Level 1: Peer Development Training This comprehensive training provides a general overview and ‘basic training’ for individuals and Peer Support Personnel, giving the participant the most relevant, clinically informed methods, tools and experiential resources for addressing the complex effects of traumatic stress. Through authentic connection with Gina Essex, MA LPC and SST’s Lead Peer team, participants learn and develop effective methods and strategies to identify, prevent and navigate symptoms for themselves and others.

This training also provides a road map for increased sustainability and resiliency for the individuals who are currently working on the front-lines for Police, Fire and Emergency Medical Departments in West Michigan.

Level 2: Peer Cultural Development Training: This ‘next level’ training stands on the shoulders of the Level 1 Peer Development Training by offering individuals and Peer Support Personnel a platform to become a leader and agent of change. This training equips participants with the necessary tools, methods and experience to obtain a greater intellectual and embodied understanding needed for true cultural change within a Department, Institution or Family system. In this next-level, clinically informed training created and led by Gina Essex, MA LPC participants will not only ‘know’ and 'understand’ more about the complexities and unique needs of themselves and others who suffer, they will experience change internally and become more able to demonstrate and ‘be’ the change needed for shattering the stigma.

This training teaches participants how to be the change through clinical teaching, experiential learning and authentic relationships. Being the change makes systemic change a real possibility. All individuals of the SST Lead Peer Team will take this training as a requirement, to lead by example, with the hope of shattering the stigma through deeper and more meaningful connections with themselves and others.

Complex PTSD and First Responder Cultural Competency Training: Facilitated by SST and co-led by SST’s Lead Peer Team, this training has been developed by Gina Essex, MA LPC to cultivate a culturally competent and clinically relevant network of Mental Health Professionals and Health Practitioners who are dedicated to working with First Responders, Veterans and their families. Gina has built this training curriculum based on 20 years of clinical work with First Responders, and 10 years of providing clinical trauma model education and consultation for hundreds of Health Professionals world-wide. Together, we aim to provide local, vetted and dedicated Mental Health Professionals and Health Practitioners with the necessary cultural competency, clinical tools, somatic methods to provide a solid foundation of embodied understanding to support their work with First Responders, Veterans and their families.

Additionally, this training focuses on navigating the hazards and effects of vicarious trauma and compassion fatigue, often experienced by Mental Health Professionals, Health Practitioners and some First Responders.

Trauma Recovery & Program Development Scholarships: Access to culturally competent professional Mental Health services are crucial for individuals grappling with the effects of traumatic stress. However, financial barriers often hinder individuals from seeking the help they desperately need and deserve. SST addresses this issue by offering trauma recovery and training sponsorships, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to accessing quality Mental Health care. These sponsorships enable individuals to receive specialized trauma recovery services and enable Departments and Organizations to provide Levels 1 & 2 Peer Development Trainings, and Complex PTSD & First Responder Cultural Competency Training.

Building a vast network of support requires engagement and outreach. SST organizes events, workshops, and outreach programs. These initiatives provide opportunities for raising awareness, education, dialogue, and connection with the aim of building a culture of understanding and acceptance among First Responders, Veterans, and their families.