LPC, LLP, CAADC, will serve as the key presenter and subject matter expert. Dr. Wilkinson is a clinical psychologist and an assistant professor in Wayne State University’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences. He provides care through Wayne Health. Via FST5, Dr. Wilkinson supports Michigan frontline workers and their families with clinical evaluation and personalized treatment, including trauma-focused care, qEEG, neurofeedback, and EMDR.

Who This Is For: Law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS providers, correctional officers, and 911 dispatchers across Michigan. 

Continuing Education (CE) – This webinar is approved for the following:

  • EMS: 1.5 Preparatory CE Credit. Approved by the MDHHS BETP (approval number: 26-ICE-17729). All EMS License Levels: MFR, EMT, AEMT, and Paramedic
  • 911 Telecommunications:  1 CE Credit Approved by MiSNAP (approval number: FST2026- 6474).
REGISTER

The FST5 Program is diligently working toward continuing education credits for law enforcement, corrections, and the fire service.

Understanding the FST5 Resources Available to You and Your Family (August 26, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Registration is Open.)

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This webinar provides a clear overview of the Frontline Strong Together (FST5) program, including why it was created, what services are available, and how Michigan first responders and their immediate family members can access support at no cost. Participants will learn about the 24/7 confidential resource line, training and education opportunities, peer support resources, and connections to culturally competent, evidence-based mental health care. The session is designed to increase awareness of the full scope of FST5 services and how this information can be shared within departments and families to support early access to help.

REGISTER

📅 August 26, 2026
⏰ 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Learning objectives:

· Describe what Frontline Strong Together (FST5) is, including why it was created and the mental and behavioral health needs it was designed to address for Michigan first responders and their families.

· Identify the core components of FST5, including the 24/7 confidential resource line, training and education offerings, peer support resources, and clinical connections.

· Explain how Michigan first responders and their immediate family members can access FST5 services, including when and how to use the resource line and website.

· Recognize the types of support FST5 can provide, ranging from crisis support and peer connection to education, training, and referral to treatment.

· Describe how FST5 services can be shared within departments, agencies, and families to increase awareness and utilization of available support.

Continuing Education Credits: 1.0 Hours (60-minute webinar) Preparatory

All EMS License Levels: MFR, EMT, AEMT, and Paramedic

Presenter information: Geoff Lassers, Paramedic EMS I/C 1480924, will serve as host and moderator. The applicable information will be presented by subject-matter experts from the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program.

· Scott Taylor, FST5 Lead Support Specialist

· Ryan Fessenden, FST5 Administrative Coordinator, Retired 911 Dispatcher

· Jim Peyton, FST5 Program Call Center Administrator, Former Firefighter/Paramedic

· Mike Mattern FST5 Peer, Firefighter/Paramedic, EMS I/C

· Mike Wierenga FST5 Peer, Retired law enforcement officer, Co-Founder 2 the Rescue

Who This Is For: Law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS providers, correctional officers, and 911 dispatchers across Michigan. 

Continuing Education (CE) – This webinar is approved for the following:

  • EMS: 1.5 Preparatory CE Credit. Approved by the MDHHS BETP (approval number: 26-ICE-17729)
  • 911 Telecommunications:  1 CE Credit Approved by MiSNAP (approval number: FST2026- 6474).
REGISTER

The FST5 Program is diligently working toward continuing education credits for law enforcement, corrections, and the fire service.

Open House Event with Herman Moore

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Explore the new Oakland 360 Care Center and meet legendary NFL wide receiver Herman Moore. Moore will be available to meet
& greet attendees while providing autographs from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Have a chance to win raffle items while enjoying food and beverages

Same Event, Different Wounds: Understanding Survivor and First Responder Trauma Through a Clinical Lens (July 22, 2026, from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM) Registration is Open.

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Same event. Two completely different experiences of it. On July 22, Oxford High School shooting survivor Kylie Ossege and the firefighter-paramedic who treated her, Justin Templeton, share their perspectives from that day — and the years since. FST5 clinicians unpack why trauma hits survivors, responders, and families so differently, and what actually helps afterward.

