FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who is eligible to participate in Mindful First Responders training?
The program is designed for Oklahoma first responders, including law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, and other emergency-service professionals. Trainings include group and individual participation opportunities.
What topics are covered during the training?
Training combines practical stress-management exercises, guided group discussions, mindful movement and stretching, emotional-regulation techniques, trauma-informed care, and strategies for responding to overdose and substance-use situations. During the sessions, these main 6 topics are covered: (1) Capacity Under Load, (2) Substance Use Without Shame, (3) Sleep, Shift Work, & Recovery, (4) Compassion Fatigue & Exposure Stacking, (5) Regulation In Real Time, and (6) Responding To A Colleague.
How long is the training?
A complete training for groups/organizations is 4 hours (2 hours per session). We also have 2 retreat opportunities for individuals to attend (training is 2 hours per retreat). Retreat dates will be January 2027 (virtual) and May 2027 (hybrid - in person location at Forest of Peace in Sand Springs). The appropriate format can be discussed when your organization submits its request.
How many people may participate?
Each program generally accommodates 7+ participants. Organizations needing training for large departments can schedule multiple groups to meet at different days/times.
Can the training be delivered at our facility?
Yes, training can be provided in person at your organization’s facility.
Do participants receive continuing education credit?
Participants that attend a departmental training will receive 4 CLEET continuing-education hours or 4 certified EMT continuing-education units. Participants must attend the complete program to qualify. Individuals attending our Recover and Reset Retreats will receive 2 CLEET continuing-education hours or 2 certified EMT continuing-education units.
Is the program appropriate for participants who have no experience with mindfulness?
Yes! No previous experience in mindfulness is required. The program introduces practical, accessible techniques specifically adapted to first responders and operational environments.
Will participants be required to discuss personal or traumatic experiences?
The program includes guided group discussions, but its primary purpose is skill-building and education. Organizations may wish to discuss participation expectations, privacy practices, and the structure of group activities with program staff before scheduling.
How does the program evaluate its effectiveness?
Participants complete pre- and post-program assessments to help measure outcomes and evaluate changes associated with the training.
How can our organization request a training?
Organizations may submit a Program Inquiry with a contact name, title, location, email address, desired start date, and scheduling availability.
Does the training cost anything?
No, the training is free to all who attend.
What if an emergency comes up, requiring a participant that's enrolled in a departmental training to miss a session? How do they make up their CLEET hours?
Participants are welcome to attend either of our Recover and Reset Retreats to make up for missing a program session.