PSPNET is a clinical research unit located at the University of Regina in partnership with the Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment (CIPSRT) that delivers and conducts research on various aspects of Internet-delivered Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (ICBT) for Public Safety Personnel (PSP), including first responders.
Led by Dr. Heather Hadjistavropoulos, one of Canada’s leaders in ICBT, her team of expert researchers and clinicians at the University of Regina will oversee the innovative PSPNET programming to help address mental health challenges facing PSP and their families.
PSPNET offers confidential treatment and education services at no cost to current and former first responders and other PSP, including border services personnel, correctional workers, firefighters (career and volunteer), operational and intelligence personnel, paramedics, police (municipal, provincial, federal), public safety communicators (e.g., dispatchers, 911 operators), and search and rescue personnel. The tailored services can be easily accessed online or by phone anytime from wherever PSP feel comfortable and secure, with their privacy protected.
Participants can enroll in one of two courses currently offered. The first is the PSP Wellbeing Course, which is appropriate for clients who have diverse mental health concerns. The second is the PSP PTSD Course, which is specifically tailored for clients who are concerned with symptoms related to post-traumatic stress disorder. Both programs are offered in English and French, and both are designed to meet the specific needs of PSP. The courses combine online learning modules supplemented with therapist support from trained PSPNET clinicians, one to two times per week, through secure e-mails or phone calls for eight to 16 weeks, depending on need. Participants will have access to the course materials for up to a year from when they enroll.
PSPNET is available in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Québec, or Saskatchewan. For more information please visit https://www.pspnet.ca/
