EP.10 You’re Not Alone | A Closer look at PCIS

Описание: In this episode of *Code Forty4*, Amy Cortez sits down with *Steve Click*, a retired Ohio State Highway Patrol officer and a current leader in First Responder Mental Health and Wellness with the Ohio Department of Public Safety.

Steve brings a rare perspective  blending decades of lived experience in uniform with his work supporting law enforcement officers, dispatchers, and their families across the country.



A major focus of this conversation is Post-Critical Incident Seminars (PCIS) — a resource Steve has helped bring to officers and families across multiple states.

PCIS is not just for officers who have experienced one major incident. These seminars are designed to help first responders and their support systems understand cumulative trauma — the “ducks” that pile up quietly over time.

In this episode, Steve explains:

Why PCIS is *preventive*, not just a last resort
Why spouses and family members are encouraged to attend alongside their officer
How sitting in a room with others who “get it” breaks isolation and stigma
Why many families leave PCIS with language and understanding they never had before
How these seminars often become a turning point for marriages, families, and careers



PCIS programs currently exist in multiple states*, and many are offered *at no cost to first responders and their families. Amy shares below the states and agencies with currently PCIS resources so listeners can explore what may be available in their area.

Seeking out resources like PCIS is not a betrayal of your loved one — it’s an act of protection.



PCIS Resources by State:



Arkansas (ARLEAP)
California (CALLEAP)
Florida (FDLE)
Georgia (OPSS)
Kentucky (KYPCIS)
Louisiana (LA-PCIS)
Missouri (MSHP)
New York (NYLEAP)
North Carolina (NCLEAP)
Ohio (Ohio Assist)
Oklahoma (Warrior's Rest Foundation)
South Carolina (SCLEAP)
Texas (LEMIT)
Virginia (VALEAP)
Wyoming (WY HP) 




Connect with Guest: Steve Click

Email: mailto:[email protected]



Web Site:

 https://publicsafety.ohio.gov/what-we...



00:00 Introduction to First Responder Mental Wellness

02:10 The Accumulation of Trauma in First Responders

04:40 Cultural Shifts in Mental Health Awareness

06:33 The Importance of Communication in Relationships

07:48 Normalizing Conversations About Mental Health

11:35 Training and Resources for Mental Health

13:29 Addressing Stigma in the First Responder Community

16:06 Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health

17:43 The Reluctance to Seek Help

20:19 Ohio Assist and Support Programs

25:54 The Importance of Shared Experiences

31:56 Building Understanding in Relationships

35:11 Support for All Stages of Life

36:20 Building a Foundation for Relationships

38:04 Identifying Bad Days vs. Accumulating Trauma

41:10 The Meaning Behind 'I'm Fine'

42:25 Understanding Each Other's Struggles

43:08 Finding Local Support Resources

44:08 Key Takeaways for Families and Spouses