The NAMI Finger Lakes Overwatch Peer Support (OPS) program provides no-cost, confidential, community-based peer support to first responders across the Finger Lakes region. Inspired by the award-winning NAMI North Texas OPS initiative, our program supports anyone in the first responder network responding to crises, from volunteers to full-time professionals, including dispatch, corrections, law enforcement, fire, EMS, EMT, parole, probation, clinical support staff, and others essential to crisis response. We operate as a supplemental resource, complementing any existing peer support programs within individual departments.
Our OPS network serves as a safe, independent space where first responders can seek support without the concerns that may accompany internal agency programs. Free from affiliations with any single agency or government department, NAMI Finger Lakes, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), provides a supportive community dedicated to maintaining confidentiality and offering a broader, community-based approach to mental health care.
Many of our OPS Leaders are certified through the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICSF) in Assisting Individuals in Crisis and Group Crisis Intervention, and our advisory team includes experienced leaders from diverse crisis-response backgrounds. Together, they bring a wealth of expertise to help first responders access compassionate, culturally aware support.
Since October 2024, when we held our first OPS training with the NAMI North Texas team, our 16-hour peer support certification course has prepared first responders to support one another effectively and to connect peers with professional mental health resources when necessary. The program empowers first responders to build resilience, prioritize mental wellness, and seek help confidently—independent of their own department’s resources, yet fully aligned with their unique needs as first responders.
The NAMI Finger Lakes OPS program stands ready to serve the entire first responder community, reinforcing and enhancing intra-agency peer support efforts while maintaining an independent, trusted network dedicated to improving mental health care for those on the front lines.
Are you a first responder seeking Peer Support?
At Overwatch Peer Support (OPS), we understand the unique pressures faced by first responders, and we’re committed to providing a safe, confidential space where you can find support from those who truly understand. Our trained OPS peers are first responders themselves, dedicated to helping you navigate challenges, manage stress, and ensure you never have to struggle alone. Whether you’re a dispatcher, firefighter, EMS, law enforcement officer, corrections officer, or part of a crisis-response team in any role, OPS is here to serve you with compassion and understanding.
Every connection you make with OPS is confidential, independent of your agency, and rooted in our commitment to your well-being. Click the button to complete our request form and let us connect you with the support you need. You’re not alone—OPS is here for you. Information you provide will be reviewed only by the program manager and your confidentiality will be protected.
Overwatch Training and Support
Overwatch Peer Support Basic
Certification
OPS Basics Training is a foundational, no-cost, 16-hour certification course designed to equip first responders with essential skills in peer support. This training prepares participants to provide confidential, compassionate support to their peers, recognize signs of crisis, and connect colleagues to additional resources when needed. Led by experienced instructors, OPS Basics is open to all first responder disciplines—including law enforcement, fire, EMS, dispatch, corrections, probation, and civilian agency staff—creating a robust support network across the Finger Lakes community. This program is a great way for departments to launch peer support within their own agency.
Completion of this course provides OPS certification; however, it does not guarantee membership as an Overwatch Peer Support Peer. For more information on joining as a certified peer, please see the application process for becoming a peer supporter in the OPS program.
Overwatch Basic Trainings will be announced a minimum of 8 weeks in advance of the course. Registration is required.
Overwatch Peer Support Advanced
Training
OPS Advanced Training offers a series of skill-building sessions designed to deepen the knowledge and capabilities of certified OPS peers. These sessions cover a variety of topics relevant to first responder peer support, with opportunities to learn from expert guest speakers and develop specialized techniques to better support colleagues. Building on the foundational skills acquired in OPS Basics, Advanced Training provides ongoing education and practical tools to address the evolving challenges faced by first responders. This program is ideal for those committed to further strengthening their peer support skills and fostering resilience within their teams.
Programs will be announced and sent out 4-6 weeks prior to the event date.
Overwatch Family Support
NAMI Overwatch Family Support is a free, 90-minute monthly support group. Overwatch Family Support are no-cost, confidential, community-based groups led BY family members of first responders FOR family members of first responders. This includes fire, EMS, law enforcement, dispatchers, corrections officers, probation officers, and civilian employees of First Responder agencies. Gain insight from the challenges and successes of others facing similar experiences.
COMING END OF 2025
Join the Overwatch Peer Support Volunteer Team
Are you passionate about supporting first responders in their mental health and well-being? Becoming an Overwatch Peer Support (OPS) volunteer with NAMI Finger Lakes offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community. OPS volunteers serve in vital roles that provide confidential, compassionate, and community-based peer support to first responders across the Finger Lakes region.
