Designed from the ground up with fire fighters in mind, the Center sits on a 15-acre campus and includes a state-of-the-art gym and other features that encourage physical activity to help in recovery and preparing to return to the job. Located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, just outside Washington, D.C., the IAFF Center is surrounded by lush pine forest and features onsite areas for reflection and enjoying nature's healing powers.
The IAFF Center is overseen by Craig L. Katz, M.D., who designed a program for first responders in the aftermath of 9/11, and Abby Morris, M.D., an expert in the behavioral healthcare field. We understand the rigors of your job, and know what it takes to help. The only choice for IAFF members struggling with PTSD or Substance problems is The IAFF Center of Excellence.
The IAFF Center is overseen by Craig L. Katz, M.D., who designed a program for first responders in the aftermath of 9/11, and Abby Morris, M.D., an expert in the behavioral healthcare field. We understand the rigors of your job, and know what it takes to help. The only choice for IAFF members struggling with PTSD or Substance problems is The IAFF Center of Excellence.
Services
We want you to feel at home at the IAFF Center for Excellence. That's why we designed it with the firehouse in mind, to make treatment as comfortable as possible. You'll find familiar touches throughout the common areas and residences. Our 15-acre facility, located just outside Washington, DC, in Upper Marlboro, Maryland is furnished with comfortable residential accommodations and more than 60 beds.
At the IAFF Center of Excellence, it's our goal to deliver the highest quality of treatment possible. That's why we've chosen senior staff with extensive experience and a commitment to care. During your treatment, you'll form relationships with compassionate doctors, nurses and other clinicians who can help you on your way to recovery.
Any time, day or night, we're here for you. Behavioral care treatment isn't a one-size-fits-all proposition. At the IAFF Center for Excellence, we're uniquely attuned to the challenges you face as you deal with the rigors of the job. At the IAFF Center for Excellence, we treat the whole person from the inside out.
The IAFF Center of Excellence is located within driving distance of the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Dulles International Airport, and BWI Marshall Airport. Wherever you're coming from, our staff will provide transportation from all local train stations, bus stations and airports. Admissions counselors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to answer any of your questions or start the enrollment process.
Myrrhanda graduated from the University of Florida with a bachelor's degree in telecommunications with a double minor in non-profit. Kelly is a community outreach director for the IAFF Center of Excellence. She spends about 250 days a year traveling the U.S. and Canada educating members on the prioritization of behavioral health issues and services available to them through the Center of Excellence.
Reviews (10)
Russ Campbell
Feb 03, 2022
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The COE is amazing, from the first minute you get there and are greeted by Mrs Vonny who makes you feel welcome and puts a smile on your face everyday. To all of the Clinitions, all of the staff and all of the other Firefighters, they all make you feel welcome and special. I can not thank them enough for helping me get my life back. Mark, April, Alannah, Remi, Tawaka, Kevin, Bijone, and all of BTH.
J. Tucker
Jan 25, 2022
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Jason Rouse
Jan 18, 2022
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I went in a broken man. Depressed, served divorce papers, family in ruins and drinking way too much. This place, and all of the staff there, turned that around. I came out of there with a new look on life. I’m no longer depressed, divorce on hold, no drinking, but most of all, family life is turning around. The entire staff there is top notch. The lifelong friendship that gets established between members is priceless. The amazing amount of support is unbelievable. I cannot emphasize enough this incredible resource that is available to IAFF members. If you need help, call the COE. You won’t
Jesse Arjes
Jan 08, 2022
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Firefighter First
Dec 29, 2021
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Went to the COE lost, hurting, and searching for my identity. I hid what was going on with internally from my friends and family as long I could. It worked until it didn’t. So I reached out to the center and they did not hesitate to get me in. Best decision I ever made regarding my life. The tools and things I learned there will help me for years to come. The staff is very knowledgeable and helpful. The brotherhood between the firefighters there is unmatched. There is definitely something magical at the COE.
Kenneth Martin
Nov 21, 2021
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The Center of Excellence help me find life again. This place is uniquely its ability to provide a space for fire fighters to safely work through any traumatic events or substance abuse struggles that may be affecting the lives. The things that I’ve learned here will continue to help maintain mental health and live life fully. It exceeded my expectations and I will forever be grateful to have had the opportunity to begin my healing here.
Paul Rank
Nov 17, 2021
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The IAFF Center of Excellence saved my life. The clinicians and staff truly care for the firefighters, Paramedics, and EMT’s rehabilitating at the facility. They treat patients with dignity and respect and are as accommodating as can be in a residential treatment facility. Rehabilitation alongside other IAFF members creates a bond among patients that speaks to the life of the brotherhood of the fire service. IAFF members looking to rehab there should consider bringing their own bedding and towels. Bedding and towels are provided but more comfortable provisions for a long-term stay are recommended
Brandon Allen
Oct 12, 2021
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The IAFF Center of Excellence is a magical place to say the least. The process is not easy for anyone, but do not be discouraged for the outcome is life changing in the most beneficial way possible. There is no where else in the world that saves the lives of Fire and EMS personnel as the IAFF Center of Excellence does. The Center allows you the opportunity to change your mind, only if you are willing to change. If you have the will power you will better yourself, mentally, and spiritually, Finding serenity, and living a healthy life in happiness. I did and I will be forever grateful.
Jason England
Sep 29, 2021
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I suffered a severe back injury in the line of duty as a firefighter/paramedic in 2003. Years later I had to leave medically and then became addicted to opioid pain medication as a result of many surgical procedures. I was then Diagnosed with complex PTSD that I was unknowingly self medicating. This had led to 10 years of chronic homelessness I became suicidal even attempted. Through the grace of God I found the IAFF COE. I am now under the proper medical care with controlled pain and no longer homeless or suicidal. I can not pick one individual to thank for this. The level of care and compassion
Rocco Tocci
Aug 03, 2021
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Go to S.A.W. (Save A Warrior)
I was very disappointed at the lack of pride and cleanliness of the IAFF COE facility. It felt very run down and disheveled. I felt the facility was more insurance driven than patient oriented. The IAFF has no influence at the COE and very little to do with the facility other than some stickers on the walls.
The facility was understaffed and had high employee turnover in the 40 days I was there. I can't say I blame employees for not wanting to stay.
It seemed a large number of therapists didn't want to work. Instructors wouldn't show up to classes (especially in
I was very disappointed at the lack of pride and cleanliness of the IAFF COE facility. It felt very run down and disheveled. I felt the facility was more insurance driven than patient oriented. The IAFF has no influence at the COE and very little to do with the facility other than some stickers on the walls.
The facility was understaffed and had high employee turnover in the 40 days I was there. I can't say I blame employees for not wanting to stay.
It seemed a large number of therapists didn't want to work. Instructors wouldn't show up to classes (especially in
