The Tactical Debrief with Dr. Massimino
The Tactical Debrief podcast
(Formerly The Staff Assistant Podcast) is designed to assist and educate public safety personnel about mental health issues and managing work-related stress. Dr. Massimino is a licensed clinical psychologist who works within a large law enforcement agency and treats first responders in her private practice.
Each episode is designed to mimic an intake session - giving you an inside look into what meeting with a therapist would look like - through the eyes of other first responders. The goal of The Tactical Debrief podcast is to normalize therapy for law enforcement and first responders, and to reduce the suicide rate for this population.
The Tactical Debrief with Dr. Massimino
Episode 37: Dr. Death
In this episode, we interview “Brian,” a police officer from Pennsylvania. Straight out of the academy, he responded to an usual number of fatal accidents and suicides, earning him the nickname “Dr. Death.” He discusses the impact of these critical incidents, ultimately leading to debilitating anxiety and his own suicidal thoughts.
After Brian’s brother passed away in November 2021 from Lou Gherig’s Disease (also known as "ALS"), he found himself unable to meaningfully respond to calls for service. He made the decision to seek therapy in July of 2022, and shares what his experience has been like thus far.