REGISTER

📅 July 22, 2026
⏰ 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM

What this webinar is about:

This webinar uses the lived experiences of Oxford High School shooting survivor Kylie Ossege and firefighter-paramedic Justin Templeton to explore how the same traumatic event can affect survivors, responders, families, and frontline workers in different ways. Justin and Kylie will share their perspectives from the incident and the years that followed, while FST5 clinicians provide an evidence-informed clinical lens on trauma exposure, survival responses, memory, emotional processing, responder compartmentalization, uncertainty, closure, meaning, connection, and recovery. The intent is not to clinically analyze or diagnose Justin or Kylie, but to help frontline workers better understand normal human responses to abnormal events and identify practical ways to support themselves, their peers, survivors, families, and communities after critical incidents.

Who This Is For: Law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS providers, correctional officers, and 911 dispatchers across Michigan.

What You’ll Learn. By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Recognize common trauma responses like fight, flight, freeze, and memory gaps
  • Tell the difference between in-the-moment survival reactions and delayed reactions that hit later
  • Understand that the same event can affect survivors, responders, and families differently
  • Identify what makes post-incident processing harder for responders, like triage decisions and lack of closure
  • Describe ways to support recovery, including peer support, check-ins, and finding meaning

Presenters:

  • Justin Templeton is a firefighter-paramedic who responded to the 2021 Oxford High School shooting while working with the Oxford Fire Department.  
  •  Kylie Ossege is an Oxford High School shooting survivor who was injured during the incident and later became a public voice of appreciation, resilience, and perspective. 
  • Rebecca L. Klisz-Hulbert, M.D., Assistant Professor (Clinical), Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine; Director of Child and Adolescent Public Psychiatry and Community Outreach; Program Director, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship. 
  • Danielle Taylor, Ph.D., Assistant Professor (Research Educator), Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Division of Translational Neuroscience, Wayne State University School of Medicine; Clinical Therapist, Wayne Health.  

Continuing Education (CE) – This webinar is approved for the following:

  • EMS: 1.5 Preparatory CE Credit. Approved by the MDHHS BETP (approval number: 26-ICE-17729)
  • 911 Telecommunications:  1 CE Credit Approved by MiSNAP (approval number: FST2026- 6474).
REGISTER

The FST5 Program is diligently working toward continuing education credits for law enforcement, corrections, and the fire service.

The First 30 Days After Trauma: What Frontline Workers Need to Know Before Stress Becomes PTSD (June 16, 2026, from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM) Registration is Open.

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📅 June 16, 2026
⏰ 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

What this webinar is about:

The first 30 days after a traumatic event can change everything. This free live webinar gives first responders the practical knowledge to recognize Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) early — in themselves and the people next to them — and understand what support looks like before stress becomes something harder to carry.

REGISTER

Who This Is For Law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS providers, correctional officers, and 911 dispatchers across Michigan.

What You’ll Learn

  • What Acute Stress Disorder is and how it develops after trauma
  • Key symptoms to recognize — in yourself and your team
  • The difference between ASD and PTSD and why timing matters
  • Practical frontline-level support actions
  • Confidential resources available to you right now

Presented by Danielle Taylor, Ph.D. Licensed Psychologist | Assistant Professor, Wayne State University School of Medicine | Clinical Therapist, Wayne Health Psychiatry Hosted by Geoff Lassers

Continuing Education (CE) – This webinar is approved for the following:

  • EMS: 1.5 Preparatory CE Credit. Approved by the MDHHS BETP (approval number: 26-ICE-17729)
  • 911 Telecommunications:  1 CE Credit Approved by MiSNAP (approval number: FST2026- 6474).

The FST5 Program is diligently working toward continuing education credits for law enforcement, corrections, and the fire service.

Learning objectives:

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

1. Define Acute Stress Disorder and describe its development after trauma.

2. Identify key symptoms and behavioral changes associated with ASD and PTSD.

3. Compare and contrast ASD with PTSD and other trauma reactions.

4. List and describe practical frontline-level support actions that may help individuals in the early phase of trauma response.

