The Presenters

CLICK ON PRESENTER IMAGES TO LEARN EVEN MORE!

Matt Griffin - KEYNOTE

Matthew is a 21-year Veteran of the US Navy, Virginia Beach Police Department and Keene NH Police department. Matthew specialized in undercover operations during his tenure and was assigned to the Attorney Generals Drug Task Force.

Today, Matthew's journey has led him to become the owner of Journey Speaking and Books. This venture followed the successful release of his book, "The Journey to Midnight," which achieved the remarkable feat of securing the #1 spot on Amazon's bestseller list four times. Matthew has been featured across a spectrum of media platforms, including podcasts, TV shows, and the PBS hit series "Hiding in Plain Sight," where he was chosen as the headline for season two. He is currently finishing the screenplay with the help of a nationally recognized screenwriter to feature as a major motion picture.

As a national speaker, mentor, and consultant, Matthew is driven by a profound passion for reshaping the cultural narrative around mental health. His advocacy extends to law enforcement, the military, Firefighting, emergency services and anyone willing to find the light at the end of the tunnel.

The Treasure in the Trauma: Trauma can take on many forms. It can leave us lost, broken, and alone. However, what if we shifted our perspective and saw trauma as an opportunity for growth and transformation? What if we could turn pain into progress, what would we be able to accomplish? This presentation will explore the idea that, even in the midst of our most difficult experiences, there is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. A father, US Navy Search and Rescue swimmer, Law Enforcement Officer and undercover cop, Matthew spent years pretending to be someone he was not. Eventually the secrets caught up. Matthew decided he had nothing left to offer his family, friends and community. A chance phone call stopped him from taking his own life. Learn how Matthew can help start on the roadmap to recovery.

Dr. Ben Stone - Guest Speaker (Virtual Presentation)

Upon graduation from the University of Arkansas, Dr. Benjamin Stone attended Exeter College of Oxford University (UK) through the United States Air Force Institute of Technology. At Oxford, Dr. Stone developed a keen interest in cardiovascular physiology. He completed his PhD and related coursework for his medical doctorate and also coordinated research at the British Olympic Medical Institute, Oxford Nutraceuticals Group, and Cambridge University. Dr. Stone served as Assistant Professor of Exercise Physiology at the University of Central Arkansas, Sr. Tutor at Oxford University, and designed curriculums for the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.

In 2017, Dr. Stone co-developed Sigma Tactical Wellness, an organization intent on determining the causes-of and reducing the prevalence of coronary disease in law enforcement officers throughout the United States. To date, his program has screened more than 7000 police officers and the derived data and methods are being used across the nation to save countless lives.

As a well-regarded lecturer, Dr. Stone has presented data at the International Association of Chiefs of Police conferences, several state Chiefs Associations, The FBI National Academy Associates, and many other state, local, and federal law-enforcement agencies.

Bullet-Proofing Your Heart: Cardiac Safety in Law-Enforcement: In his presentation, Dr. Stone will outline the scope of heart disease within public safety occupations and will discuss why it appears to be so prevalent within high-stress occupations. The presentation will involve a complete breakdown of cardiac disease within public safety occupations by determining: Why it is prevalent in law-enforcement and fire-service? Why it is commonly seen in 25-40yr old agents of public safety? Why it is commonly mis-diagnosed when using cardiac risk modeling specific to civilian populations?

Dr. Stone will outline new and emerging trends in cardiac disease detection and help listeners understand why traditional diagnostic methods don’t apply to agents of public safety. Participants will be led step by step through a timeline of the process of atherosclerosis (arterial plaque development) all the way through the development of a heart attack. Participants will also develop a profound understanding of what diagnostic resources are currently at their disposal for detection of this issue along the way. Dr Stone will help patients understand the processes of “inflammation” specific to the coronary vasculature and how this process can be moderated with diet, changes in lifestyle, and medications. Each participant will leave with a renewed understanding of the prerequisite diagnostics necessary to properly identify cardiac risk specific to occupations of public safety.

