“Testimony After Trauma – Preparing Public Safety Personnel Before, During, and After the Courts” is an essential and groundbreaking resource that delves deeply into the unique challenges faced by Public Safety Personnel (PSP) navigating the court system after exposure to workplace trauma. Authored by a team of experienced professionals, including Dr. Barbara Anschuetz, Amanda Griffith-Conway, Brad McKay, Laura Kloosterman, Neil Orr, Pete Grande, and Sylvio Gravel, this book combines lived experiences with evidence-based strategies to offer meaningful support to those in the justice system.

The book’s premise is clear and powerful: the act of testifying can profoundly impact the mental health and well-being of PSP. Recognizing the complex interplay between trauma and the judicial process, the authors provide a comprehensive roadmap for supporting individuals as they prepare for, endure, and recover from court appearances. This guide addresses not only the PSP themselves, it also includes their families, mental health professionals, peer support workers, and organizational leaders who play critical roles in fostering recovery and resilience.

What sets this work apart is its emphasis on people-centered care and its trauma-informed approach. Each chapter demonstrates an acute awareness of the pressures PSP face, from re-living traumatic events during testimony to navigating the stigma surrounding mental health. The authors’ collective wisdom, drawn from decades of experience in law enforcement, mental health, and peer support, underscores the importance of creating a supportive infrastructure within organizations.

Key highlights include:

• Identifying Risk Factors
• Strategies for Support
• Trauma-Informed Practices
• Family and Peer Support

The inclusion of real-life examples, such as peer support during line-of-duty deaths and organizational lessons learned, adds authenticity and relatability. The authors do not shy away from difficult topics, such as moral injury, stigma, and institutional barriers, instead addressing them head-on with sensitivity and insight.

This book also serves as a call to action for organizations to implement sustainable wellness programs and prioritize mental health. It highlights the critical need for ongoing education, collaboration, and advocacy to ensure PSP are supported long after the courtroom lights dim.

Whether you are a PSP, a mental health professional, or a leader within a PSP organization, Testimony After Trauma is an essential read, seamlessly connecting operational preparedness with emotional resilience. It provides a comprehensive guide for navigating the intricate and frequently underexplored challenges of trauma and testimony.