The IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery

Specialized Care for Fire Fighters and First Responders

The center is designed specifically for members of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) who face unique challenges from their work. This center provides a confidential, supportive space where peers share similar experiences and treatment is adapted to the culture and stressors of the fire service. A full continuum of substance use treatment is offered, with care plans featuring evidence-based therapies and 12-step or SMART recovery pathways. Medications for addiction treatment (MAT) for alcohol and opioid use disorders can be administered when needed to ease symptoms.

A Campus Built for Recovery

The forested campus spans seven buildings with therapy, dining, and residential spaces. Clients live in four firehouse-themed “station houses,” grouped by similar treatment needs to build camaraderie. Activities include walking trails among pines, working out in a fully equipped fitness center, and playing outdoor volleyball and basketball. Recreational options range from an outdoor pool and fire pit to a rec room with ping-pong, foosball, video/arcade games, and TV with NFL Sunday Ticket. Clients can relax in hammocks, practice yoga, and participate in animal-assisted therapy.

Focused Treatment for PTSD and Behavioral Health

Fire fighters and emergency medical workers face higher rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than the general population, and treating these challenges is a central focus of the program. Therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) help process trauma and manage symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Family and couples counseling are offered to help strengthen support networks at home. When needed, medications such as antidepressants can be integrated into care. This multifaceted approach ensures members address both mental health conditions and substance use together for lasting recovery.

Aftercare and Long-Term Support

Each client leaves with an individualized aftercare plan that may include relapse prevention strategies, alumni mentoring, and check-ins with clinicians. Return-to-work planning helps fire fighters and paramedics transition back to demanding roles safely. Connections to local behavioral health providers, 12-step meetings, and ongoing outpatient therapy help ensure continuity of care. Family follow-up counseling and peer support groups are also offered.

Client Reviews

Many firefighters describe the IAFF Center of Excellence as life-improving, with staff who understand first responder culture and challenges. Clients highlight strong peer support and effective therapies. A few note areas for growth around family involvement and program policies.

• Staff & Care Experience (95% positive): Clients consistently praise the compassion and professionalism of clinicians, nurses, and support staff. “The staff understands first responders on a level you won’t find anywhere else.”
• Treatment Quality & Outcomes (95% positive): Many report transformative results, from overcoming PTSD and addiction to restoring relationships and rediscovering purpose. “This place gave me my family back, and for that, I’ll be forever thankful.”
• Support & Community (90% positive): The firefighter peer environment is described as crucial to healing, offering acceptance and lifelong connections. “The brotherhood is still alive and well.”
• Facility & Environment: Reviews often describe the setting as safe, structured, and comfortable. Some suggested upgrades to amenities like showers and meals.
• Family Involvement & Visitation: A few clients expressed that family therapy options were too limited. Some called for deeper integration of family support in the program.