Deanna Parrish - Guest Speaker

Deanna Parrish is a principal and founder of First Responders Pharmacy. She also serves as a patient advocate for first responders who receive prescription medications through workers compensation insurance. She was in private practice as an attorney for over 25 years specializing in workers' compensation for first responders and injured workers. She is experienced in navigating the workers' compensation system. She is passionate about helping first responders who are injured on the job or who have developed a medical condition as a result of their employment.

First Responder Pharmacy: First Responders Pharmacy is a boutique, mail-order pharmacy specializing in filling medication for first responders receiving treatment under workers compensation. Our patient advocates are lawyers with expertise in workers compensation law, and who are available for patient consultation 24/7. Our pharmacist, Tim, has over 30 years of experience. We communicate directly with our patients, their doctors, their attorneys, and their adjusters to ensure streamlined medication delivery at no cost to the patient. We overnight all of our medications and track each delivery. We have a large charitable arm, and we support charities and events with a focus on improving the health - both mental and physical - of all members of the first responder community.

Kevin Kuchta - Guest Speaker (Virtual Presentation)

Kevin Kuchta is the co-founder of First Response Mental Health (FRMH), a technology organization dedicated to advancing mental health and wellness solutions for workplaces, agencies, and individuals. With a focus on Proactive Peer Support, FRMH partners with EMS, Police, Fire, Corrections, Military, Hospitals, and other organizations to implement mental health strategies that improve both individual wellbeing and organizational performance.

FRMH introduced PeerConnect, an innovative platform designed to create proactive support networks and strengthen mental health resources within organizations. PeerConnect has successfully implemented statewide initiatives that enable small organizations to use a regional approach when offering mental health supports. In an exciting new partnership, PeerConnect has teamed up with insurance agencies to offer the platform at net zero cost to organizations, ensuring that even those with limited resources can access vital mental health support.

From Good Intentions to Real Impact - Supporting Your People Effectively: First responders and peer supporters are driven by a deep desire to help—but without the right approach, even the best intentions can lead to burnout, inefficiency, and isolation. We will explore the hidden pitfalls of unstructured peer support, key behaviors of successful teams, and share practical tools to sustain impact.

Sonny Provetto, LICSW

Sonny Provetto, MSW, LICSW, is the founder of the Vermont Center for Responder Wellness. As an EMDRIA-approved consultant and former police officer, Sonny brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the field of responder wellness. His research focuses on maintaining resilience among responders in the face of trauma.

Sonny provides proactive wellness services to over 20 departments in Vermont. With over 36 years of combined experience as a police officer and emergency mental health clinician, his clinical practice is deeply informed by his firsthand experiences. He consults on stress and trauma issues with police officers, firefighters, emergency responders, and their organizations, working closely with them and developing proactive wellness programming.

In 2017, Sonny played a pivotal role in his testimony before the Vermont legislature as a subject matter expert on PTSD, influencing legislation that made Vermont the first state to recognize PTSD as a compensable work-related injury for first responders. He is also the recipient of the EMDRIA Advocacy Award for his contributions to advancing EMDR practices with responders soon after traumatic events.

Sonny is currently conducting research on the Acute Stress Adaptive Protocol (ASAP), which he developed to reduce acute stress symptoms and enhance responder resilience if used soon after a traumatic event. His work aims to measure the effectiveness of ASAP in mitigating the immediate impacts of trauma and fostering long-term resilience among first responders.

Clearing the Call - ASAP: An EMDR Trauma Intervention for First Responders: First responders often return from high-impact calls carrying more than just the weight of the gear on their shoulders. Clearing the Call introduces attendees to the Acute Stress Adaptive Protocol (ASAP)—a peer-delivered, EMDR-informed intervention designed specifically for frontline professionals navigating the aftermath of critical incidents.

Developed with the unique needs of law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, and dispatchers in mind, ASAP bridges the gap between exposure and healing. This presentation will explore the clinical foundations of the protocol, its core components—including adaptive memory activation, peer-to-peer delivery, and container exercises—and the emerging data supporting its effectiveness in real-world settings.

Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how peer support can go beyond conversation to actively process traumatic stress in the hours, days, and weeks following a difficult call. Whether you're a clinician, peer team leader, or agency decision-maker, this session offers a new model of care that meets trauma where it starts.

Elise Magnuson, PsyD, L.C.S.W.

Dr. Magnuson is a Licensed Psychologist in the State of Maine with a private practice based in Portland, specializing in evaluations, forensic evaluations, and consultations. Dr. Magnuson brings breadth and depth to her understanding of individuals and why they engage in behavior. As a mental health professional for almost two decades she has developed a clear understanding of how people respond to difficult situations and has formulated recommendations for what comes next.

Dr. Magnuson conducts risk assessments, psychosexuals, competency evaluations (to stand trial, waive rights, confess), guardianship evaluations, criminal responsibility, diagnosis and treatment need evaluations, fitness for duty, and parental capacity evaluations for people involved in the court process. Evaluated, provided written reports, consulted and testified about the assessments. Provide feedback on other professional’s reports. Provide disability evaluations for SSD.

Fit for Duty - Understanding Evaluations: Understanding how Fit for Duty evaluations are used in the First Responder community. Understanding the process for administration and the front-line worker.

Sarah Mildrum, LCSW, ERPSCC

Sarah is the owner and CEO of Guiding Light Behavioral Health and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

As Maine’s first Emergency Responder and Public Safety Certified Clinician (ERPSCC), she is an expert and visionary in the field of prevention and treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Injury in first responders.

Sarah studied sociology and political science as an undergraduate at the University of New England where she found her passion for making an impact in the lives of others. She continued to study the complexities of our society at the UNE and earned her Master of Social Work degree in 2015.

As the wife of a firefighter, she quickly experienced both the positive and negative implications public safety careers have on individuals and their families.

Sarah is also a mom, a native Mainer, a disc golf enthusiast, and a fan of all things outdoor recreation.

Trainings and Professional Credentials include:

Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Emergency Responder and Public Safety Certified Clinician
Certified Acute Stress Adaptive Protocol (ASAP) Facilitator
Brainspotting Phase 1 and 2

Window of Tolerance - Life Outside Optimal: The "window of tolerance" refers to the range of emotional and physiological arousal within which an individual can effectively manage stress, regulate emotions, and function optimally. We will take a deep-dive into how your placement in that window affects you, your work, and your family both day-to-day and in the aftermath of tragedy.

Tina (LCPC-C) & Jeff Ingemi - how2loveourcops

Tina and Jeff Ingemi have both been first responders and married for over 25 years with two adult children. Jeff is retired law enforcement, and Tina is current EMS and a counselor for first responders. Both are CISM trained and serve in peer support. They are passionate about helping relationships heal and grow because they understand the impact that emergency response can have on couples.

Sex, Stress, and Everything in Between: Tips for First Responder Relationships: Every first responder has training and tools they utilize to perform their job well. First responder relationships also need to have intentional investment in order to be successful, especially when dealing with shift work, high stress calls, and communication struggles. Jeff and Tina share about highs and lows of their first responder relationship and the lessons they have learned along the way. Their priority is to provide information, resources, and hope so that your relationship can be strengthened and even thrive in the world of emergency response.

Jason Mills, LCPC-c, EMT-P

Jason Mills is a retired Augusta firefighter/paramedic turned licensed mental health clinician who brings a unique and deeply informed perspective to the intersection of emergency services, resilience, and wellness. With over two decades of frontline experience, Jason understands the culture, challenges, and cumulative toll of public safety work — and has made it his mission to support those who serve.

As the founder and owner of The Resilient Responder, Jason provides specialized mental health services, wellness education, consulting, and peer support training tailored specifically for first responders. His work emphasizes proactive, holistic, and culturally competent approaches that foster long-term resilience and improved quality of life for individuals and organizations alike.

