911 At Ease International, Inc

The 'At Ease' program is committed to Keeping first responders strong, responding to the need for improved mental and behavioral health across first responder networks. Our program supports those on our frontlines with access to free, confidential, professional, trauma-informed counseling and services to heal from Post-Traumatic Stress and other effects of workplace events.

Quality mental healthcare is in great demand for first responders, amplified since Covid-19 and recent events. In these professions, individuals witness and respond to traumatic situations in our communities every day, with an impact that often results in Post-Traumatic Stress Injury and other significant issues (I.E. depression, substance abuse, marital and family issues, even suicide), which are a rampant concern across responder networks. As Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS) affects daily life, both on the job and at home, regard for the mental wellbeing and behavioral health of those involved intensifies.

While most of these professionals have access to therapy and treatment through employee assistance programs (EAPs), concerns about confidentiality often hinder participation. It is common for first responders to equate the need for therapy as a potential fitness for duty issue. Some first responders have faced concerns from employers or team members, damaged reputations, and even administrative leave or discharge from the job, for seeking counseling. Yet, trauma-informed counseling and support have shown a positive impact for creating resilience and Keeping our first responders strong to continue to respond to the needs of their communities.

911 At Ease International is a nonprofit organization that exists as a solution, by providing access to trauma-informed therapy and support to first responders and their families. The At Ease program is built upon firsthand experience and testimonies of healing from trauma-related injury through counseling and services provided. The founders and leaders in our organization cited a solution to this problem after having personally experienced and witnessed detrimental consequences of Post-Traumatic Stress due to first responder service. Each program operates independently from first responder departments, which allows ease of access and quick support, and ensures confidentiality.

How it works: At Ease provides services to first responders through local programs. Each program is comprised of several key elements, including department agency partnership, a network of trauma-informed clinicians, committee training and development, program marketing, oversight, and ongoing accountability. Local, vetted, culturally-competent clinicians serve first responders in their region. Each program is sustainable with the support of local collaboration. Each clinician is independent, licensed, and insured.

Our 6+ year organization began under the umbrella of the Santa Barbara Police Foundation, and over the years we began to receive requests to start an “At Ease program” in various parts of the country and world. In March of 2020, we began to respond to the need to expand nationwide. Our programs derive success in establishment with key leaders among first responder networks. We have used the success that is built around our Santa Barbara At Ease program to frame infrastructure for additional regions. 911AEI provides services for all first responders serving in law enforcement, fire departments, paramedics, and healthcare professionals in emergency rooms, COVID 19 floors and ICU staff.

Please view the video on our site www.911aei.org to find out more about the impact of our organization.