Debriefing First Responders

When the call ends, the impact begins. Are you prepared to lead the conversation that could change a responder's life?

Debriefing First Responders is the definitive handbook for anyone tasked with guiding peers through the aftermath of critical incidents. Designed for police officers, firefighters, paramedics, dispatchers, and peer support teams, this practical guide offers step-by-step strategies for running effective debriefs that support healing, build trust, and reduce long-term trauma.

Whether you're a frontline supervisor, peer support leader, training officer, or mental health partner, this book gives you the tools to:

¿ Recognize when a debrief is needed

¿ Facilitate structured, trauma-informed group debriefs

¿ Ask powerful questions that open conversation and reduce emotional isolation

¿ Manage difficult emotions and group dynamics

¿ Use templates, checklists, and field-tested scripts

¿ Integrate peer support and wellness resources into every debrief

Real-world scenarios, facilitator walkthroughs, and printable resources make this handbook more than theory-it's a mission-ready field manual for those who carry the burden after the call.

Debriefing isn't therapy. It's leadership. It's culture. And it saves lives.

If you lead, mentor, or care about first responders-this book belongs in your hands, your locker, or your station.