Known for his relatable style and practical insight, Jason is a passionate advocate for shifting the narrative around mental health in public safety. Through speaking engagements, training sessions, he continues to champion the well-being of the first responder community.

Employee Health, Wellness, and Resiliency - A Fleet Maintenance Approach to Organizational Success: Revolutionize your department’s approach to wellness with this dynamic course that challenges outdated thinking and emphasizes proactive, holistic health solutions. Using an engaging fleet-maintenance analogy, you'll learn the necessity of personalized wellness programs that address resiliency. Discover how comprehensive wellness strategies significantly improve organizational finances, reduce injuries and illnesses, boost recruitment and retention, and strengthen morale. This course provides essential tools and insights to foster a healthier, more productive workforce for years to come.

Internal Hazmat - The Dangerous Effects on Internal Body Chemistry: As first responders, you’re trained to identify, isolate, and mitigate external hazardous materials. But what happens when the real threat is inside the suit? Internal Hazmat takes a deep dive into the body’s own volatile substances—stress hormones, neurotransmitters, and chemical messengers that can become toxic under prolonged pressure.

Using the language and framework of hazmat response, this engaging session explores how chronic exposure to high-stress environments alters internal chemistry—triggering dangerous chain reactions involving cortisol, adrenaline, dopamine, serotonin, and more. Just like incompatible chemicals in a spill, these substances can interact in harmful ways, affecting mood, decision-making, sleep, and long-term physical and mental health.

You’ll learn to recognize the warning signs of an internal hazmat situation, understand the neurochemical “plume” that can build up over time, and walk away with tactical strategies for neutralizing the threat before it leads to burnout, anxiety, or worse.

Shaun Hadlock

Warrior PATHH ( Progressive Alternative Training Helping Heros) is a training program that is based off Post Traumatic Growth. This is a 90 day training program, where 7 days are in person. This program covers 78 hours of in person training, where we will teach you over 30 wellness practices. This program is free of cost, this program is open to all Post 9/11 veterans, active military members and active and retired first responders.

Warrior PATHH: Take a deep dive into the Warrior PATHH program. Through example and description, you will get to understand what attendees could expect to see attending the program and what you might be able to take from the program moving forward.

Sgt. Brad Gallant

Brad has been a law enforcement officer since 2008. He has filled the role of patrolman, Corporal, Sergeant, Field Training Officer, and has been a K9 handler.

After almost 13 years in law enforcement Brad found himself in a position where he did not believe he would finish his career in law enforcement. Brad found himself in a position where he was stressed and depressed, ultimately taken out of work "Unfit for Duty".

Brad came back from his time off and over the next year, forged a new path in law enforcement. Since 2022 he has been actively working on his personal mental health as well as trying to create opportunities for other first responders to better their mental health.

Brad wrote a LEMHWA grant in 2023 for the Rumford Police Department. The award helped the department build a foundation for a wellness program and ultimately led to the planning of this conference.

Wellness Program Development: One small departments journey: Brad will lay the groundwork discussing personal and professional struggles. A brief presentation about what led up to him being found “unfit for duty” in 2021, what that time looked like, and his progress on the road back. This will lead into how important that time on the road back was to help create a meaningful wellness program at the Rumford Police Department. Also, what has grown out of that wellness program, including a non-profit project he has underway.

There will be a comprehensive review of the LEMHWA grant Rumford PD secured to kick off their wellness program in 2023. How the grant was acquired, what was included, and the time it took will be covered. The presentation will include what was originally planned for the grant, what was learned along the way, what changed, and what the program looks like presently. Brad will share how Rumford’s experience was driven by him and his Chief. This will include the decision they made to make some unilateral decisions and not allow the program to suffer from “death by committee”. There will be discussion of some current programs and options out there which may or may not be options for other departments.

Brad is raw and authentic in his presentation about his traumatic experiences, both personal and professional. This presentation will include some discussion on sensitive topics ranging from divorce, PTS, depression, anxiety, betrayal trauma, and suicidality.

