Penn Medicine Princeton House Behavioral Health dedicated the First Responder Tribute Garden at its inpatient campus on Herrontown Road on September 12.
The Tribute Garden recognizes New Jersey’s first responders who risk their own mental and physical health to protect us all. One hundred regional and local first responders were in attendance including law enforcement officers, fire fighters, emergency medical personnel.
The site, which is a landscaped area with seating, includes flags representing each first responder branch flanking the United States and New Jersey flags. Princeton House was the first agency in the state to have a treatment program dedicated to the special mental health and substance abuse needs of first responders.
“As we dedicate this sacred space, I am reminded that yesterday — September 11th — marked the 23rd anniversary of the coordinated terrorist attacks against our country,” remarked James Demetriades, CEO, Penn Medicine Princeton Health. “Those tragic events live in our collective memory as a moment in time when our first responders demonstrated unwavering bravery, and a willingness to sacrifice their lives to save others. We are forever grateful, and we will never forget that day. So, today, as we dedicate this space where flags will fly in honor of those who serve, let us be unified in our support of those who defend and protect us.”
“Princeton House First Responder Treatment Services was founded in 2013 to help address an increase in law enforcement suicides in our state,” said Michael Bizzarro, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Director, First Responder Treatment Services. “The program, which has helped more than 2,000 first responders, continues to work with law enforcement officers, and has expanded to include services for firefighters, corrections officers, active and retired military, EMS, nurses, dispatchers, and their family members.
Certified Peer Support Specialists, themselves former first responders, work with psychiatrists, nurses, allied clinical therapists, and licensed clinical social workers to enhance Princeton House’s inpatient treatment program for this population.
“It is a remarkable service staffed by professionals who go to extraordinary lengths to offer doctor-to-peer counseling. An example of heroes caring for heroes,” said Bizzarro.
Ken Burkert, Certified Peer Support Specialist and First Responder Outreach Coordinator talked about being “ok not to be ok” and mental wellness for first responders.
Irvington Police Sergeant, Retired, Kenneth Hogan shared the story of his trauma and recovery from being shot in the head, spine, shoulder, and hand in the line of duty. Hogan’s message: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help.”
The event was also a forum to introduce Darrell, Princeton House’s Facility Therapy Dog. Darrell was provided and trained by Warrior Canine Connection and attends group therapy meetings, provides emotional support for First Responder patients, and spends time one on one with inpatients at Princeton House Behavioral Health.