5. List clinical and organizational resources for assessment and care.

What to Expect When You Call the FST5 Support Line

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A lot of first responders hesitate to call because they don’t know what happens next. Here’s what you can actually expect.

Who answers the phone The FST5 line is staffed by first responders with at least 10 years in the field. They understand the culture, the job, and the weight that comes with it. You won’t have to explain yourself.

You stay in control You decide what you share and how far the conversation goes. Nothing is set in motion without you. You can start, stop, or step back at any point.

Your privacy is fully protected Nothing is reported to your department. The State of Michigan cannot see who calls. Your anonymity is protected from start to finish — no exceptions.

No reason is too small Bad shift. Trouble at home. Financial stress. Just needing someone to listen. There is no wrong reason to call. Family members can call too.

You won’t be handed off and forgotten FST5 stays with you through the process — connecting you with resources, clinicians, and support every step of the way.

1-833-34-STRONG (1-833-347-8766)

Finding the Right Mental Health Provider

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Getting matched with the right clinician starts with a simple intake form — covering your location, whether you prefer in-person or telehealth, your therapy preferences, and more. From there, FST5 connects you with a culturally competent provider who understands first responder culture, so you spend less time explaining and more time actually talking.

The first few sessions are about building rapport and getting to know your story — not quick fixes. And if the connection isn’t there? That’s okay. You can always reach back out to FST5 and request a different clinician. No hurt feelings. No judgment. Just finding what works for you.

EMS Week

EMS Week 2026

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EMS Week

This EMS Week, we recognize the strength, compassion, and commitment of EMS professionals across Michigan and beyond.

Thank you for answering the call, showing up in difficult moments, and continuing to care for your communities every day.

To those who keep order where it’s hardest to hold – thank you.
At FST5, support is built for you:

Confidential 24/7 resource line
Peer support from people who understand the job
Clinicians experienced in working with first responders
You don’t have to wait until something feels “serious” to reach out.
—
FST5 Program. Supporting the wellness of Michigan’s first responders and their families.
In crisis or in need of resources call 1-833-34-STRONG (1-833-347-8766

National Police Week 2026

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This National Police Week, we honor the officers who continue to serve their communities every day — and remember those who gave their lives in the line of duty.

We also recognize the families, partners, peers, and departments who carry the weight of this profession alongside them.

Thank you for your service and sacrifice.

To those who keep order where it’s hardest to hold – thank you.
At FST5, support is built for you:

Confidential 24/7 resource line
Peer support from people who understand the job
Clinicians experienced in working with first responders
You don’t have to wait until something feels “serious” to reach out.
—
FST5 Program. Supporting the wellness of Michigan’s first responders and their families.
In crisis or in need of resources call 1-833-34-STRONG (1-833-347-8766

National Correctional Officer’s Week

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Correctional officers work in one of the most demanding and least understood environments in public safety.

Long shifts. Constant vigilance. Pressure most people never see.

This week, we recognize the role you carry – and the weight that comes with it.

To those who keep order where it’s hardest to hold – thank you.
At FST5, support is built for you:

Confidential 24/7 resource line
Peer support from people who understand the job
Clinicians experienced in working with first responders
You don’t have to wait until something feels “serious” to reach out.
—
FST5 Program. Supporting the wellness of Michigan’s first responders and their families.
In crisis or in need of resources call 1-833-34-STRONG (1-833-347-8766

FST5 Support Specialists: The Link between First Responders and Support (May 27, 2026, from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM)

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📅 May 27, 2026
⏰ 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

What this webinar is about

This webinar provides a clear overview of the role and value of FST5 Support Specialists within the Frontline Strong Together 5 (FST5) Program, helping participants understand what an FST5 Support Specialists is and how they support Michigan’s first responders, their families, and their departments.

REGISTER

The session highlights how FST5 Support Specialists function as trained peer supporters, educators, resource navigators, and ambassadors, connecting individuals and organizations to resources, education, and clinical care. The course also outlines the qualifications, expectations, and responsibilities of the role, as the FST5 Program is actively seeking to recruit and hire additional peers across Michigan to support continued program growth and meet the needs of the frontline community.

