About Pulaski County FRSST
The Pulaski County First Responder Stress Support Team (FRSST) officially began operations on August 4th, 2024.
Across the nation, first responders face growing challenges when it comes to mental health and stress management. Rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suicide, divorce, and substance abuse continue to rise within the emergency services community. Recognizing the critical need to address these concerns, the Pulaski County FRSST was established to provide essential mental health support and crisis intervention resources for our local emergency personnel.
The mission of Pulaski County FRSST is to offer a confidential, judgment-free outlet where first responders can seek assistance following traumatic or high-stress incidents. By providing structured debriefings, peer support, and access to professional mental health care, the team aims to help responders process difficult experiences, prevent long-term psychological harm, and improve overall well-being and job performance. In addition to supporting our responders, programs like this also contribute to reduced workers’ compensation costs and improved retention within emergency services.
Pulaski County FRSST proudly stands as the second team of its kind in the region, following in the footsteps of our sister organization, Lake Area FRSST. Chief Joseph LaPlant and Deputy Chief Rob Odenwald of the Sunrise Beach Fire Protection District were instrumental in helping bring this initiative to Pulaski County, and we look forward to continuing a strong partnership between our teams.
The creation of this program would not have been possible without the dedication and leadership of Lieutenant Joe Don Wilkes of the Waynesville Rural Fire Protection District. Lieutenant Wilkes, along with several other passionate individuals, worked tirelessly to coordinate efforts and unite multiple agencies across Pulaski County. Through collaboration with Compass Health, Pulaski County FRSST now provides a free, comprehensive service to all emergency service agencies in the county. Support begins with Critical Incident Stress Debriefings (CISDs) conducted jointly by FRSST members and Compass Health professionals. Responders who require further assistance can then access ongoing mental health care through Compass Health’s established treatment programs.
All members who deploy as part of the Pulaski County FRSST are certified through the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF) as Certified Peer Support Specialists. This certification ensures that each team member is trained in evidence-based crisis intervention techniques, maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, confidentiality, and care during every deployment.
Since its inception, Pulaski County FRSST has grown significantly. What began as a small team of three dedicated members has expanded into three operational units, guided by an executive board — and even includes the addition of our certified therapy dog, Honey, who continues to bring comfort and calm to responders during times of need.
The Pulaski County FRSST remains committed to strengthening the mental health and resilience of those who dedicate their lives to serving others. Through teamwork, compassion, and community support, we are building a safer and stronger foundation for the first responders who protect us every day.