Sean Kilbreth

Sean Kilbreth is a 28 year police officer in New Hampshire and a former DEA Task Force Officer wiht Hillsborough County Sheriff Deputy Southern. Sean is currently on the New Hampshire CISM Team Greater Manchester and a Veteran Suicide Prevention Coalition Team Leader. Sean is the New Hampshire Fraternal Order of Police Vice President and Community Engagement Coordinator for Forge VFR Veteran and First Responder Program.

Mental Health in Law Enforcement: You will hear why positive mental health needs to be a priority for police. Sean with share his personal journey from an officer involved shooting, to his undercover work, and PTSD diagnosis.

Kevin Brooks

Experienced Pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry and the Law Enforcement community. Skilled in Theology, Discipleship, Pastoral Counseling, Public Speaking, and Spiritual Direction. Strong community and social services professional with a Master of Divinity (MDiv) focused in Pastoral Studies/Counseling from Capital Bible Seminary. Certified Maine Law Enforcement Chaplain from Maine Criminal Justice Academy. Also a Master Chaplain with the International Conference of Police Chaplains. Instructor at Maine Criminal Justice Academy and for the International Conference of Police Chaplains.

Chaplaincy in First Responder Agencies and Families: Details about presentation

Delaney Ireland, MHRT/C

Delaney Ireland is a mental health educator at NAMI Maine (National Alliance on Mental Illness) and the daughter of a retired Maine State Police Lieutenant. Her experience growing up in a first responder family and her background working within Maine’s mental health and crisis system have made her passionate about addressing and supporting the unique mental health needs of first responders and their families.

Building Happy, Healthy, and Resilient First Responder Families: When you ask someone how they feel about their loved one being a first responder, you get a variety of answers, but “worried” almost always makes the list. First responders and their families face unique stressors, but they also have unique protective factors that serve as a buffer. Developing both proactive and reactive strategies for navigating stress builds confidence and resilience in families, ultimately helping first responders better meet and sustain the demands of an unpredictable career. Reflecting on 28 years of law enforcement service, I will share the strategies that kept our family happy and healthy throughout the more challenging moments of Dad’s career.

Note: This presentation will be centered around law enforcement experiences, however most strategies provided will be applicable to any first responder family.

Sgt. Ryan Close

Sgt. Ryan Close is a 16 year veteran of Maine Law Enforcement. He grew up in Sacramento, CA, and attended Prep School and then College in Maine. In 2008, he was hired by the Westbrook Police Department and graduated the 15 BLETP. He has worked as a Patrol Officer, School Resource Officer, Task Force Officer (TFO) with the United States Marshal Service, Detective and Acting Sergeant. He currently works for the Franklin County Sheriff's Office where he has been since 2021.

Most of Sgt. Close's time was spent in CID where he became a recognized expert in the field of Digital Forensics and Cellular Network Analysis. He has more than 10 years experience working in Peer Support and is very active in the field today.

LE Suicide in Maine: Maine Law Enforcement Suicide data and what we are doing about it. Violence is preventable, and data can be used to transition prevention efforts into actionable strategies. In Maine, officer suicides outnumbered line of duty deaths by 6 to 1 from 2015 to 2021. In addition, the life expectancy of retired officers (police, corrections, game wardens, and marine patrol) is an average of 12-15 years less than individuals in the general population. These data come from a study conducted by the Maine Violent Death Reporting System (ME VDRS) and Franklin County Sheriff’s Office. The results of this study were then taken to the state Criminal Justice Board of Trustees, Maine Sheriffs Association, Maine Chiefs of Police Association, and the Maine State Legislature’s Joint Committee for Criminal Justice and Public Safety and led to new laws to increase mental health resources for first responders, changes to the curriculum of the Maine Criminal Justice Academy, and conversations about how to support retired officers. Panelists from Maine will discuss how their data resulted in tangible changes to policy and practice regarding the mental well-being of active and retired police officers in the state. IACP staff will present how police reporting data at the state level to the National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS) strengthens violence and suicide prevention efforts, including those aimed at supporting police officers.

