Episode 77 - First Responders Peer Support Network: Interview with Eric Stephenson
Episode 77 - First Responders Peer Support Network: Interview with Eric Stephenson

Recovery Is Possible

In this episode Eric Stephenson discusses the First Responders Peer Support Network which is doing great work helping First Responders get the help they need in a career that can be toxic to the mind, body, and spirit. You will not want to miss Eric ...

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49:54•20 Sept 2021

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Recovery Is Possible

Michael Van Meter

Michael has seen first-hand the devastating effects of addiction on the public, his profession, and himself. Michael began his career as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Navy. After eight years, he became a Corrections Officer, Washington DC Police Officer, and then FBI Agent. In 2010, Michael became an instructor at the FBI Academy. In 2013, he created a course titled “Leading At-Risk Employees” geared toward Police Executives to help them understand alcoholism, prescription drug abuse, PTSD, suicide, and domestic violence as it relates to policies and procedures for their agencies worldwide. In 2019, Michael retired from the FBI but his passion for helping others continued. In August 2022, he graduated with a Master’s in Addiction Counseling: Integrated Recovery for Co-Occurring Disorders from the Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies. He currently works full-time as a Behavioral Health Therapist at a large nonprofit hospital. Pulling from his personal and professional experience, Michael shares his thoughts on this sensitive, complex, and controversial subject.

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First Responders Find Hope: Eric Stephenson on Peer Support

“It took me to hit absolute rock bottom before I finally decided to go to a therapist, and I don't want anybody else to have to think: well, I'm, I'm already at rock bottom.”

Ever wondered how first responders cope with the intense stress and trauma that comes with their jobs? In this episode of 'Recovery Is Possible', host Michael Van Meter sits down with Eric Stephenson to discuss the invaluable work of the First Responders Peer Support Network. Eric sheds light on how this network provides a lifeline for those on the front lines, offering peer support to help navigate the mental and emotional toll of their demanding careers.

They delve into the often-overlooked struggles faced by first responders, including the stigma around seeking mental health help. Michael and Eric also explore life after a first responder career and the importance of finding support during that transition.

One memorable moment from the episode is when Michael shares, 'It took me to hit absolute rock bottom before I finally decided to go to a therapist, and I don't want anybody else to have to think: well, I'm already at rock bottom'. This quote underscores the critical message of the episode: seeking help is vital, no matter where you are in your journey.

If you or someone you know is a first responder dealing with trauma, this episode offers hope and practical advice. Tune in to learn more about the First Responders Peer Support Network and how it can be a game-changer for those who serve us all.

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