Who We Are

Standing Stronger Together encapsulates a collective voyage toward healing tailored specifically for First Responders and Veterans. SST was founded by a group of retired First Responders and Veterans who had silently endured the effects of traumatic stress for far too long. With the clinical partnership of Gina Essex, MA LPC, our commitment extends beyond mere ‘symptom management’ and ‘coping skills’ —we aim to cultivate lasting recovery and continued development.

At the heart of our Organization lies a tapestry of diversity woven together by a shared passion for education and healing. Each member of our leadership brings a unique perspective and expertise to our cause. Together, we are driven by compassion, fueled by dedication, inspired by hope and strive to make a meaningful impact for those who seek real change, growth, and healing.

OUR PROGRAMS

  • Level 1: Peer Development Training This comprehensive training provides a general overview and ‘basic training’ for individuals and Peer Support Personnel, giving the participant the most relevant, clinically informed methods, tools and experiential resources for addressing the complex effects of traumatic stress. Through authentic connection with Gina Essex, MA LPC and SST’s Lead Peer team, participants learn and develop effective methods and strategies to identify, prevent and navigate symptoms for themselves and others.

    This training also provides a road map for increased sustainability and resiliency for the individuals who are currently working on the front-lines for Police, Fire and Emergency Medical Departments in West Michigan.

    Level 2: Peer Cultural Development Training: This ‘next level’ training stands on the shoulders of the Level 1 Peer Development Training by offering individuals and Peer Support Personnel a platform to become a leader and agent of change. This training equips participants with the necessary tools, methods and experience to obtain a greater intellectual and embodied understanding needed for true cultural change within a Department, Institution or Family system. In this next-level, clinically informed training created and led by Gina Essex, MA LPC participants will not only ‘know’ and 'understand’ more about the complexities and unique needs of themselves and others who suffer, they will experience change internally and become more able to demonstrate and ‘be’ the change needed for shattering the stigma.

    This training teaches participants how to be the change through clinical teaching, experiential learning and authentic relationships. Being the change makes systemic change a real possibility. All individuals of the SST Lead Peer Team will take this training as a requirement, to lead by example, with the hope of shattering the stigma through deeper and more meaningful connections with themselves and others.

  • Building a vast network of support requires engagement and outreach. SST organizes events, workshops, and outreach programs. These initiatives provide opportunities for raising awareness, education, dialogue, and connection with the aim of building a culture of understanding and acceptance among First Responders, Veterans, and their families.

Our Core Values

Authenticity

Here, you’re encouraged to come as you are. The genuine, unvarnished truth of our experiences form the strongest bonds and support the deepest healing.

Confidentiality

Privacy is paramount to your healing and we hold confidentiality in the highest regard.

Credibility

Our approaches are rooted in solid, grounded, effective strategies that are developed by clinical expertise and led by peers who are walking the path of healing themselves.

Hope

In our community we carry the torch together, lighting the path for one another, especially in the darkest times.

Integrity

Our intention is to offer effective support for every individual that seeks assistance because First Responders, Veterans and their families deserve and need it most.

Trust

Trust is the foundation upon which we build our community. Trust in each other, trust in the process, and trust that together, we're creating something extraordinary.