The 2024 First Responder Wellness Conference aims to address the unique stressors faced by first responders and their families. Attendees will engage in workshops and presentations on trauma, wellness, and peer support. The conference offers two tracks: general topics and basic peer support training. Highlights include free massages, EMDR sessions, and a social evening at Smash Park. The event is designed for a wide range of participants, including law enforcement, EMS, fire services, and mental health professionals.
Mental Health Conferences
2024 First Responder Wellness Conference
The 2024 First Responder Wellness Conference will be held in West Des Moines, Iowa, focusing on wellness, trauma, and peer support for first responders.
Conference Overview
Some quick details about this conference.
Time and Place
Maybe the most important details of the conference.
Conference Dates: September 18–20, 2024
Location: Hilton Garden Inn
City/State: West Des Moines, Iowa
Address: 205 S 64th St, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Event Format: in-person

Conference Organizer
This organization is hosting this conference.
Peer Support Foundation
The Peer Support Foundation is dedicated to addressing the stressors faced by first responders and their families, providing support and training.
Email: contact@peersupportfoundation.org
Phone: 515-978-1078
Registration Fees
How much does this conference cost?
Cost | Type | Notes |
---|---|---|
$175.00 | Regular Ticket | Standard registration for the conference. |
$50.00 | Retiree Ticket | Discounted registration for retirees. |
$25.00 | Significant Other | Thursday only access for significant others. |
See the conference's actual website for more details around these fees, as sometimes they can be more complicated.
Schedule and Agenda
It's important to know what is planned.
The conference includes two tracks with sessions on wellness, peer support, and financial planning. Keynote sessions and workshops are scheduled throughout the three days, with specific sessions for significant others on Thursday.
Notable Speakers
These folks will be speaking at the conference.
Officer Jason Schechterle
A former Phoenix Police Officer who survived a tragic accident, Jason shares his story of resilience and overcoming adversity.
Ret. Officer Jessica Flores
A retired police officer turned Mindset Mentor, Jessica supports officers transitioning from law enforcement.
Sheila Russell, LISW CADC
An EMDR Certified Mental Health Therapist specializing in first responder mental health.
Dave and Christy Dyke
Keynote speakers sharing their experiences with PTSD and mental health challenges in law enforcement.
Jeremy Sprague, PSF President
A police Lieutenant and founder of the Peer Support Foundation, Jeremy specializes in peer support training.
Dr. Paul Ascheman, Ph.D.
A psychologist specializing in first responder wellness, presenting on proactive health strategies.
Scott Adams, AWMA
A financial advisor discussing retirement planning for first responders.
Dan Jarvis
A veteran and founder of nonprofits focusing on PTSD and emotional healing.
Breanna Mink
A mental health social worker and first responder spouse, focusing on family dynamics and resilience.
Sheriff John Halferty
Jasper County Sheriff discussing leadership and mental health in public safety.
John Coulter
A retired Sheriff/Police Chief discussing Critical Incident Stress Management.
Jennifer Colby
A Public Safety 911 Manager discussing moral injury in first responders.
Hotel Information
You need somewhere to stay! (Unless you live relatively close.)
Special room rates of $119/night are available at the Hilton Garden Inn. Rooms are limited, and reservations can be made through the provided link.
Sponsorship, Exhibitor, and Advertising Opportunities
If you're an organization that wants to contribute to this event, here are some details.
Organizations can sponsor the event, with details available in the sponsorship form linked on the conference page.
Other Links and Information
The above information is from the conference or event webpage. Please review the organization's website for official information, as that will be more up-to-date.
Reminder: This is an overview of this conference, and you should consult the official website for details on registration, fees, deadlines, and other details. Quill Therapy Solutions is maintaining this information to make it more accessible to the therapist and mental health professional community.
If you noticed an issue with the above information, please send us an email: conferences@quilltherapynotes.com (Ideally, include a link to the conference and the details that need to be corrected. Thank you!)
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