Sgt. Donald Miller

Donald Miller is a 15+ year law enforcement officer and has experience working in Rumford and Lewiston. Don is a graduate of Alfred College and was inducted into their football hall of fame in 2018. Don has a passion for fitness and recently became a Yoga for First Responder instructor in 2024. Don will be co-presenting with Officer Jason Downey from Hudson, NH.

Yoga for First Responders: Introduction to and summary of Yoga for First Responders.

Lt. Kyle Tilsley (Retired)

Husband, Father, and Retired Maine State Police LT. Retired after 28 years. Kyle has spent 28 years with the Maine State Police, the last 3 as Troop Commander of Troop B in Gray. He has been the primary FTO for multiple Troopers in his career and was the Troop B FTO Supervisor for 8 years. Kyle was a Trooper for 17 years, promoted to Sergeant in 2011 and promoted to Lieutenant in 2019.

Wellness and Resilience for Retirement: After retirement what wellness means to me. We should not forget about our retirees

Chief Elliot Moya and Chief Charles "Chip" Rumsey

Elliott Moya is the Chief of Police in Eliot, Maine, a U.S. Air Force veteran, and the founder of Maine Responder Wellness, an initiative focused on improving the well-being of first responders. With over 20 years of leadership experience, he has championed progressive change in mental health-informed policing, officer wellness, and accreditation.

Elliott is a passionate, grounded leader who believes that nearly every challenge in the profession—from wellness to recruitment to culture—traces back to leadership. He doesn’t just talk about change; he builds it—step by step. Drawing from his own path—marked by moments of imposter syndrome, self-reflection, and eventually, ownership—Elliott leads with emotional intelligence, quiet confidence, and a deep commitment to building environments where people can grow, serve, and thrive.

Outside of work, Elliott enjoys a good cigar, is an avid New York Mets fan, a devoted husband, and a proud girl dad—roles that continue to shape his perspective on balance, empathy, and purpose.

Chief Rumsey is a 30-year veteran of policing, having begun his career in 1995 with the Waterville (Maine) Police Department. During his 21 years in Waterville, he rose to the rank of Deputy Chief, where he served for 9 years before being named Chief of the Cumberland Police Department in 2016. He was appointed by Governor Lepage to the Maine Criminal Justice Academy’s Board of Trustees, currently serving as Board Chair. Chief Rumsey is immediate past President of the Maine Chiefs of Police Association. He chairs the IACP’s Police Professional Standards, Ethics, and Image Committee. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice studies from the University of North Dakota, his Master of Public Administration from the University of Maine and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy’s 242nd Session.

The Wellness Shift: From Managing to Compassionate Leadership: This session shares the personal leadership journey of a small-town police chief who once tried to live up to an image of leadership built on unshakable confidence, relentless productivity, and emotional detachment. But behind the uniform was someone quietly struggling. He learned to release the pressure to perform through intentional wellness work, rest, and reflection. He began leading with authenticity, empathy, and clarity. This shift didn't change his values—it deepened them. Attendees will gain insight into how wellness is not just a personal endeavor but a leadership strategy that builds stronger, more compassionate teams.

Meredith Stack, LCPC & Joanna Stokinger, MS, CA

Meredith is a licensed clinical professional counselor and life-long Mainer who grew up in Brunswick. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Education from the University of Maine at Farmington and a Master's degree in Counseling from the University of Southern Maine. As Program Manager at the Maine Resiliency Center she leads initiatives dedicated to supporting victims/survivors, families, community members, and first responders impacted by the mass shooting that took place in Lewiston on 10/25/2023.

Joanna is a nationally accredited victim advocate with over twenty years of experience in criminal justice. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Florida and a Master's in degree in Criminology from Thomas College. Joanna is currently Lead Advocate at the Maine Resiliency Center. Joanna has spoken at several national conferences about victim advocacy and her role as an advocate and a survivor and also co-leads the Parents Of Murdered Children, Inc.’s Maine Chapter.

