Synopsis: This workshop will serve the purpose of educating participants about the first responder community as well as conducting an initial needs assessment for the development of a future Public Safety Certification program. Content around first responder culture, common exposures, clinical implications, risk factors, and associated legal and regulatory statutes will be reviewed. This is an engaging workshop, and participants will be asked for real-time feedback on which content feels most impactful to them, based on their knowledge. No prior experience working with public safety professionals is required. Come be at the forefront of formalizing this emerging sector.

Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to:
1.  Identify common experiences, clinical presentations and misconceptions within the first responder professions.
2. Identify current statutes and regulations impacting clinical work with public safety professionals
3. Analyze their personal biases, and that of the mental health professions, to understand how these perceptions impact clinical and professional interactions.
4. Consider which clinical and practical implications are most necessary to be considered for the development of a certificate program.