Volunteer Roles
OPS Peer Leader
OPS Peer Leaders are certified first responders trained to provide one-on-one peer support. They serve as a trusted resource, helping their peers navigate challenges, manage stress, and connect with professional mental health services when needed. Peer Leaders complete the OPS Basics Training, demonstrate empathy and strong communication skills, and uphold the confidentiality and values of the OPS program.OPS Trainer
OPS Trainers lead our foundational OPS Basics Training sessions, equipping new volunteers with the knowledge and skills needed to serve as Peer Leaders. Trainers are experienced, certified first responders who are passionate about educating and empowering others. They work closely with NAMI Finger Lakes to deliver high-quality, interactive training that prepares first responders for peer support roles.OPS Family Support Group Facilitator
Facilitators lead our Overwatch Family Support groups, providing a safe, supportive environment for family members of first responders to connect, share experiences, and find encouragement. These groups are led by family members of first responders, creating a space where participants can gain insight and understanding from those who truly relate to their experiences. Facilitators must complete NAMI Family Support Group Facilitator Training and meet all OPS program requirements.
The Process
Becoming an OPS volunteer is a rewarding journey that begins with a clear and supportive application process. Here’s what to expect:
Application Submission
Complete the online application form, including contact information for two professional and one personal letter of recommendation.
Training Requirements
All volunteers must complete the required training for their chosen role. OPS Peer Leaders start with the 16-hour OPS Basics Training, while Facilitators must complete NAMI Family Support Group Facilitator Training.
Interview & Selection
Applicants will participate in an interview with the OPS Leaders Committee and the Program Manager. This step ensures alignment with the mission and values of NAMI Finger Lakes and the OPS program.
Program Participation
Once selected, volunteers will join our team and begin making an impact by supporting their peers and building resilience within the first responder community.
Why Volunteer with OPS?
By becoming an OPS volunteer, you join a community of compassionate, dedicated individuals committed to improving the lives of first responders and their families. You’ll gain valuable skills, foster meaningful connections, and make a lasting difference in your community—all while being supported by the trusted name and resources of NAMI Finger Lakes.
Ready to take the next step? Apply today and become part of a program that’s transforming lives in the Finger Lakes region.
Our Overwatch Peer Support Leaders
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Breaking the Silence: A First Responder Q&A on Brain Health and Trauma
Brain health challenges are faced by all first responders—from dispatchers to law enforcement, EMS, fire, ER clinicians, parole, and probation officers, along with their loved ones. Licensed therapist Alev Ates-Barlas and USMC combat veteran and 16-year law enforcement officer Sergeant Blair MacDonald will provide answers on recognizing early warning signs, breaking the stigma, and exploring effective treatments like EMDR. This session is for anyone on the front lines, the first on the scene supporting those in crisis. You’ll also hear about the launch of Overwatch Peer Support, a resource designed to support first responders.
Learn how cumulative stress and PTSD impact both professional and personal lives, and gain practical advice on managing mental health. You don’t have to fight alone—get answers from experts who understand.
Learning Objectives:
-Identify early warning signs of mental health challenges in first responders.
-Explore trauma-informed therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, for faster recovery.
-Understand the importance of culturally competent care for first responders and their families.
-Learn practical strategies for breaking stigma and normalizing seeking mental health support within the first responder community.
-Discover the upcoming Overwatch Peer Support program and the services it will provide to support those on the front lines.
Alev Ates-Barlas is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Certified Trauma Specialist. She is an EMDRIA approved EMDR practitioner, consultant and trainer while also an active member of an emergency response team for the states of NY and TN as she has offices in both states. She has been working with individuals, couples and families in various therapeutic settings.
Her clinical focus is on attachment ruptures, relational issues and trauma spectrum disorders; relational trauma, complex/developmental trauma, single incident trauma, chronic stress disorder as well as PTSD. Additionally, her experience so far has trained her in the treatment of depression, anxiety, family life issues, couples counseling and postpartum issues.
Blair MacDonald is a USMC combat veteran and Police Sergeant with the Cornell University Police Department, where he has served for 16 years.
Currently pursuing his MS in Mental Health Counseling, Blair is focusing on trauma recovery for first responders and veterans. With his extensive experience in law enforcement and combat, Blair brings a deep understanding of the unique mental health challenges faced by first responders.
He is also a member of the Overwatch Peer Support initiative, dedicated to breaking the stigma around mental health in the first responder community.