Stress First Aid: Stress First Aid (SFA) is a framework to improve recovery from stress reactions, both in oneself and in coworkers. The model aims to support and validate good friendship, mentorship and leadership actions through core actions that help to identify and address early signs of stress reactions in an ongoing way (not just after "critical incidents").

Rich Creamer

Accomplished public safety professional and military veteran with over 20 years of experience in a diverse background of law enforcement operations, investigations, and administration. Known for effective leadership in the management of complex situations, large-scale projects, including the budget management of federal grants, implementation of a comprehensive wellness initiative, and the oversight of a mid size agency’s critical incident stress management program. Serving in a leadership capacity since 2016 with a reputation of effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Demystifying Inpatient Treatment for First Responders: When to Go, Where to Go, and How to Get There : Details about The Farley Center at Williamsburg Place is a Virginia drug and alcohol addiction treatment center located near Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia. Our campus is situated minutes away from the historic district, nestled among the quiet pines near Waller Mill Park. We are a place of healing in our nation’s first capital. We are known as a center of excellence offering quality, affordable addiction treatment. We are a place where people come to get well and where families find hope and a solution that works.

Homefront: Abi Brown (PHMNP), Jill Belleard (LCPC), and Kristi Carr

Jill, Kristi, and Abi are all married to police officers. Although significant others are built to be resilient, they’re also an underserved population with a lack of resources. These three women started a significant other peer group in 2023 that continues to thrive and grow connection throughout the community and provides wellness education for both the spouse and the first responder to cultivate a healthy and thriving relationship. More importantly, are the significant others who have dedicated their time to joining the group which has kept it alive for 2.5 years.

Homefront - Significant other wellness and connection: Why it’s important and how to implement: Join us to talk about significant other’s wellness and connect with others just like you, who “get it.” In addition, we will spend time talking about how we started our significant other peer group in 2023, have kept it alive for 2.5 years, and how you can implement this in your community, too!

Jason Downey

Jason Downey, has been a certified Police Officer in the state of New Hampshire for 24 years. During his career he has performed many roles. The roles he has performed are a member of the patrol division, Services Division (fleet maintenance, recruiting, training, and community programs), Field training Officer, Crime Scene Team, Accident Reconstruction Team, Lead CPR and First Aid Instructor, School Resource Officer, Team Leader of his departments CISM Team, Comfort Dog Handler, YFFR Yoga Instructor, and now the Mental Health and Wellness Officer.

Balancing the Call of Duty: Managing First Responder Stressors, Strengthening Families, and Finding Harmony in the Work Life Balance: First Responders face unique challenges that often ripple into family life. This presentation explores the complexities of maintaining strong relationships within the first responder household. We’ll address effective communication strategies with spouses and children, how to balance the demands of work and home, and practical ways to cope with the added stress of poor leadership at work. The presentation will also provide guidance for families navigating the emotional toll of raising a child with mental health challenges. Through real-life insights and supportive tools, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how to create resilience, connection, and stability in the face of high-stress professions.

Jeremy Spencer & Oskar Matero

Jeremy Spencer is a financial advisor with The Advisory USA, specializing in financial education, family protection, and retirement planning for first responders and working families. With over two decades of service in the military, he brings a mission-driven approach to helping clients build financial resilience. As a speaker, Jeremy translates complex financial concepts into clear, actionable steps. He is honored to be part of the Western Maine Wellness Conference, contributing insights on financial wellness as a key pillar of overall well-being.

Oskar grew up in Bath Maine and is a proud graduate of Morse High School. He went on to earn a degree in Finance from the University of Maine at Orono. Oskar has been a licensed Financial Advisor since 2022 and is passionate about helping clients invest with greater confidence and better outcomes by focusing on fundamental principles and proper risk management.

When he's not working, Oskar enjoys gardening with his wife, golfing with friends, and giving back to the community. He serves on the board of Main Street Bath and volunteers regularly at many of Bath’s local event.

