UCF RESTORES-Trauma Therapy Program

10/13/2026

Firefighter mental health requires more than individual resilience. It requires systems that support firefighters throughout their careers.

In an episode of Perspectives on Leadership from Fire Engineering, Deputy Chief Stephen Shaw speaks with UCF RESTORES Deputy Executive Director Kellie O’Dare, Ph.D., about su***de prevention, firefighter behavioral health, and the role fire departments play in building a culture of support.

Drawing on nearly 30 years of data, Dr. O’Dare discusses research into firefighter su***de risk and the development of the Zero Su***de Framework, a seven-part approach to embedding mental health support into organizational practices, including the transition to retirement.

The conversation explores practical ways departments can reduce stigma, strengthen communication, and ensure firefighters know where to turn for support before reaching a crisis point.

Listen to the episode to learn how fire departments can build a system that prioritizes mental health.

10/08/2026

Stories about sexual assault can affect survivors in deeply personal ways. For some, media coverage may bring difficult memories or emotions to the surface; for others, it may offer language to better understand an experience they have struggled to name.

UCF RESTORES’ Amie Newins, Ph.D., Director of Clinical Operations and the Center for Research and Education in Sexual Trauma, spoke with the Today Show about how increased attention to sexual assault can affect survivors and what may lead some to seek support following high-profile cases.

Her perspective is a reminder that there is no “right” way to respond to trauma. Every survivor’s experience is their own, and compassionate support and access to resources can make a meaningful difference.

Read the full article:

For sexual assault survivors, the Cornell case can feel both infuriating and empowering.

10/07/2026

It’s incredibly important to be aware of the differences between sadness and depression. Depression isn't just "feeling sad," it's a real, treatable medical condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or how strong someone appears on the outside.

For veterans, first responders, and trauma survivors, depression often shows up alongside other struggles: PTSD, grief, chronic stress, and the weight of experiences most people never have to face. Left unaddressed, it can quietly erode someone's ability to function, connect, and feel like themselves.

Particularly during National Depression Education and Awareness Month, and at a time where seasonal depression tends to trend upward, we’d like to spotlight the warning signs and reiterate that resources are available to anyone who may be quietly struggling.

To help, check out this video on understanding and coping with depression:

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10/06/2026

UCF RESTORES joined the University of Central Florida in thanking State Representative David Smith and State Senator Tom Wright for their long-standing dedication to advancing trauma treatment, research, and resilience across our state. Although Representative Smith was not able to be there for the ceremony, the support of both of these legislators over the past six years has yielded incredible support for the state's veterans and first responders, allowing more than 2300 residents to receive high quality, evidence-based care at no cost. That impact would not have happened without the support of these two legislative champions.

10/02/2026

Making mental health support more accessible is central to UCF RESTORES’ mission.

Part of that means creating resources that meet first responders where they are and providing support that is free, confidential, and designed around the unique demands of the job.

UCF RESTORES’ Rescue Apps connect first responders with peer support and licensed mental health professionals through three specialized platforms:
🟥 Redline Rescue for Firefighters
🟦 Blueline Rescue for Law Enforcement
🟨 Goldline Rescue for Dispatchers

No judgment. No cost. Just support when it’s needed.

Explore all the Rescue Apps here:

The Redline Rescue, Blueline Rescue, and Goldline Rescue sites grew out of one firefighter’s commitment to resiliency and recovery through connectivity to the entire first responder community. The sites are a community of first responders and professionals committed to serving those who serve self...

09/29/2026

Florida’s Zero Su***de Framework for the Fire Service provides a statewide approach to understanding and reducing su***de risk across the fire service. Now, UCF RESTORES is helping departments take the next step: putting the framework into practice.

In September, we released a new video to help departments begin conversations about the framework, launched a dedicated resource library at RedlineRescue.org with a resource map and framework overview, and partnered with CRACKYL Magazine to explore what implementation can look like in the fire service.

The new CRACKYL feature examines how the framework can make su***de prevention part of everyday fire service operations – from leadership and training to measurement and accountability.

Together, the UCF RESTORES fire service su***de analysis and the Zero Su***de Florida Fire Service Framework provide the data to better understand risk and a statewide plan to address it.

Read the full CRACKYL feature here:
https://www.crackyl.com/article/florida-s-fire-service-is-treating-su***de-prevention-like-infrastructure

Florida’s new statewide Zero Su***de Framework aims to make firefighter su***de prevention a core part of fire service operations through leadership, training,

09/28/2026

Being part of a first responder family comes with pride, purpose, and strength. But it also comes with long hours, missed holidays, and an emotional toll that the whole household carries.

UCF RESTORES’ First Responder Resource Library was created to help families navigate some of those challenges with practical, accessible resources. From stress management and self-care tools to communication strategies, family resources and guidance for children and teens, these resources are designed to help first responder families stay connected.

It’s not just about what happens in a moment of crisis, it’s also about creating a culture where asking for help is encouraged, support is accessible, and no one feels they have to carry the weight alone.

Being part of a first responder family is something truly special. The experience can be filled with pride, purpose, and strength. When a member of your family chooses to serve the community, your whole family takes on the duty. Whether it’s celebrating promotions and milestones, showing up proudl...

09/22/2026

Virtual reality can be more than an immersive experience, it can be a powerful tool for trauma treatment.

At UCF RESTORES, virtual reality is incorporated to help individuals safely and gradually confront trauma-related memories, situations, and environments in a controlled therapeutic setting.

Through VR therapy, clinicians can create immersive scenarios that support exposure work while tailoring treatment to each individual’s needs. The goal is not to relive trauma, but to help patients process what happened, reduce the power of trauma-related symptoms, and regain a sense of safety and control.

By combining innovative technology with culturally informed care, UCF RESTORES continues to explore new ways to make effective trauma treatment more accessible and impactful.

Learn more about types of treatment available at https://ucfrestores.com/treatment/.

09/18/2026

This story from Spectrum News 13 highlights the impact of Orange County Fire Rescue’s peer support program, including the important work of Lt. Claudia Fernandez, OCFR’s behavioral health coordinator.

It’s a meaningful reminder of what peer support can provide: a trusted person to talk to, a connection to resources, and the reassurance that no one has to face difficult moments alone.

We’re thrilled to see Lt. Fernandez and the OCFR peer support team receive this well-deserved recognition. Thank you for the important work you do to support the behavioral health and well-being of those who serve our communities.

Read the full story:

Orange County Fire Rescue said its hotline received 245 calls for peer support in 2025.