Continuing Education (CE) – This webinar is approved for the following:

  • EMS: 1.5 Preparatory CE Credit. Approved by the MDHHS BETP (approval number: 26-ICE-17087)
  • 911 Telecommunications:  1 CE Credit Approved by MiSNAP.

The FST5 Program is diligently working toward continuing education credits for law enforcement, corrections, and the fire service.

Presenters:

Geoff Lassers (1480924) will serve as host and moderator.  The applicable information will be presented by subject-matter experts from the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program, including:   

Scott Taylor, FST5 Lead Support Specialist, Retired Law Enforcement 

Ryan Fessenden, FST5 Administrative Coordinator, Retired 911 Dispatcher 

Learning objectives:

By the end of this session, participants will be able to: 

  • Describe the role, purpose, and value of an FST5 Peer within the Frontline Strong Together 5 (FST5) Program. 
  • Explain how FST5 Peers support first responders and their families. 
  • Explain how to access and effectively utilize an FST5 Peer. 
  • Describe how FST5 Peers support departments and agencies. 
  • Identify the expectations, qualifications, and process for becoming and serving as an FST5 Peer. 

How to Start a Peer Support Team (April 23, 2026, from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM) Registration Closed

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📅 April 23, 2026
⏰ 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

What this webinar is about

This webinar provides a clear, practical guide for first responder agencies to
understand, build, and implement effective peer support teams,
with support from the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program.

REGISTER

Continuing Education (CE) – This webinar is approved for the following:

  • EMS: 1.5 Preparatory CE Credit. Approved by the MDHHS BETP (approval number: 26-ICE-17087)
  • 911 Telecommunications: 1 CE Credit Approved by MiSNAP (approval number: FST2026-6319)

The FST5 Program is diligently working toward continuing education credits for law enforcement, corrections, and the fire service.

Presenters:

Mike Mattern — Firefighter-paramedic, EMS I/C and peer support team expert; Mike Wierenga — Retired law enforcement officer and co-founder of 2 the Rescue; Jim Peyton — Former Firefighter-Paramedic, FST5 Call Center Manager; Scott Taylor — FST5 Lead Support Specialist, Retired Law Enforcement; Ryan Fessenden — FST5 Administrative Coordinator, Retired 911 Dispatcher; Geoff Lassers — Firefighter-paramedic, EMS I/C and content creator.

Learning objectives:

  • Provide an overview of what Frontline Strong Together (FST5) is, including why it was
    created and the mental and behavioral health needs it was designed to address for
    Michigan first responders and their families.
  • Describe what a peer support team is and the role it plays in supporting first responders.
  • Differentiate peer support teams from Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) teams.
  • Describe how peer support teams and CISM teams complement one another.
  • Describe the role of confidentiality in peer support programs.
  • Identify the training required for peer support team members.
  • Describe how departments can select peer support team members and collaborate with
    clinicians.
  • Appreciate the importance of self-care for peer support team members.
  • Describe how agencies can introduce and implement a peer support team within their
    department.
    Continuing Education (CE) – This webinar is approved for the following:
  • EMS: 1.5 Preparatory CE Credit. Approved by the MDHHS BETP (approval number: 26-ICE-17087)
  • 911 Telecommunications: 1 CE Credit Approved by MiSNAP (approval number: FST2026-6319)
  • The FST5 Program is diligently working toward continuing education credits for law enforcement,
    corrections, and the fire service.

Understanding FST5 Resources Available to You and Your Family. (March 30, 2026, 11:15 AM – 12:15 PM) Registration Closed

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📅 March 30, 2026
⏰ 11:15 AM -12:15 PM

What this webinar is about

This session gives a clear overview of the mental health, peer support, and wellness resources available through FST5 for first responders and their families. Learn how to access services, what to expect, and how departments can connect members to support.

Register

Continuing Education (CE) Credits: 

Approved for 1 Preparatory EMS CE credit through the MDHHS BETP. 

Approved for 1 Dispatch Continuing Education (CE) credit.

CE credits are NOT currently approved for Fire, Law Enforcement, or Corrections. FST5 is actively working to expand CE approval to all frontline disciplines for future events.