Financial Wellness: Financial Wellness is designed for those who serve—because taking care of your future is just as important as protecting others. This session offers real-world strategies to reduce financial stress, build momentum, and create options for your next mission. We’ll focus on practical, achievable steps that fit the unpredictable schedule and demands of the job. If you're ready to stop just getting by and start getting ahead, this session is for you.

Chief Tim Barfield, Retired

Tim Barfield retired from full-time law enforcement after 42 years in 2023. At the time of his retirement, he was the Chief of Police in Wellington, Ohio. He is a husband, father and grandfather who has a love for first responders and their success. His responsibilities and desires have included training, leadership, mental health for first responders and supervision. He is the former president and current treasurer for the Local Initiative Networking Compassion (LINC), an organization he was foundational in developing to help those struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues. He is a member of the ILEETA and was a contributing writer to Policeone.com and LawOfficer.com. He continues to learn and instruct on subjects with an emphasis on awareness, mental health, police survival mindset, the addicted community, and ethics. Throughout his career, he observed the lack of assistance needed to ensure that he and other first responders were prepared to respond and deal with the demands and aftereffects of the trauma experienced in the demanding fields they participated in. He has worked with many first responders to help them achieve balance and resilience in their lives and continues in that needed endeavor.

RANGE of Resilience: First H.E.L.P.’s RANGEofResilience addresses the need for a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to improving the health and resilience of first responders. The RANGEofResilience easily integrates into any training domains. Its focus on movement, mindfulness, and mental skills can be applied to all First Responder Professions. The program can be adapted to fit the specific needs and challenges of each group, making it a flexible and customizable tool for promoting resilience and well-being. This workshop prepares trainers, educators, supervisors, and others to integrate resilience practices into a wide range of opportunities.

Matt Brown

Matt Brown served as a state and federal law enforcement officer for 26 years, most of that as a U.S.Probation Officer, serving Androscoggin and Oxford counties. He has also been an EMT, and currently works as a peer support specialist at Spurwink in Portland. He has been in recovery for 23 years, and over 8 years ago started an informal recovery group for police/fire/EMS/corrections that meets twice weekly on zoom, reaching from 20-30 responders weekly.

Responders in Recovery Group: How fellowship fosters resilience: This presentation will detail my own recovery journey, followed by the origins of the responders in recovery group, and how it helps foster hope, resilience and recovery.

Billy Dries

Billy is a dedicated police officer with the Eliot, Maine Police Department and a passionate advocate for holistic wellness. With a bachelor's degree in Sports and Fitness Management from the University of New England, Billy combines his background in law enforcement with specialized practices in cold water immersion and breathwork.

Outside of his professional work, Billy enjoys time with his family, boating, and traveling.

Exploring Cold Water Immersion: Through his unique approach, Billy helps individuals cultivate physical and mental resilience—whether they’re first responders, athletes, or anyone seeking better stress management and recovery. His workshops and coaching sessions empower participants to tap into the power of controlled breathing and cold exposure to unlock endurance, focus, and overall well-being.

Bring a pair of swim trunks and an open mind—you might just dive into a life-changing experience.

Dirigo Safety, LLC & Maine Resiliency Center

Sponsoring Partners

Dirigo Safety, LLC

Dirigo Safety, LLC is a law enforcement-owned group of active and retired officers, investigators, attorneys, and drug recognition experts. Subject matter experts teach all classes with significant street experience. We offer on-site training at our Auburn location and host training at various locations throughout Maine, New Hampshire, and New England.

Maine Resiliency Center

The Maine Resiliency Center was established in the wake of the mass casualty event in Lewiston on October 25, 2023. We provide free community connection, support, and resources to those who are impacted by this tragedy.

The Maine Resiliency Center is a resource hub for anyone impacted by the October 25th shootings at Just-in-Time Recreation and Schemengees Bar and Grille. The Maine Resiliency Center serves; Family, friends, and loved ones of individuals killed on October 25th, First responders and medical personnel, Anyone present at either of the shootings, & Any member of the community who feels impacted by these events.

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse