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Not sure where to begin? Connect with a peer!

Peer support from fellow coworkers offers a safe, understanding space for those struggling with mental health. By sharing experiences and offering mutual encouragement, coworkers provide valuable empathy, reduce feelings of isolation, and foster a sense of community. This supportive network helps individuals cope, build resilience, and prioritize their mental well-being.

  • If you are looking for Fire Peer Support, click here.
  • Visit this page to learn more about meQ and Lucet, well-being programs offered by Florida Blue.

Resources on this page are available for all full & part time employees, their family and eligible retirees. If you have any questions or need assistance, email nina.taxis@copbfl.com.

Peer Support

Who is more equipped to help than a fellow coworker, they are someone you already know, trust and have easy access to! Someone who has “walked the walk” is better able to understand an issue, because they can relate.

    Hermine Lanauze

    Hermine Lanauze

    Together we rise: leaning on each other for strength and understanding.

    Email Hermine
    JoAnn M. Zeno

    JoAnn M. Zeno

    I have a passion for helping people and holds a degree in Psychology from Wright State University.

    Email JoAnn
    Kimberly Vazquez

    Kimberly Vazquez

    I understand the challenges of raising a child with ADHD, and is ready to lend a listening ear.

    Email Kimberly
    Kaitlyn Kerr

    Kaitlyn Kerr

    I help others by providing a safe, judgment-free space for individuals to share, connect, and grow.

    Email Kaitlyn
    Maciel Perez

    Maciel Perez

    Sometimes the most healing thing we can do for another is to simply listen.

    Email Maciel
    Michael Rada

    Michael Rada

    I am dedicated to Wellness and Balance through Hot Yoga Practice & Spiritual Guidance.

    Email Michael
    Michelle Owens

    Michelle Owens

    I believe "This Too Shall Pass" after the tragic loss of her son who battled with mental health.

    Email Michelle
    Victoria Johnson

    Victoria Johnson

    I’m ready to build real connections and support others —it’s not about having all the answers, but being there for each other.

    Email Victoria

    Fire Peer Support

    The Fire Peer Support Team is committed to bridging the gap between you and a qualified licensed mental health specialist.

    Therapy peer support for first responders offers a safe, supportive space where they can share experiences and mental health challenges with others who understand. It promotes resilience, reduces isolation, and provides emotional tools to help them thrive both on and off the job.

    Redline Rescue is a non-profit, operated by UCF Restores, dedicated to the mission of serving first responders and their families in times of need by connecting them to culturally competent clinicians, peer support providers and chaplains.

    Email a Fire Peer Support Team member below to connect!

    Glenn Mackie

    Glenn Mackie

    24 years with Pompano Beach Fire Rescue, proud husband and dad of two, sports fan, and dog lover.

    Email Glenn
    Theresa Mackie & BB

    Theresa Mackie & BB

    Peer Support, Mental Health, Suicide Awareness. BB is a Certified Therapy and Crisis Response Dog

    Email Theresa
    Jesselynn Rodriguez

    Jesselynn Rodriguez

    Passionate about helping others in critical moments. Enjoys staying active, traveling, and spending time with loved ones.

    Email Jesselynn
    Kerlew Levasseur

    Kerlew Levasseur

    Family Therapy, Mental Health Counseling, CISM & Trauma Focused Therapy

    Email Kerlew

    Meet Pompano Beach Fire Rescue Therapy K9- BB

    BB joined the Pompano Beach Peer Support Team in December 2020. His Handler is Theresa Mackie. BB is a registered Certified Therapy Dog as well an AKC Urban Good Citizen. BB visits first responders during stressful situations spreading happiness and smiles. When BB is not on duty, he loves cuddles on the couch and chasing iguanas out of his mom's garden.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    The Peer Support Program is a confidential resource designed to provide employees with emotional support, encouragement, and connection through trained peers who understand workplace stress and life challenges.
    Any employee may access Peer Support services, regardless of position, department, or years of service.
    Peer Support can assist with stress, anxiety, burnout, grief, relationship concerns, work-related challenges, traumatic incidents, family issues, substance use concerns, and general emotional support.
    No. Peer Support is not professional counseling or therapy. Peer supporters are trained employees who provide support, listening, encouragement, and guidance to resources when needed.
    Peer Support offers connection with trained coworkers who understand workplace culture and experiences. EAP services are provided by licensed professionals who offer counseling and clinical support.
    Yes. Conversations with Peer Support are kept confidential except in situations involving safety concerns, threats of harm, or situations required by law or policy to be reported.
    No. Supervisors are not notified when employees voluntarily contact Peer Support unless the employee requests involvement or there is a safety concern requiring action.
    Employees can contact the Peer Support Team through phone, email listed on the website, and designated peer supporters.
    Peer Support may offer after-hours support or provide guidance on emergency and crisis resources.
    Yes. Employees may request a specific peer supporter whenever possible.
    Yes. Supervisors may encourage or refer employees to Peer Support as a wellness resource.
    Yes, family members may receive support, referrals, or resource information.
    If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or thoughts of self-harm, contact 911, call or text 988, or seek immediate emergency assistance. Peer Support is not a substitute for emergency services.
    Yes. Peer supporters may provide emotional support, defusing, wellness check-ins, and connection to additional resources following critical incidents.
    Yes. Peer Support can provide support, encouragement, and referrals to treatment or recovery resources.
    No. Voluntarily seeking Peer Support does not negatively impact employment status, evaluations, or promotional opportunities.
    Peer supporters are trained employees selected for their professionalism, empathy, communication skills, and commitment to supporting coworkers.
    Peer supporters receive specialized training in active listening, crisis response, confidentiality, communication, wellness, and referral procedures.
    Yes. Participation in Peer Support services is completely voluntary.
    Yes. Peer supporters can connect employees with resources such as EAP services, mental health providers, crisis services, wellness programs, and community support organizations.
    Employees can be nominated by fellow employees. Nominations can be sent to Nina.taxis@copbfl.com. Nominated employees will be contacted to see if there is interest. If so, nominated employees will undergo Peer Support Training.